If your little power-chewer has ever turned a brand-new slipper into confetti in under five minutes, you already know why Nylabone Nubz are having such a moment among small-dog parents. These knobby, edible chews promise the holy trifecta of canine satisfaction: long-lasting entertainment, built-in dental perks, and a size that actually fits tiny jaws. But walk down the virtual pet-aisle in 2025 and you’ll be met with a dizzying array of package colors, flavor claims, and “limited-edition” shapes—enough to make even seasoned dog owners wonder what’s marketing sparkle and what’s science.
Before you click “add to cart,” it helps to understand how Nylabone formulates its Nubz line for petite pups, which ingredients deliver the dental scrubbing action, and how to match a chew to your dog’s unique chewing style. Below, you’ll find an expert roadmap that cuts through the hype, deciphers label jargon, and arms you with veterinarian-approved shopping strategies—no flash-in-the-pan ranking lists required.
Top 10 Nubz Small Dog Treats
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats for Small Dogs, Long Lasting Dog Bones Made in USA, Chicken Flavor Breath Freshener Dental Chews, for Dogs Up to 25 lbs. (36 Count)
Overview: Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats deliver a 36-count box of chicken-flavored dental chews designed specifically for small dogs up to 25 pounds. These USA-made treats promise to satisfy your pup’s natural chewing instincts while freshening breath and reducing plaque buildup.
What Makes It Stand Out: The generous 36-count package offers exceptional convenience for small dog owners, eliminating frequent reordering. Real chicken provides authentic flavor that even picky eaters love, while the distinctive nubbed texture effectively cleans teeth and massages gums during chewing sessions.
Value for Money: At $26.25 ($11.20/lb), this represents excellent value for premium USA-made chews. The 36-count box typically lasts small dogs 1-2 months, making the daily cost under $0.50 per treat—comparable to lower-quality alternatives while providing superior dental benefits.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include high digestibility, natural ingredients without artificial additives, and appropriate sizing for small mouths. The chicken flavor appeals to most dogs, and the long-lasting nature keeps pups engaged. However, aggressive chewers may finish these faster than advertised, and the small size could pose choking risks for larger dogs who might steal them.
Bottom Line: These Nylabone Nubz are an outstanding choice for small dog owners seeking affordable, natural dental chews. The USA-made quality, real chicken flavor, and bulk packaging make this a smart purchase for maintaining your small dog’s dental health.
2. Nylabone Nubz Flavor Bursts Natural Edible Chew Bones for Dogs, Healthy Long Lasting Chews Made in The USA, Grain-Free Dog Treats for Large Dogs, Bacon & Cheese Flavor (7 Count)
Overview: Nylabone Nubz Flavor Bursts bring gourmet taste to dog dental care with real cheese and natural bacon flavor in a grain-free formula. Tailored for large dogs, these 7 substantial chews promise longer-lasting enjoyment while promoting dental health through their unique textured design.
What Makes It Stand Out: The bacon and cheese flavor combination sets these apart from typical meat-only chews, creating an irresistible taste profile. Being grain-free and corn-free makes them suitable for dogs with food sensitivities, while the larger size prevents gulping and extends chewing time for proper dental benefits.
Value for Money: At $15.99 for 7 large chews ($19.99/lb), these premium treats command a higher price point. However, the specialized grain-free formulation, USA manufacturing, and size-appropriate design for large dogs justify the cost for owners seeking quality over quantity.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The unique flavor burst formula excites even finicky large dogs, while the grain-free recipe suits sensitive stomachs. These chews effectively reduce plaque and tartar through extended chewing. The main drawback is the small count package—7 chews may only last a week for enthusiastic chewers, making frequent repurchasing necessary and potentially expensive.
Bottom Line: Despite the premium pricing, these Nylabone Nubz Flavor Bursts deliver exceptional quality for large dogs with food sensitivities. The gourmet flavors and dental benefits make them worth the investment for owners prioritizing their dog’s health and happiness.
3. Nylabone Nubz Wild Natural Dog Chew Treats for Small Dogs, Long Lasting Healthy Dog Chew Bones Made in USA, Bison Flavor, for Dogs Up to 25 lbs. (12 Count)
Overview: Nylabone Nubz Wild taps into your dog’s primal instincts with real bison flavor in a small-dog-friendly format. These 12 natural chew treats promise exotic taste excitement while maintaining the brand’s commitment to limited ingredients and USA manufacturing standards.
What Makes It Stand Out: Bison flavor offers a novel protein option rarely found in mainstream dog treats, perfect for dogs bored with standard chicken or beef options. The wild game taste appeals to dogs’ natural preferences while providing allergy-friendly alternative protein for sensitive pups.
