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With our guide to the best bully sticks for Akitas, you can give your pup a treat that will keep them happy and fulfilled while helping to clean their teeth.
Dogs don’t just love bully sticks for their meaty taste but also because chewing makes them happy! For some dogs, chewing is about more than delicious snacking and playing. Chewing bully sticks offers dogs a way to relieve stress without wreaking destruction on your home. And thanks to all that gnawing, you’ll find your dog’s teeth a little more sparkly and their breath fresher. So, bully sticks are a win for both you and your Akita.
That’s why we’ve gathered a list of the best bully sticks for Akitas that aren’t just a tasty treat. They’re also great for hearty chewing!
Healthy and Safe Bully Sticks for Akitas
The Best Bully Sticks for Akitas
#1 – Cadet Bully Sticks Dog Treats
Help fulfill your dog’s daily protein and chewing needs with Cadet Bully Stick Dog Treats, single-ingredient bully sticks made from 100% beef. Full of protein and natural flavor, these slow-roasted bully sticks are good for heavy chewers. They’re easy to digest and contain nothing artificial. And because they measure between 4 – 7 inches, they’re recommended for small and medium dogs of adult age.
Pros
- Made of 100% beef pizzle
- Long-lasting and ideal for oral care
- Good for heavy chewers
- High in protein, low in fat
- No artificial colors, flavors, or fillers
- Inspected in the USA, adhering to FDA guidelines
Cons
- Expensive
- It may be small for large dogs
#2 – Nature Gnaws Bully Sticks for Dogs
If your pup is a picky eater, Nature Gnaws Bully Sticks for Dogs provide a chewing solution! These 5 – 6-inch beef bully sticks are made from a single ingredient without the use of any preservatives or artificial flavorings, giving your dog the ultimate pleasure in chewing. And if your dog can gnaw through anything, they’ll find this bully stick for aggressive chewers a match for their chompers. Safe for all life stages, they’re great for teething puppies too. They contain globally sourced ingredients and are packaged in the USA.
Pros
- Single-ingredient and 100% natural
- Ideal for strong chewers
- Great for stress relief
- Perfect for teething puppies
- Rawhide free
- Small business, family-owned brand
- Available in three package sizes: 8-ounce, 1-pound, and 2-pound
Cons
- The reviews report inconsistency in size
#3 – I and love and you Free Ranger No Stink! Bully Stix
Can’t stand the nasty smell of bully sticks? I love and you, Free Ranger, No Stink! Natural Bully Stix promises less odor but great taste and a satisfying chew made from free-range Brazilian cattle that are grass-fed and raised without the use of antibiotics or added hormones. Free from all harmful ingredients and rich in protein, these sticks are highly beneficial for your dog’s dental hygiene and perfect for heavy chewers.
Pros
- Single-ingredient beef pizzle from Brazilian cattle
- No stinky odors!
- Free of fillers, grains, and artificial ingredients
- Makes teeth clean and healthy
- Suitable for dogs of all sizes
- 100% recyclable packaging
Cons
- Not as odorless as they say, but still less stinky
#4 – Nature Gnaws Braided Bully Sticks for Dogs
Nature Gnaws makes our list of the best bully sticks for dogs again with their Braided Bully Sticks for Dogs. The braided design offers a different chew experience while still delivering a quality single-ingredient bully stick your dog will love. And because Nature Gnaws adheres to a 5-step safety process that includes fresh raw material sourcing, irradiation, food-grade lab testing, hand packaging in the USA, and UV disinfection of their facility, you can expect a safe and quality product in every bag. Available in 12-inch and 6-inch options, these braided bully sticks are good for dogs of all ages and sizes.
Pros
- Braided design for something different
- Made with premium quality, all-natural beef
- Available in 6-inch and 12-inch sizes
- Delicious and lasting flavor
- Great alternative to chemically made rawhide
- Safe for all life stages
Cons
- May not stand up to strong chewers
#5 – GigaBite 6-Inch Slim Odor-Free Bully Sticks
Best Pet’s GigaBite 6 Inch Beef Gullet Jerky Sticks are bully sticks made from free-range Brazilian beef esophagus for a chewing stick with less odor. A single-ingredient flat jerky chew, they’re high in protein, low in fat, and contain no hormones, preservatives, or chemicals. Serve these bully chews as a whole stick or break-off pieces as a training aid. Plus, they’re easily digestible and help reduce tartar and plaque buildup. Available in 20-count or 40-count packages.
