Why Do Bully Sticks Turn White? Let’s Find Out!

Are your dogs bully sticks suddenly turning white? There are many things to speculate about when this happens. You may want to know whether it’s a sign of spoilage or degradation.

According to the American Kennel Club, bully sticks are great treats that are easily digestible and often turn white after a short period of time. So, why do bully sticks turn white?

Bully sticks turn white when they mix with dog saliva hence undergoing oxidation. As defined by Libre Texts Chemistry, oxidation is a chemical process that leads to loss of hydrogen when oxygen from he atmosphere is added to a substance.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the science behind why bully sticks turn white, debunk some common misconceptions, and discuss whether or not it’s safe for your dog to continue chewing on them.

So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s get to the bottom of this mystery!

Why Do Bully Sticks Turn White?

Bully sticks turn white as they are being chewed due to oxidation process which happens when the wet bully stick mixes with oxygen readily available in the air.

In addition, this discoloration is a natural occurrence and is caused by the removal of moisture and fat from the bully stick during the drying process.

When bully sticks are first made, they are a dark brown color and have a slightly greasy texture due to the fat content. As a dog chews on the stick, the moisture and fat are gradually removed, causing the stick to dry out and become lighter in color.

This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the size of the stick and the strength of the dog’s chew.

The white color of a bully stick does not indicate that it is spoiled or unsafe for a dog to consume. In fact, many dog owners prefer white bully sticks because they are less messy and easier to clean up after a dog has finished chewing on them.

It is worth noting that some manufacturers may add bleaching agents to their bully sticks in order to make them appear whiter.

As such, it is important to choose a reputable brand of bully sticks and to read the label carefully to ensure that no harmful chemicals have been added to the product.

When Should You Throw Away a Bully Stick?

You should throw away bully sticks when they start developing a sour smell and turning white.

A survey by National Center for Biotechnology Information on people’s opinions on bully sticks concluded that they often get bacterial contamination and start producing a bad odor hence the need to dispose of them as early as possible.

If your dog is young and has strong teeth, you may be able to give them a bully stick that has been chewed on for several hours. However, if your dog is older or has dental problems, you may need to discard the bully stick after only a few minutes of chewing.

The condition of the bully stick is also an important factor to consider. If the stick becomes wet, slimy, or moldy, it should be thrown away immediately.

Additionally, if the bully stick becomes too small or broken into small pieces, it may pose a choking hazard and should be discarded.

Finally, your own personal preferences may influence when you choose to throw away a bully stick.

Some people prefer to give their dogs fresh, new bully sticks each time, while others are comfortable letting their dogs chew on the same stick for several days.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to throw away a bully stick.

Here’s a useful article you may want to read; How Long Do Bully Sticks Last??

However, by considering your dog’s age and health, the condition of the stick, and your own preferences, you can make an informed decision about when it’s time to replace your dog’s chew.

Do Bully Sticks Go Bad?

The shelf life of bully sticks can vary depending on several factors, including how they are stored and the quality of the product. When exposed to air and moisture, bully sticks can become rancid and develop a foul odor.

This can also happen if the product is stored in a warm or humid environment, which can accelerate the breakdown of the fats in the treat.

Bully sticks, also known as pizzle sticks, are a popular dog treat made from the penis of a bull or steer. They are a great source of protein and help to clean dogs’ teeth and promote healthy chewing habits.

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

To prevent bully sticks from going bad, it is important to store them properly. They should be kept in a cool, dry place, ideally in an airtight container.

Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in a humid area, such as a bathroom or laundry room. It is also important to check the expiration date or use-by date on the package before giving the treat to your dog.

If you notice that your bully sticks have a foul odor or appear discolored or slimy, it is best to discard them.

Eating spoiled food can make your dog sick and may even lead to serious health problems. Always err on the side of caution and dispose of any treats that seem questionable.

Also, read; Do Bully Sticks Go Bad?

Are Bully Sticks Supposed to Turn White?

Yes, bully sticks are supposed to turn white as they are chewed on by dogs.

Bully sticks are made from the dried penis of a bull or steer, and they are a popular treat for dogs because they are long-lasting and satisfy a dog’s natural instinct to chew.

When dogs chew on bully sticks, the saliva and enzymes in their mouths break down the protein in the stick, causing it to soften and become lighter in color.

The process of the bully stick turning white is known as “sweating” or “greasing.”

It occurs when the natural oils and fats in the bully stick are released as it is chewed on. The oils and fats seep to the surface of the stick, giving it a white, greasy appearance.

It is important to note that while the color change of the bully stick is normal and expected, pet owners should still monitor their dog’s chewing behavior to ensure that they are not consuming the stick too quickly or swallowing large pieces.

Bully sticks can be a choking hazard or cause digestive issues if ingested in large quantities.

How To Clean Bully Stick

Bully sticks, which are popular dog treats made from the pizzle (penis) of a bull, tend to accumulate saliva and dirt during chewing sessions, making them unhygienic and potentially harmful to your furry friend’s health.

To ensure that your dog’s bully sticks remain clean and safe to consume, it is essential to clean them thoroughly.

One of the most effective ways to clean bully sticks is to use water. Simply rinse the stick under running water for a few seconds, gently scrubbing it with your fingers to remove any visible dirt or debris.

You can also submerge the stick in a bowl of water and let it soak for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

If you prefer to use warm soapy water, that’s fine too. However, it’s important to choose a mild, unscented soap that won’t irritate your dog’s skin or upset their stomach if they accidentally ingest some of it.

To clean the bully stick, lather it up with the soap and warm water, and scrub it gently with your fingers. Rinse the stick thoroughly under running water to remove all traces of soap.

Do Bully Sticks Grow Bacteria?

Yes, bully sticks can potentially carry bacteria that can cause your dog to fall ill.

Bully sticks are a popular dog treat, but they can pose health risks to your furry friend if not handled and stored properly.

While they may have a long shelf life of up to two years from their production date, it’s important to note that these chewy sticks can harbor harmful bacteria that may lead to illness in dogs.

Bacteria can quickly grow on bully sticks if they are not stored in the right conditions. Factors such as air, humidity, and pests can accelerate the decaying process, leading to increased bacterial growth.

It’s important to ensure that bully sticks are kept in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and insects.

In addition to proper storage, pet owners should also consider the source of the bully sticks they purchase. It’s best to buy from reputable manufacturers who follow strict quality control measures to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination.

By taking these precautions, pet owners can provide their dogs with safe and enjoyable bully sticks without compromising their health.

The Wrap-Up

Bovine pizzles are a type of dog treat made entirely from beef, and they are considered an excellent snack for your furry friend. Many dog breeds can benefit from this tasty treat.

Bovine pizzles can help improve your dog’s dental health by reinforcing their jaw muscles. They can also teach puppies how to chew correctly, making them an excellent choice for training.

It is essential to select the right type of bovine pizzles for your dog, as the harder ones may harm their teeth and gums.

Nonetheless, bovine pizzles offer many advantages and are an affordable snack to include in your dog’s diet. So, incorporating them into their daily routine won’t be too heavy on your wallet.