The Shelf Life of Bully Sticks
Bully sticks are one of the most popular dog treats on the market, and for good reason! They're made from 100% beef, they're highly digestible, and dogs go crazy for them. But one question we get a lot is "do bully sticks go bad?" The answer is yes... sort of. Keep reading to learn more about the shelf life of bully sticks and how to tell if your pup's treat is past its prime.
Bully sticks are made from beef pizzle, which is the penis of a bull. They're slow-roasted to perfection, which brings out their natural flavor and aroma that dogs love. Because they're made from all-natural ingredients with no added preservatives, they can go bad if they're not stored properly.
The short answer is yes, bully sticks can go bad. But before you panic, it's important to understand that the process of spoilage is slow and gradual, so there's a good chance that your dog will finish the bully stick long before it has a chance to go bad.
That said, there are a few things you should look out for that could indicate that your bully stick has gone bad. First, take a close look at the color of the bully stick. If it's significantly darker or lighter than when you first bought it, that's a red flag. Second, give the bully stick a sniff. If it has an unpleasant odor, that's another sign that it's gone bad. Finally, if the texture of the bully stick has changed—if it's become hard and brittle, for example—that's a surefire sign that it's time to toss it and get your pup a new one.
Bully sticks can last several months- up to 6 months when stored properly in a cool, dry place. If you have a bunch of sticks is best to store them away in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight (a pantry closet is ideal). However, we recommend using them within 3 to 4 months for optimal freshness. When in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and get a new bully stick for your pup!
If you want your bully sticks to last even longer, you can freeze them. This is a great option if you have a lot of bully sticks and you want to make sure they don't go bad before your dog has a chance to eat them all. To freeze bully sticks, simply put them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to six months. When you're ready to give your dog a frozen bully stick, just let it thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes or so before giving it to them.
Bully sticks are a delicious and nutritious treat for dogs, but like all natural products, they can go bad if they're not stored properly. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, it's best to discard the bully stick and get a fresh one. With proper storage, bully sticks can last for 6 months—but we recommend using them within 3 to 4 months for optimal freshness. Check out our top picks for the best bully sticks on Amazon today- your pup will thank you for them!