Pros
- 100% natural product that’s rich in protein
- Made from grass-fed Brazilian cattle
- No additives, hormones, or chemicals
- Prevents the buildup of plaque
- Dog-approved taste
- Affordable pricing
- Safe for puppies and adult dogs
Cons
- Pungent smell
- Stick sizes may vary
#6 – Raw Paws Thin Bully Sticks
If you’re introducing bully sticks to your dog for the first time or have a small dog, you need a pack of Raw Paws Thin Bully Sticks. They’re six-inch sticks of thin width that are great for small mouths whether they belong to puppies or small breed adults. A safer option than rawhide and artificial treats, Raw Paws bully sticks are made of single-ingredient, all-natural beef pizzle with no added hormones, preservatives, or steroids. These beef sticks are rich in protein and offer a taste dogs crave. They’re easy to chew and great for your dog’s teeth and gums. Moreover, they kill boredom and help relieve stress in your dog while keeping them occupied.
Pros
- 100% all-natural, grass-fed, free-range beef sticks
- Best for puppies and small dogs
- Great for teething
- Free from artificial ingredients, corn, and soy
- Highly digestible compared to rawhide
- Sourced only from sustainable and ethical farms
- Sold in half-pound value packs
Cons
- May not be suitable for large dogs
- Not for strong chewers
#7 – Chomp’ems Naturally Delicious Bully Sticks
If your dog gets bored easily and no toy can keep them interested, Chomp’ems Naturally Delicious Bully Sticks are just the solution you need for your pup. Containing one single and all-natural ingredient, these beef muscle sticks don’t contain any grains, gluten, or preservatives. They’re among the best bully sticks for strong chewers, offering a long-lasting and highly digestible alternative to rawhide. And Chomp’ems ensures quality and safety with USA lab testing.
Pros
- Single-ingredient beef muscle
- Great for aggressive chewers
- High in protein, low in fat
- Suitable for all life stages
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
- On the costly side
#8 – SmartBones SmartSticks
SmartBones SmartSticks are different than traditional bully sticks as they offer a chew stick made with real beef, chicken, and veggies, and enriched with vitamins and minerals. They’re made with a yummy vegetable-beef outside layer with chicken on the inside. That’s layers of flavor without any artificial preservatives!
Pros
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals
- Easily digestible; no rawhide
- Picky eater approved
- Help clean teeth
- Variety of flavor options
Cons
- Not a traditional single-ingredient bully stick
- For adult dogs only
#9 – Pet Factory Beefhide 7″ Braided Sticks
Super chewers, get ready because you’ve met your match with Pet Factory 100% Beefhide 7″ Braided Sticks! They’re proudly American-made and 100% natural rawhide sourced from American-raised, corn-fed cattle. And you’ll find they have less odor than beef muscle chew sticks. These hand-braided beef hide sticks have no fillers, grains, sugar, or preservatives. To mix up the taste for your dog, try the Peanut Butter flavor!
Pros
- Perfect for dogs who love to chew
- Encourage healthy gums and teeth
- All natural ingredients
- No mess, no smell
Cons
- Not suitable for small dogs
- May stain fabrics
Think of bully sticks as a dog’s candy, only healthier! With that idea in mind, coupled with the information above, we bet you’ve already got a choice or maybe two in mind for your dog. Make their chewing dreams come true and buy some of these best bully sticks for your Akita now!
What To Consider When Choosing Bully Sticks for Akitas
Size
Bully sticks come in a variety of sizes, and sometimes size does matter. But because bully stick makers understand that dogs come in all shapes and sizes, they make their sticks in varying lengths. Choose the right bully stick by shopping for your pup’s size.
