Collagen stick for dogs: benefits, duration and how to choose it
Looking for an alternative to the bully stick or a new chew to introduce to your dog? Discover how to choose the format that suits it!
The collagen stick is a 100% natural chew, more durable than a bully stick, less greasy and easily digestible. Made from the inner layer of the skin, the dermis, it keeps your dog busy longer while staying gentle on digestion.
There are several collagen chew variants on the market, but Happy Chew beef collagen is recognized by our customers for its great resistance. Rolled very tightly, it has a dense texture that dogs who like to chew for a long time particularly appreciate.
Find the ideal collagen chew for your dog
| For which dog or need | Recommended collagen chew |
|---|---|
| For intense chewers | Monster collagen |
| To vary proteins | Water buffalo collagen |
| To vary textures | Braided collagen or ring |
| To try several products | Discovery box |
| For pickier dogs | Tripe-coated collagen or discovery box |
Chew stick or supplement: two different products
The word collagen covers two very different things. On one side, powder or liquid supplements designed to support joints. On the other, the collagen chew stick, a durable treat that keeps your dog busy. This article is about that chew stick, and it is what you find at Happy Chew.
What are the benefits of the collagen stick?
Collagen is a structural protein found in the skin, bones, tendons and cartilage. Our sticks are made from the inner layer of the skin, the dermis, naturally rich in collagen.
Day to day, the collagen stick brings three concrete things: a long-lasting chew that keeps your dog busy, a dense texture that contributes to dental hygiene through the mechanical action of chewing, and a low fat treat. It does not stick and does not crumble easily, which makes it a practical daily chew.
And joints, skin and coat?
Collagen can contribute to maintaining healthy joints, supple skin and a healthy, shiny coat.
Which collagen format lasts the longest?
The thicker and denser the format, the longer the chew can last. Our family Labrador, an expert in the matter, recommends the Monster sticks and braids, the buffalo chews and the mega rings. Its number one choice, without hesitation: the Extreme Chewer box, which includes an optional buffalo collagen mega ring!
Your dog turns up its nose at collagen?
Since collagen is usually less smelly than a bully stick, some dogs may be less attracted. Try our tripe-coated collagen, which combines a durable chew with a stronger smelling coating to spark your dog’s interest.
Which stick size to choose?
The right format depends on your dog’s weight, chewing power and the duration you want. The 6 inch sticks generally suit dogs under 50 lb. For intense chewers, the Monster format offers a sturdier chew, while a regular stick may suit dogs that chew more gently. The 12 inch sticks are an interesting option for larger dogs or to spread chewing over several sessions. Want a change of texture? The collagen ring offers a different chewing experience and an extra challenge!
Collagen, bully stick or rawhide: the differences
| Feature | Bully stick | Collagen stick | Rawhide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Dried beef pizzle | Beef skin dermis | Processed animal skin |
| Chewing duration | Good | Higher depending on format | Variable |
| Fat content | Moderate | Low | Low |
| Digestibility | Good | Generally good | Can be harder |
| Sold at Happy Chew | Yes | Yes | No |
Chewing duration and digestibility vary with the product and each dog’s habits. For any chew, choose a suitable format and supervise your companion.
A durable, low fat and digestible chew: offer collagen to your dog.
See our collagen sticksFrequently asked questions
Collagen or bully stick: which to choose?
It depends on what you are looking for and your dog’s preferences! The bully stick is made from dried beef pizzle. Its smell makes it irresistible to many dogs. It is generally well digestible, but its texture is less dense than a collagen stick and it lasts less long.
The Happy Chew collagen stick, rolled very tightly, offers a dense texture and usually lasts longer than a bully stick. Less smelly and less greasy, it can however be a little harder to digest for some dogs.
For a dog that quickly finishes its bully stick, collagen is an interesting option, as long as your companion likes this texture! To learn more, read our article: Bully stick or collagen: what are the differences?
Is the collagen stick digestible?
Collagen chew is generally considered digestible, but tolerance varies between dogs. As with any chew, choose a suitable format and supervise your companion.
Is collagen greasy?
No, the collagen stick is known for being low in fat, which makes it an interesting option for regular chewing.
Can I give a collagen stick every day?
The frequency depends on the size of the chew, the overall diet and your dog’s tolerance. Offer a chew suited to its needs, keeping in mind that treats should generally not make up more than 10% of its daily food intake.
Always offer a chew under supervision and with fresh water. Wash your hands after handling.