Collagen Sticks vs Bully Sticks: Which Is Better for Your Dog? (2026)

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

If you are looking for a natural, long-lasting chew for your dog, two options dominate the conversation: collagen sticks and bully sticks. Both are made from animal-sourced materials, both are fully digestible, and both provide extended chewing satisfaction that dogs love. But they are not the same product, and the differences between them matter more than you might think.

Walk into any pet store or browse Amazon’s chew section, and you will find both of these options prominently featured. Owners who are new to natural chews often assume they are interchangeable, but each one has a distinct nutritional profile, smell level, price point, and set of health benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your dog’s specific needs, your tolerance for odor, and what health benefits you prioritize.

In this comprehensive comparison, we break down everything you need to know about collagen sticks and bully sticks. By the end, you will know exactly which one is the better fit for your dog, or whether the smartest move is to use both.

What Are Collagen Sticks?  

Collagen sticks are made from the corium layer of beef or pork skin, which is the thick, collagen-rich inner layer that sits beneath the outer hide. This is fundamentally different from rawhide, which is made from the outer layer of skin. The corium layer is naturally high in collagen protein, which is the same structural protein found in joints, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue throughout the body.

How Collagen Sticks Are Made  

The manufacturing process for collagen sticks typically involves:

1. Sourcing: The corium layer is separated from the outer hide during leather processing.
2. Cleaning: The material is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
3. Rolling or braiding: The cleaned corium is shaped into sticks, rolls, or braided formats.
4. Drying: The shaped sticks are slowly dried at low temperatures to remove moisture and create a firm, chewable product.

The result is a hard, dense stick that softens gradually as the dog chews, eventually dissolving safely in the digestive system.

Nutritional Profile of Collagen Sticks  

Collagen sticks are primarily composed of collagen protein, a unique type of protein that is rich in the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids play important roles in:

• Joint health: Supporting cartilage, tendons, and ligaments
• Skin and coat: Maintaining skin elasticity and coat quality
• Gut lining: Supporting the integrity of the digestive tract
• Dental health: The chewing action scrapes teeth and massages gums

A typical 12-inch collagen stick contains approximately 50 to 80 calories, making them relatively low-calorie compared to bully sticks of similar size. They are also lower in fat, which can be important for dogs on weight management programs.

For a comprehensive roundup of the best collagen stick options, see our best collagen sticks for dogs guide.

What Are Bully Sticks?  

Bully sticks are made from beef pizzle, which is the muscle tissue of a bull’s reproductive organ. While the source material might sound unusual, bully sticks have been a staple in the dog treat industry for decades and are widely considered one of the most popular natural chews available.

How Bully Sticks Are Made  

The manufacturing process for bully sticks involves:

1. Sourcing: Beef pizzle is collected as a byproduct of the beef processing industry.
2. Cleaning: The raw material is cleaned thoroughly to remove any debris.
3. Shaping: The pizzle is stretched and shaped into sticks of various lengths and thicknesses.
4. Drying: Sticks are either air-dried, baked, or smoked at various temperatures. The drying method significantly affects the final smell, with lower-temperature methods generally producing less odor.

The end product is a dense, protein-rich stick that dogs find incredibly appealing due to its intense flavor and aroma.

Nutritional Profile of Bully Sticks  

Bully sticks are exceptionally high in protein and moderate in fat. A typical 6-inch bully stick contains approximately 88 to 130 calories, with roughly 80 to 90 percent of those calories coming from protein and the remainder from fat. Key nutritional characteristics include:

• High protein content: Bully sticks are one of the most protein-dense treats available, typically containing 80 percent or more protein by dry weight.
• Single ingredient: A quality bully stick contains nothing but dried beef pizzle, making it a true single-ingredient product.
• Essential amino acids: Rich in the amino acids that support muscle maintenance and overall health.
• No carbohydrates: Bully sticks contain virtually zero carbohydrates.

Head-to-Head Comparison  

Here is a direct comparison of the two chew types across the most important factors.

When to Choose Collagen Sticks  

Collagen sticks are the better choice in several specific scenarios. Consider collagen sticks if any of the following apply to your dog or your household.

Your Dog Has Joint Issues  

If your dog suffers from arthritis, hip dysplasia, or any joint condition, collagen sticks provide a natural source of collagen protein that may support joint health. While they should not replace prescribed joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, they offer supplemental collagen intake in a format your dog enjoys. The amino acids glycine and proline found in collagen are building blocks for cartilage and connective tissue.

You Are Calorie Conscious  

Collagen sticks contain roughly half the calories of a comparably sized bully stick. For dogs on weight management plans, senior dogs with lower calorie needs, or smaller dogs where every calorie counts, collagen sticks let you provide a satisfying chew without the caloric load. This can be a significant advantage if your dog gets a chew every day.

