Collagen Chews for Dogs: What They Are, Benefits & How They Compare to Bully Sticks
Collagen chews have gone from something nobody had heard of to sitting right next to the bully sticks in just a couple of years. If you've seen them and wondered what they actually are or whether they're worth switching to, you're not the only one. Here's what's in them, how they compare to the chews you already know, and which dogs they make the most sense for.
What Are Collagen Chews, Exactly?
Collagen chews are made from beef collagen, which comes from the layer underneath the top of the hide. Collagen is a protein that's a big part of connective tissue, basically the stuff that helps hold the body together.
That layer gets cleaned, shaped into sticks, braids, or rings, and dried. Redbarn's collagen chews are 75% protein and free from grain, gluten, wheat, corn, and soy, with no artificial preservatives or flavors.
Are Collagen Chews the Same as Rawhide?
This is the question that confuses people the most, so here's the straight answer. They both come from beef hide, but they're not the same chew. Collagen has higher protein and less fat than traditional rawhide, and it digests much easier. That's the main reason a lot of owners who stopped buying rawhide have moved over to collagen.
It's still a tough chew, so the same rules apply as anything else you hand your dog. Supervise, and take it away when it gets small.
Collagen Chews vs. Bully Sticks
Both are solid, high-protein beef chews, and plenty of dogs do well with either. The differences come down to a few things.
Bully sticks have a stronger natural smell and flavor, which is why picky dogs tend to go crazy for them. They're also one of the most digestible chews out there. If you want the full breakdown, we covered it in Are Bully Sticks Safe for Dogs?
Collagen chews are lower odor, tend to be a bit denser so they can last longer, and often cost a little less. They also naturally contain chondroitin and glucosamine, the same compounds you see in joint supplements.
So which one? If your dog is picky or has a sensitive stomach, start with a bully stick. If you want something that lasts, smells less, and is easier on the budget, try collagen. Honestly, most dogs are happiest when you rotate both.
Who Collagen Chews Work Best For
Collagen chews fit a lot of dogs, but they really make sense in a few spots. Moderate to strong chewers get the most out of them since the density holds up. Older dogs and active dogs are a good match too because of the natural chondroitin and glucosamine. And if you live in a small space or just can't stand the smell of regular chews, the low odor is a real upgrade.
They're not the best pick for dogs that gulp big pieces without chewing them down first. Size matters here, so match the chew to your dog.
What to Watch For
Collagen chews are simple, but keep a few things in mind. Always supervise, and once the chew is small enough to swallow whole, take it away. Hard chews can be tough on teeth, so if your dog is a real power chewer with dental issues, go easy. They're also calorie dense, so count them as part of what your dog eats that day. And like any new chew, introduce it slowly the first time to see how your dog handles it.
Collagen Chews: Quick Questions
Are collagen chews safe for dogs? Yes, when you buy from a reputable brand, pick the right size, and supervise. The main risks are the same as any chew: swallowing a large piece or chewing too hard on it.
Are collagen chews better than bully sticks? Neither one wins across the board. Collagen is lower odor and usually lasts longer, bully sticks have more flavor and digest a little easier. It depends on your dog.
How long does a collagen chew last? It depends on your dog's size and chewing style. A moderate chewer can stretch one over a couple of sessions, while a power chewer may finish one in a sitting. Braided shapes tend to last longer than straight sticks.
Can puppies have collagen chews? Check with your vet first, especially for young puppies. If you get the okay, pick a smaller size and supervise closely.
What We Carry at Legacy Pet Provisions
We carry Redbarn's Collagen Braid in 6 inch and 12 inch, plus the Collagen Braided Ring if your dog likes a shape they can really get a grip on. Redbarn is a family-owned brand that's been making premium pet products since 1996, and they run over 3,500 quality tests a week before anything ships. If your dog's already a fan of bully sticks or cow ears, collagen is an easy next chew to add to the rotation.
Browse all treats and chews here.