For aggressive chewers or dogs prone to boredom, longevity is the number one factor when choosing a treat. But a long-lasting chew is only worthwhile if it’s also safe and easily digestible.
We are diving deep into three of the most popular natural chews—Bully Sticks, Cow/Pig Ears, and Beef Cheek Rolls—to compare their chew time, safety, and overall value. Plus, we'll answer the golden question: What lasts longer than a bully stick?
Quick Comparison Chart: Longevity & Safety
Chew time can vary significantly based on the dog's chew strength and the chew's thickness (e.g., Jumbo vs. Standard). This chart reflects general performance for a strong, medium-to-large chewer.
| Chew Type | Average Longevity | Digestibility | Best For | Product Focus |
| Bully Sticks | Moderate (30–90 min) | Excellent | Daily use, all breeds, high protein. | Bully Sticks |
| Beef Cheek Rolls | Long (1–4 hours) | Very Good | Aggressive chewers, rawhide alternative. | Beef Cheek Rolls |
| Cow/Pig Ears | Short to Moderate (15–45 min) | Good | Calming, joint support, budget-friendly. | Cow Ears |
| Collagen Sticks | Moderate (45–60 min) | Excellent | Safe for seniors/puppies, joint support. | Collagen Sticks |
1. The Standard: Bully Sticks (High Value, High Digestibility)
Bully sticks are the benchmark for a reason. They are made from a single ingredient (100% beef pizzle) and are fully digestible, which is a key priority for veterinarians.
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Longevity Factors: Longevity depends entirely on size. Braided bully sticks (multiple pizzles twisted together) and Jumbo or Monster thick bully sticks last significantly longer than standard sticks, satisfying even the most aggressive chewers for over an hour.
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Safety Advantage: They soften as the dog chews, breaking down into small, digestible pieces, unlike rawhide.
Are bully sticks better than rawhide?
YES. Bully sticks are unequivocally better than traditional rawhide. Rawhide is chemically processed and is known to be a high risk for intestinal blockages because it does not easily break down in the stomach. Bully sticks, being 100% muscle tissue, are fully digestible and far safer.
2. The Challenger: Beef Cheek Rolls (The Rawhide Alternative)
Beef cheek rolls are gaining popularity precisely because they offer the longevity of rawhide without the processing or digestive risk. Made from the inner, fibrous cheek of the cow, they are a great long-lasting natural chew for aggressive chewers.
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Longevity Factors: Cheek rolls are dense and maintain their shape for a long time. They are often cited by owners as lasting the longest out of the soft-hide alternatives.
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Key Advantage: They wear down slowly and become soft and pliable, minimizing the risk of sharp edges or large swallowed pieces.
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Product Recommendation: Our Beef Cheek Rolls offer exceptional chew time for dogs that demolish standard sticks quickly.
3. The Joint Support: Cow & Pig Ears (The Quick Reward)
Cow and Pig Ears are highly palatable and are rich in natural glucosamine and chondroitin, making them excellent for joint health. However, they are typically the shortest-lasting chew on this list.
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Longevity Factors: Ears are mostly cartilage and fat, making them easier and quicker to consume. They are ideal for a 15–30 minute calming chew rather than an all-day distraction.
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Product Recommendation: Cow Ears are lower in fat than pig ears and are great for dogs who need to manage their weight but still deserve a rewarding chew.
What Lasts Longer Than a Bully Stick?
For a natural, digestible option, thick Beef Cheek Rolls and Braided Bully Sticks often surpass the chew time of a standard bully stick.
If you are seeking the absolute longest-lasting natural option (often vet recommended for extreme chewers):
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Himalayan Yak Chews: Made from dried yak and cow milk, these are extremely hard and soften only with saliva, often lasting for weeks.
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Antlers: Naturally shed antlers (elk or deer) are incredibly durable and can last months, but they come with a high risk of tooth fracture and are best avoided by aggressive, high-force biters.
We believe the balance of longevity, safety, and digestibility provided by Beef Cheek Rolls and Collagen Sticks makes them the best overall choice for routine chewing.
Need to Increase Longevity?
Use a bully stick holder! These devices secure the small end of the chew, preventing your dog from swallowing the last piece whole (a major choking hazard) and extending the life of the stick by allowing them to safely chew down to the very end.
The Long-Lasting Chew Power Pack
Find the perfect chew to match your dog's strength and digestive needs:
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Beef Cheek Rolls (The ultimate long-lasting rawhide alternative)
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Bully Sticks (The highly digestible, protein-packed classic)
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Beef Collagen Sticks (Long-lasting support for joints and digestion)