You Are Odor Sensitive  

This is a big one for many households. Collagen sticks have a noticeably milder smell than bully sticks, both before and during chewing. If you live in a small apartment, have guests frequently, or simply do not enjoy the strong odor that bully sticks produce, collagen sticks are the more nose-friendly option. The difference is not subtle since many owners describe bully sticks as having a strong barnyard smell, while collagen sticks are relatively neutral.

You Want to Support Skin and Coat Health  

The collagen protein in these sticks supports skin elasticity and coat quality. Dogs with dry, flaky skin or dull coats may benefit from the additional collagen in their diet, though results vary and collagen sticks should not be considered a treatment for skin conditions.

You Have Multiple Dogs  

The lower cost per stick makes collagen sticks more budget-friendly when you are buying for multiple dogs. If you have three or four dogs and want to provide a daily chew, the price difference between collagen sticks and bully sticks adds up significantly over time.

When to Choose Bully Sticks  

Bully sticks have their own set of advantages that make them the superior choice in certain situations.

Your Dog Needs High Protein  

For active dogs, working dogs, or dogs who need to maintain muscle mass, bully sticks deliver a concentrated dose of complete protein. The amino acid profile of bully sticks is more complete than collagen sticks, meaning they provide a broader range of the amino acids necessary for muscle repair and maintenance. This makes bully sticks a nutritionally superior option for dogs with high protein requirements.

You Value Single-Ingredient Purity  

While both collagen sticks and bully sticks can be single-ingredient products, bully sticks have a longer track record in this regard. A quality bully stick is simply dried beef pizzle with nothing added. Some collagen sticks may include small amounts of processing agents, though the best products are also truly single-ingredient. If ingredient purity is your top priority, bully sticks from a reputable brand like Best Bully Sticks or Pawstruck offer excellent transparency.

Your Dog Is an Aggressive Chewer  

Very aggressive chewers may get through collagen sticks faster than bully sticks of comparable size. Bully sticks, particularly thicker varieties, tend to have a denser, more resistant texture that stands up to serious jaw pressure. If your dog destroys most chews quickly, a thick bully stick may last longer than a collagen stick.

Your Dog Prefers Intense Flavors  

Bully sticks have a stronger, more pungent flavor and aroma than collagen sticks. For dogs who are picky or easily bored with milder treats, bully sticks provide a more intense sensory experience that tends to hold attention longer. This is particularly useful for dogs who need extended mental stimulation or enrichment.

Can You Give Both? The Rotation Strategy  

The short answer is yes, and many experienced dog owners do exactly that. Rotating between collagen sticks and bully sticks offers several advantages.

Nutritional Variety  

By alternating between the two, your dog gets the collagen protein benefits from one and the complete protein benefits from the other. This nutritional diversity mirrors the kind of varied diet that dogs would encounter in a more natural setting.

Cost Optimization  

Since collagen sticks are generally less expensive, you can use them as the everyday chew and save bully sticks for special occasions, weekends, or when you need to keep your dog occupied for longer periods. This balances cost with quality.

Chewing Texture Variation  

Each chew has a slightly different texture and chewing feel. Rotating between them keeps the experience fresh and interesting for your dog, reducing the likelihood of them losing interest in their chews.

Suggested Weekly Rotation  

A practical rotation schedule for most dogs might look like this:

• Monday/Wednesday/Friday: Collagen stick (lower calorie, joint support)
• Saturday: Bully stick (high protein, intense flavor for weekend treat)
• Tuesday/Thursday/Sunday: Rest days or alternative treats like dental chews or yak cheese chews

Adjust this schedule based on your dog’s calorie needs, chewing intensity, and your budget.

Featured Products  

Collagen Sticks We Recommend  

Pawstruck Collagen Sticks ($18-25)

Pawstruck Collagen Sticks are a top-rated option made from beef corium that is sourced responsibly and processed without harsh chemicals. Available in various sizes from 6 inches to 12 inches, these sticks provide a satisfying chew that most dogs enjoy for 20 to 60 minutes depending on size and chewing intensity. The mild odor and lower calorie count make them a practical everyday chew. They also support joint health through natural collagen protein content.

Pros:

• Responsibly sourced beef corium
• Available in multiple sizes
• Mild odor compared to bully sticks
• Lower calorie content
• Good value per stick

Cons:

• May not last as long as bully sticks for aggressive chewers
• Thickness can vary between batches

Bully Bunches Collagen Sticks ($30-40)

Bully Bunches Collagen Sticks are a premium option that emphasizes quality and consistency. Bully Bunches is known for rigorous sourcing standards and producing chews that are uniform in size and density. Their collagen sticks are thick, durable, and provide an extended chewing experience that competes with bully sticks in terms of longevity. The higher price reflects the premium sourcing and quality control.