Value for Money: Priced at $13.99 for 12 treats ($22.61/lb), these represent the premium tier of the Nubz line. The unique bison protein and smaller package size increases per-treat cost, but offers variety for rotation feeding or special occasions.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The exotic bison flavor generates enthusiastic responses from dogs, while the limited ingredient formula suits sensitive systems. Natural USA-made quality ensures safety and consistency. However, the higher price per pound and moderate 12-count package may not suit multi-dog households or daily treating routines. Some dogs might find the stronger game scent initially off-putting.
Bottom Line: These Wild Bison Nubz excel as occasional treats for small dogs needing protein variety. While expensive for daily use, they’re perfect for special rewards or rotational feeding to maintain your dog’s interest in dental care routines.
4. Nylabone Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews, 22 Count
Overview: Nylabone Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews offer a substantial 22-count package of large chews weighing 2.6 pounds total. Designed for dogs of all sizes except puppies, these chews focus on dental health benefits while providing extended chewing satisfaction.
What Makes It Stand Out: The all-sizes approach makes this package versatile for multi-dog households, while the significant 2.6-pound quantity ensures lasting value. The dental-focused design emphasizes plaque removal and breath freshening through textured nubs that reach between teeth.
Value for Money: At $21.59 ($8.30/lb), this represents the best value in the Nubz lineup. The large 22-count bag typically lasts 3-4 weeks for most dogs, bringing daily dental care costs to under $1—exceptional for USA-made premium chews.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The excellent price-per-pound makes daily dental care affordable, while the universal sizing suits various breeds. These chews effectively reduce plaque and keep dogs occupied. However, the one-size-fits-all approach may not work perfectly—small dogs might struggle with portions, while giant breeds could swallow pieces. The exclusion of puppies limits the customer base.
Bottom Line: This bulk package offers outstanding value for households with adolescent or adult dogs. The combination of economical pricing, USA quality, and proven dental benefits makes these Natural Nubz an intelligent choice for maintaining your dog’s oral health on a budget.
5. Natural Nubz Edible Dental Dog Chews Treats Made in Usa, No Preservatives
Overview: Natural Nubz Edible Dental Dog Chews deliver essential dental care benefits without artificial additives at an economical price point. These USA-made treats focus on simplicity and digestibility while maintaining the textured nub design for effective teeth cleaning.
What Makes It Stand Out: The straightforward formula prioritizes digestibility and natural ingredients over fancy flavors or exotic proteins. These chews appeal to owners seeking no-nonsense dental care treats without premium pricing for gourmet features their dogs don’t need.
Value for Money: At $21.56 ($8.29/lb), these tie for the lowest price-per-pound in the Nubz collection. The emphasis on core dental benefits rather than specialty flavors provides excellent value for practical pet owners focused on health over novelty.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The highly digestible formula suits sensitive stomachs, while the USA manufacturing ensures quality standards. The nubbed texture effectively cleans teeth during natural chewing behavior. However, the lack of specified sizing guidance could confuse buyers about appropriate portions for their dogs. Without flavor variety, picky eaters might lose interest over time.
Bottom Line: These Natural Nubz deliver solid dental care value for budget-conscious owners. While they lack the excitement of flavored varieties, their reliable quality, digestibility, and competitive pricing make them perfect for daily dental maintenance routines.
6. Nylabone (Pack of 2) Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews 22ct. (2.6lb/Bag) -Total 5.2lb
Overview:
The Nylabone Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews come in a twin 2.6-lb pack (5.2 lb total) with 22 large chews per bag—44 chews total. Marketed for adult dogs of any size, they promise dental benefits and fresh breath in a USA-made, chicken-based formula.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Bulk is the headline: 44 chews for under forty dollars gives you a month-plus supply even for power chewers. The ridged “nub” texture is baked—no rawhide—so it scrubs plaque while dissolving safely. Unlike many edible chews, there’s no strong odor, making couch snuggles post-treat bearable.
Value for Money:
At $7.34 per pound you’re landing beneath most boutique dental chews (typically $9-$12/lb). Factor in zero vet-formulated pricing and the convenience of Prime shipping, and the cost-per-cleaning is excellent for multi-dog households.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: generous count, highly digestible, noticeable breath improvement within a week, breaks cleanly for portion control.
Cons: “Baby” age range in the listing is misleading—packaging clearly states “Not for puppies,” so buyer beware; some dogs gnaw through a whole stick in under five minutes, denting the “long-lasting” claim.
Bottom Line:
A wallet-friendly, dental-focused chew that adult dogs genuinely enjoy. Stock one bag, split the second with a friend, and both pups (and budgets) stay happy.
7. