Do Bully Sticks Go Bad? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably heard of bully sticks. These chew treats are a popular choice for many pet owners because they’re long-lasting and don’t splinter like other types of chews.

However, you may be wondering; do bully sticks go bad?

Yes, bully sticks can go bad, and it’s important to know how to properly store and handle them to ensure your dog’s safety.

Bully sticks have a shelf life of about two years, but this can vary depending on how they’re stored and handled. If they’re not stored properly, or if they’ve been handled by many different animals, their lifespan may be shorter.

Signs that your bully stick has gone bad include changes in smell or texture. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to throw the bully stick away immediately to prevent your dog from getting sick.

In this article, we’ll explore the topic of bully sticks going bad in more detail. We’ll look at how to properly store and handle bully sticks, how to tell if a bully stick has gone bad, and what to do if your dog gets sick from eating a bad bully stick.

Do Bully Sticks Expire?

Yes. Bully sticks expire after the specified duration by the manufacturer elapses.

These chew treats are a popular choice for many pet parents due to their long-lasting nature and the dental benefits they offer.

However, like any other animal food product, bully sticks can go bad over time.

How Long Do Bully Sticks Last?

Bully sticks can last for several months, up to six months, when stored properly in a cool, dry place.

It’s important to pay attention to the packaging and expiration date when buying bully sticks, especially in stores.

If you have a bunch of sticks, it’s best to store them away in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A pantry closet is an ideal place to store them.

However, we recommend using them within three to four months for optimal freshness. After this time, the sticks may start to dry out and become less palatable for your dog.

Additionally, bully sticks that are stored improperly or for too long may develop mold or bacteria, which can make your dog sick.

Also read; How Long Do Bully Sticks Last?

What Happens When Bully Sticks Expire?

When bully sticks expire, they may start to develop a rancid smell, which is a sign that they’re no longer fresh.

Additionally, the sticks may become discolored or develop mold, which can be harmful to your dog’s health. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw the sticks away and not give them to your dog.

Expired bully sticks can also pose a choking hazard for your dog. As the sticks dry out, they become more brittle and can break apart easily, which can lead to your dog choking on small pieces.

To avoid this risk, it’s best to dispose of any bully sticks that have expired or that you suspect may be past their prime.

How Can You Tell If a Bully Stick Is Bad?

If you are wondering whether your dog’s bully stick has gone bad, there are a few things you should look out for.

Here are some signs that your bully stick may have gone bad:

1. Foul odor: If the bully stick has a strong, unpleasant smell, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
2. Discoloration: If the bully stick has changed color, such as turning yellow or green, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
3. Mold or fungus: If you notice any mold or fungus growing on the bully stick, it has definitely gone bad and should not be given to your pet.
4. Soft or slimy texture: If the bully stick feels soft or slimy to the touch, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
5. Expiration date: If the bully stick has expired, it should not be given to your pet.

It’s important to always check the bully stick for any signs of spoilage before giving it to your pet to ensure their safety and well-being.

When Should You Throw Out a Bully Stick?

If your bully stick smells bad, looks moldy, or feels slimy, it is time to throw it away. These are signs that the stick has gone bad and may be harmful to your dog’s health.

Additionally, if the bully stick is hard or brittle, it could splinter and cause an intestinal blockage, which is a serious health risk for your dog.

It is important to note that bully sticks are made from natural ingredients and do not contain any preservatives.

This means that they have a shorter shelf life than other dog treats and can go bad if not stored properly or used within a certain timeframe.

When you purchase a pack of bully sticks, be sure to check the expiration date and use them before that date.

Additionally, store them in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth and bacterial contamination. You can also keep them in the refrigerator or freezer to extend their shelf life.

It’s important to monitor your dog’s bully stick and check for any signs of spoilage. By doing so, you can ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy while enjoying this tasty treat.

How Long Does It Take to Digest a Bully Stick

On average, it takes about three hours for a bully stick to be fully digested in your dog’s stomach. However, the exact time can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the bully stick, the size of your dog, and their digestive system.

It’s essential to keep an eye on your dog while they are chewing on a bully stick to prevent them from ingesting huge chunks that might take longer to digest.

If your dog has a history of digestive issues, you may want to limit their intake of bully sticks or opt for smaller sizes that will be easier for them to digest.

If your dog swallows a large piece of a bully stick, it can cause an obstruction in their digestive system, leading to serious health problems.

Therefore, it’s crucial to supervise your dog while they are chewing on a bully stick and take it away immediately if you notice them starting to swallow it or if they start to choke on it.