Pros:

• Premium quality with consistent sizing
• Thick and durable
• Rigorous sourcing standards
• Long-lasting chew experience

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Limited size options compared to some competitors

Bully Sticks We Recommend  

Best Bully Sticks 6" ($25-35)

Best Bully Sticks 6" are the gold standard in the bully stick market. The brand is synonymous with quality, offering single-ingredient, free-range, grass-fed bully sticks that are slow-baked to minimize odor while preserving flavor. The 6-inch size is versatile, working well for medium to large dogs for moderate chewing sessions. Best Bully Sticks offers various thickness options, from standard to jumbo, allowing you to match the chew to your dog’s jaw strength.

Pros:

• Gold standard brand reputation
• Single ingredient, free-range, grass-fed
• Slow-baked to reduce odor
• Multiple thickness options available
• 6-inch size versatile for most dogs

Cons:

• Premium pricing
• 6-inch may be too short for very large dogs
• Even “odor-free” versions have some smell

Pawstruck Bully Sticks ($20-30)

Pawstruck Bully Sticks offer excellent quality at a more accessible price point than some premium competitors. Available in various lengths and thicknesses, Pawstruck bully sticks are made from free-range, grass-fed beef and are processed without any artificial additives or chemicals. They provide the high-protein, intense-flavor experience that dogs crave, with a price tag that makes regular use more feasible.

Pros:

• More affordable than premium competitors
• Free-range, grass-fed sourcing
• Available in various lengths and thicknesses
• No artificial additives
• Good balance of quality and value

Cons:

• Odor can be noticeable
• Consistency may vary slightly between batches
• Higher calorie content than collagen sticks

Frequently Asked Questions  

Are collagen sticks safer than bully sticks?  

Both collagen sticks and bully sticks are considered safe when used appropriately. Both are fully digestible, unlike rawhide, which can cause intestinal blockages. The main safety consideration for either product is choosing an appropriate size for your dog and supervising chewing sessions. Always remove a chew when it becomes small enough to swallow whole.

Do collagen sticks smell as bad as bully sticks?  

No. Collagen sticks have a significantly milder odor than bully sticks. While no animal-based chew is completely odorless, collagen sticks are much more tolerable for indoor use. If smell is a major concern for you, collagen sticks are the clear winner.

Can puppies have collagen sticks or bully sticks?  

Both can be appropriate for puppies, but with caveats. Wait until your puppy is at least 12 weeks old and has their initial set of teeth. Choose appropriately sized sticks (smaller and thinner for puppies) and always supervise chewing sessions closely. Very young puppies should stick to softer treats designed specifically for their age. For more puppy treat options, see our best puppy treats for training guide.

How many collagen sticks or bully sticks can I give my dog per day?  

Most veterinarians recommend limiting chews to one per day and accounting for the calories in your dog’s daily food intake. For collagen sticks, one per day is generally fine for most adult dogs. For bully sticks, which are higher in calories, one per day is the maximum, and every other day may be more appropriate for less active or smaller dogs.

Do collagen sticks actually help with joint health?  

Collagen sticks provide collagen protein, which contains amino acids that are building blocks for joint cartilage and connective tissue. While they should not be considered a replacement for veterinary-prescribed joint supplements, they do provide supplemental collagen intake. The extent of their benefit for joint health has not been as extensively studied as dedicated joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Which lasts longer, a collagen stick or a bully stick?  

For most dogs, a bully stick of comparable size will last slightly longer than a collagen stick, especially for aggressive chewers. Bully sticks tend to be denser and more resistant to chewing. However, this varies significantly based on the specific product’s thickness and your individual dog’s chewing style. Some collagen sticks, particularly thicker or braided varieties, can match or exceed bully stick durability.

Are either of these products a substitute for rawhide?  

Both collagen sticks and bully sticks are excellent rawhide alternatives and are widely considered safer options. Unlike rawhide, both collagen sticks and bully sticks are fully digestible and do not swell in the stomach. Many veterinarians recommend switching from rawhide to either of these products for safer chewing enrichment.

Can dogs with food allergies eat collagen sticks or bully sticks?  

Both products are typically made from beef, so dogs with beef allergies should avoid them. For dogs with other food allergies, both collagen sticks and bully sticks are generally safe since they contain a single animal-source ingredient with no grains, dairy, or other common allergens. Always check the specific product label to confirm the protein source.

The Bottom Line  

The collagen sticks vs bully sticks debate does not have a single winner because the best choice depends on your priorities.

Choose collagen sticks if: You want a lower-calorie option, prefer less smell, want to support your dog’s joint health, or need to keep costs down for regular chewing. They are the practical, everyday chew that checks most boxes without breaking the bank or stinking up your living room.

Choose bully sticks if: You want maximum protein content, need a chew that lasts as long as possible for an aggressive chewer, or want the most intense flavor experience for a picky dog. They are the premium, high-impact chew that delivers unmatched protein and satisfaction.

Choose both if: You want to give your dog the benefits of each, keep things interesting through rotation, and optimize your budget by using collagen sticks more frequently with bully sticks as a special treat.

No matter which direction you go, both collagen sticks and bully sticks are outstanding natural chew options that are leagues better than rawhide. Your dog wins either way.