Bully sticks can last anywhere from several hours to several days of chewing time. For small dogs, a standard 6-inch bully stick typically provides several days of chewing across multiple sessions. Medium dogs usually work through the same stick in a few hours to a full day. Large dogs might finish a standard bully stick in one to two hours, though jumbo or braided options can extend this to several hours.
Of course, individual chewing habits vary. Aggressive chewers will finish their bully sticks faster than dogs who prefer to savor their treats. Your dog's specific chew time also depends on the thickness and length of the bully stick you choose. We also have a guide that breaks down the different bully stick sizes we offer, with the recommended size of dog for each. If you have concerns about appropriate chew times for your specific dog, consult your veterinarian.
Bully stick chew time varies from dog to dog. Factors like size, bite strength, and chewing habits all play a role … and knowing this makes it easier to plan when and how often to give them.
Here's what to expect:
Large breed dogs are powerful chewers who work through bully sticks quickly. A standard 6-inch bully stick might only last under an hour for a determined large dog. Jumbo or braided bully sticks work better for big breeds, potentially lasting several hours and providing a more satisfying chewing experience.
Medium-sized dogs typically get one to several hours of chewing from a thick bully stick. When determining how long a dog should chew on a bully stick, factors like chewing style and determination matter most, and regular-sized sticks usually fit medium dogs well.
Small breed dogs enjoy the longest chew times. A thin 6-inch bully stick can occupy a small dog for several days. Many small dogs chew in shorter sessions, putting the stick down and returning to it later, which makes bully sticks particularly economical for smaller breeds.
Want your dog's bully stick to last longer? Try these strategies:
Choose thicker varieties. Braided, jumbo, or extra-thick bully sticks provide more chewing resistance than standard options. The denser the stick, the longer your dog will work on it.
Freeze bully sticks before giving them to your dog. Freezing makes them harder and more challenging to chew through, significantly extending chew time. This works especially well during warm weather as a cooling treat.
Use a bully stick holder. These tools secure the stick and prevent your dog from getting optimal chewing angles, naturally slowing them down. Holders also prevent choking hazards by keeping the last few inches out of reach.
Time chew sessions and save portions for later. Recommendations around how long a dog should chew on a bully stick typically fall in the 30–45 minute range per session. This approach makes each stick last longer while preventing overconsumption.
Yes, but they have long shelf lives when stored properly.
Proper storage is essential. Keep bully sticks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Airtight containers or resealable bags help preserve their quality. Heat and humidity accelerate spoilage, so avoid storing them in garages, sheds, or anywhere with temperature swings.
Signs a bully stick has gone bad include unusual odors beyond the normal meaty smell, visible mold, or excessive moisture that makes the stick feel slimy. Fresh bully sticks have a mild, natural smell. Any sour or rancid odors mean the stick should be discarded.
Store partially chewed sticks properly between sessions. Place them in airtight bags or containers in a cool, dry location. Some pet parents refrigerate or freeze partially chewed sticks to maintain freshness and add extra chew time for the next session.
Have a large dog that quickly chews through treats? Try our jumbo-sized bully sticks. And for more options, shop our entire bully stick collection today.