Bully sticks are among the most loved toy/treats among many dogs, and they are tasty and tend to keep your dog entertained for quite some time. However, have you noticed that your dog’s bully stick has been turning white while they chew on it?
Do not fret because this is entirely normal. If you want to know why your dog’s bully stick turns white and its implications, keep reading.
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Why Do Bully Sticks Turn White?
When dogs chew on bully sticks, they tend to get their saliva all over them. The mixture of the bully stick and dog saliva results in the bully stick dissolving (and turning white) so that your dog can more easily digest it. This prevents your dog from choking on the bully sticks.
Do Bully Sticks Carry Bacteria?
Yes, bully sticks can potentially carry bacteria that can cause your dog to fall ill. Bully sticks have a long shelf life, sometimes up to 2 years from their production date; however, bacteria can grow on them if they are not stored correctly. Air, humidity, and pests can speed up the decaying process by increasing bacterial growth.
How To Store Bully Sticks?
The best way to store bully sticks is in resealable bags or refrigerators. They can be kept in these airtight bags and stored in cool, dry places for optimum freshness. Avoid leaving bully sticks in the open as the odor will attract pests, whereas the humidity will create a breeding ground for bacteria. Store leftover sticks in the freezer to stop mold and bacteria growth.
When Should You Throw Away A Bully Stick?
Throw away a bully stick when it becomes soft. Moisture and humidity soften bully sticks, so throw them out when they stop being hard and chewable. Furthermore, it becomes hazardous once it’s small enough to be swallowed.
Why Does My Dog Cry When I Give Him A Bully Stick?
Two reasons, it is either too hard or harsh on the stomach. Some owners give their dogs bully ticks that are too big or hard, which can cause gum and teeth injuries to your dog. The wrong bully stick can cause upset stomachs, which may also get your dog to cry.
Are Bully Sticks Made Of Rawhide?
No, Bully sticks are different and not made from rawhide. Bully sticks are made from drained and dried bull genitalia, whereas rawhide is dried cattle meat. Both are easily digested due to being gentle on the stomach.
What Is The Difference Between Pizzle Sticks And Bully Sticks?
Pizzle sticks and bully sticks are synonymous. Both refer to the natural beef chew for dogs made from the dried beef penis, and the blood and urine are drained and then oven-dried before being sold to dog stores.
What To Do With Ends Of Bully Sticks?
Throw away the ends of bully sticks. These may be hazardous if your dog can fit them in their mouths, and they may choke on them if accidentally swallowed; thus should be kept away from your dogs and pups.
Do Bully Sticks Get Old?
Bully sticks do get old and need to be thrown away. Bully sticks are natural beef meat and thus should always be stored in a cool, dried place free from humidity, moisture, or pests. These can decrease the shelf life and cause a loss of freshness.
How To Refresh Bully Sticks?
Prevent bully sticks from being exposed to humidity to retain freshness. When bully sticks are stored in airtight containers or bags, they can last up to 2 years and will continue remaining fresh for as long as it is protected from moisture and pests. Putting it in the refrigerator is another way to increase shelf-life.
How To Clean Bully Stick?
Bully sticks get covered in saliva and dirt, so the best way to clean them is to use water. You can also use warm soapy water; however, if soap makes you uncomfortable, then opt for warm water and a dose of white vinegar and allow it to soak.
Conclusion
Bully sticks have 100% natural beef ingredients, making them a great treat. This can be fed to many breeds and benefits your dog greatly. Bully sticks help prevent dental issues by strengthening their jaws; for pups, it teaches them how to chew.
Make sure to choose the correct bully sticks, as hard ones can hurt your dog’s gums and teeth. Nonetheless, bully sticks are great treats with more benefits than negatives, and they are often affordable, so bringing them into their diet will not cost you too much.