Width
Usually, thicker bully sticks are better since they last longer and give a fun chewing experience for your dog. For larger and heavier dogs or dogs with an aggressive chewing style, a 12-inch stick may just be perfect. However, you may want to start with a thinner bully stick for smaller dogs to prevent choking.
Quality
Quality plays an important role in your pup’s treats and meals. Skip bully sticks that have preservatives or artificial ingredients in them. The point of a bully stick is to give your dog a single-ingredient treat that’s not been pumped full of fake additives. To ensure quality, only buy from trusted companies or take recommendations from your vet.
Shape
Usually, you’ll find bully sticks to be straight, and although an excellent option, you can also try different shapes like braided rings or curled sticks. They’re also fun to chew, and your dog may like them more than the straight ones. Try your dog out on different shapes to see which they like best.
Now, here’s our list of the best bully sticks for Akitas! Which one will be your furry friend’s favorite?
Frequently Asked Questions About Bully Sticks for Dogs
1. What are bully sticks made of?
Bully sticks are made from 100% beef pizzle (bull muscle). They’re single-ingredient, high-protein chews that are both digestible and natural — making them a safer alternative to rawhide.
2. Are bully sticks safe for Akitas?
Yes, bully sticks are generally safe for Akitas when given in moderation. Always supervise your dog while chewing to prevent choking, and choose the correct size stick for your dog’s powerful jaws.
3. How often can I give my Akita a bully stick?
You can give your Akita a bully stick two to three times a week. Daily chewing is fine for some dogs, but it’s best to balance it with other dental chews or toys to avoid excessive calorie intake.
4. What size bully stick is best for Akitas?
Since Akitas are large and strong chewers, opt for 12-inch thick bully sticks or jumbo-sized options. Smaller sticks may pose a choking hazard or be consumed too quickly.
5. Do bully sticks help clean my Akita’s teeth?
Yes. The natural chewing motion helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better dental hygiene and fresher breath.
6. Can bully sticks cause digestive issues?
While bully sticks are digestible, overeating can lead to mild stomach upset or diarrhea. Always introduce them slowly and provide plenty of water afterward.
7. Are odor-free bully sticks better?
Odor-free bully sticks are ideal for indoor use and sensitive owners. They go through an extra baking or drying process but retain the same nutrition as regular bully sticks.
8. How long should a bully stick last for an Akita?
For most Akitas, a single thick bully stick can last 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on their chewing strength. Heavier chewers may go through them faster.
9. Are bully sticks suitable for Akita puppies?
Yes — but only if they’re soft, thin, and supervised. Puppies have developing teeth, so choose smaller sticks and monitor chewing closely to prevent tooth damage.
10. How do I store bully sticks to keep them fresh?
Store bully sticks in an airtight container or ziplock bag in a cool, dry place. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate or freeze them.
11. Are there any bully stick alternatives for Akitas?
Yes. If your Akita doesn’t like bully sticks, try yak chews, beef tendons, or elk antlers — all durable and protein-rich options suitable for heavy chewers.
12. Can bully sticks help with my Akita’s anxiety?
Chewing naturally releases endorphins that calm dogs. Bully sticks can help reduce boredom and anxiety, especially when left alone.
13. How many calories are in a bully stick?
A typical 12-inch bully stick has around 100–150 calories. Adjust your Akita’s daily food intake accordingly to maintain a healthy weight.
14. Are all bully sticks the same quality?
No. Look for grass-fed, free-range beef bully sticks made without chemicals or preservatives. U.S.- or Canada-made options tend to have stricter safety standards.
15. How do I dispose of small bully stick pieces safely?
When your Akita chews the bully stick down to a small nub, take it away to avoid choking. You can use a bully stick holder to secure smaller pieces safely.
Smart Choices for Strong Chewers
Choosing the right bully sticks for your Akita isn’t just a treat; it’s an investment in their happiness and health. Big-chewer breeds like this need tough, digestible chews that satisfy their instincts while cleaning teeth and preventing destructive behavior. Opting for high-quality, single-ingredient sticks shows your pup they’re loved and supports peace of mind in your home. With the right choice, every chewy moment becomes a win: for your dog’s joy, your sanity, and a life full of tail wags.
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