It’s also important to note that bully sticks can stay fresh for up to three years, making them a long-lasting treat for your furry friend.

However, it’s crucial to store them properly in a cool, dry place to prevent them from going bad or attracting insects.

Bully sticks are a great treat for your dog, but it’s essential to monitor their chewing and digestion to ensure their safety and well-being.

How To Refresh Bully Sticks?

If your dog has lost interest in their bully stick, you may be wondering if there’s a way to revive it.

While there’s no guaranteed method to refresh a bully stick, there are a few things you can try:

1. Soak the bully stick in warm water for 30 minutes to an hour. This can help soften the stick and make it more appealing to your dog.
2. Microwave the bully stick for 30 seconds to one minute. This can help release some of the oils in the stick, making it more aromatic and enticing to your dog.
3. Sprinkle some cinnamon or turmeric powder on the bully stick. These spices are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help freshen up the stick’s scent.
4. Cut the bully stick into smaller pieces. Your dog may be more interested in a smaller piece that they can finish quickly.

Keep in mind that these methods may not work for every dog or every bully stick. It’s also important to monitor your dog while they’re chewing on a bully stick to ensure they don’t choke or swallow any large pieces.

While it’s always best to provide your dog with fresh, new treats, these methods can help extend the life of a bully stick and keep your dog interested in their chew.

Why Do Bully Sticks Smell So Bad?

One reason is that they are made from animal parts, which naturally have a strong odor. Additionally, bully sticks are typically dried, which can concentrate the smell.

Even odor-free bully sticks can have a slight smell, but it is much less intense than regular bully sticks.

Another reason for the smell is that some bully sticks are not cooked or dried properly. If they are not fully dried, they can become contaminated with bacteria and begin to decay, which can cause an unpleasant odor.

It is important to choose high-quality bully sticks from reputable sources to ensure that they are properly prepared. Finally, the smell of bully sticks can also depend on the individual dog’s sense of smell.

Some dogs may be more sensitive to the odor than others, and some may not be bothered by it at all. If you find the smell of bully sticks too strong, you can try odor-free options or other types of dog chews.

How to Store Bully Sticks

If you’re a dog owner, you know that bully sticks are a great treat for your furry friend. But, like any other food item, they can go bad if not stored properly.

Here are some tips on how to store bully sticks to keep them fresh and safe for your dog to enjoy:

1. Keep them at room temperature or in a cool, dry place. This will help maintain their freshness for up to 2 years or more, depending on the quality of the bully sticks you’ve purchased.
2. Choose a high-quality brand when purchasing bully sticks to ensure they maintain their freshness for a longer period of time.
3. Store them in an airtight container. This will help keep them fresh and prevent any odors from escaping. No more stinky kitchens or closets!
4. Keep them out of reach of children and pets. Bully sticks can be a choking hazard if swallowed whole.

By following these simple storage tips, you can ensure that your dog’s bully sticks stay fresh and safe for them to enjoy.

Remember to always check the expiration date and quality of the bully sticks before giving them to your dog.

Do Bully Sticks Cause Diarrhea?

Yes, bully sticks can cause diarrhea since they are high in protein and fat. So, overfeeding can cause digestive upset, including diarrhea.

If your dog eats too much of a bully stick, it can lead to an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.

However, not all dogs will experience diarrhea after eating bully sticks. Some dogs have a sensitive stomach and may be more prone to digestive issues.

If your dog has a history of digestive problems, it’s best to introduce bully sticks slowly and in small amounts.

If you notice that your dog has diarrhea after eating a bully stick, it’s important to monitor their symptoms. If the diarrhea persists for more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting or lethargy, it’s best to contact your veterinarian for advice.

To prevent diarrhea from bully sticks, make sure to choose high-quality, all-natural bully sticks that are free from additives and preservatives.

You should also supervise your dog while they are chewing on a bully stick to prevent overeating and choking hazards.

The Wrap-Up

Now that you know the answer to the question “Do bully sticks go bad?”, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to give them to your dog.

Remember that bully sticks have a shelf life of about two years, but this can vary depending on how they are stored and handled. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it’s best to throw the bully stick away.

When choosing bully sticks for your dog, make sure to read the label carefully and look for high-quality, all-natural products. Avoid bully sticks that have been treated with chemicals or preservatives, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Therefore, bully sticks can be a great treat for your dog, but it’s important to be aware of their potential risks and limitations.

By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your dog stays happy and healthy while enjoying this tasty snack.