7 Signs Your Dog Needs a Better Chew

Chewing is an essential part of a dog’s daily routine – it supports dental health, eases anxiety, and satisfies their instinctual need to gnaw. But not all chews are created equal. If your dog is destroying shoes, struggling with bad breath, or gulping down unsafe treats, it might be time for an upgrade. Here are 7 clear signs your dog deserves a higher-quality chew. 

1. A Better Chew Means Fewer Destroyed Shoes

If your dog is turning your shoes, baseboards, or furniture into a chew toy, it’s probably not just bad behavior; it’s a sign they need a more satisfying outlet. When a chew doesn’t match your dog’s chewing strength or instincts, they’ll look elsewhere (and it’s usually your stuff). High-quality chews like bully sticks, made from real meat, give dogs a safe, flavorful, and long-lasting option that keeps their jaws busy – and your home intact. 

2. Your Dog’s Breath Is a Warning Sign

Bad breath and visible plaque aren’t just gross; they’re signs that your dog’s current chew isn’t doing enough to support dental health. Many cheap chews leave sticky residues or contain sugars and artificial flavors that can actually contribute to dental problems. Bully sticks and other natural chews help scrape away plaque as your dog gnaws, promoting fresher breath and cleaner teeth with every bite.

3. Digestive Issues After Treat Time

If your dog has an upset stomach or soft stool after chewing, their treat might be the problem. Many commercial chews contain artificial preservatives, low-quality fillers like wheat flour or corn, or mystery-meat ingredients that are tough to digest. Natural, single-ingredient chews — like free-range bully sticks — are much gentler on the digestive system and better suited for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

4. They Finish Chews in Minutes 

Got a power chewer who blows through treats in record time? Some dogs need extra-durable chews to keep them satisfied and safe. If your dog is demolishing treats too quickly or swallowing large chunks, you risk everything from choking hazards to expensive vet visits. Bully sticks are available in various thicknesses and shapes designed to stand up to aggressive chewing, offering a safer, longer-lasting experience for even the most determined gnawers.

5. The Chew Breaks or Splinters Easily 

Some chews become dangerous as soon as your dog starts working on them. Low-quality rawhide or brittle bones can splinter or break into sharp pieces that cause choking or digestive blockages. High-quality chews, like those offered by Bully Sticks Direct, are tough enough to last but easily digestible. That balance of strength and safety is essential for peace of mind and your dog’s well-being.

6. Your Dog Turns Their Nose Up at Other Treats

Dogs know quality. If they’re refusing certain chews or losing interest quickly, it may be because the product lacks real flavor or natural ingredients. Bully sticks are single-ingredient chews made from real beef, with no artificial additives or unidentifiable fillers. They’re naturally flavorful and highly palatable, even for picky eaters.

7. Your Dog is Restless or Constantly Begging

If your dog seems anxious, constantly pacing, or always begging for attention, they may just need more mental stimulation. Chewing provides enrichment and helps dogs self-soothe, especially when they’re left alone. Long-lasting chews like bully sticks engage their brain and body, offering a calming, rewarding activity that satisfies their instincts and gives you a break, too.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Chew

Not all chews are created equal. Poorly made treats packed with artificial ingredients, fillers, and indigestible materials may be cheap up front — but they can lead to health issues, unwanted behavior, or costly vet visits down the road.

At Bully Sticks Direct, we focus on quality you can trust:

• Real, natural-ingredient chews made from high-quality protein sources 
• Naturally flavorful and fully digestible
• Available in multiple sizes and strengths for every breed
• Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

We even include a recommended dog size for each chew on our site, so you can shop with confidence. Whether your pup is a power chewer, a picky eater, or just needs something better to focus on, we’ve got a chew that fits.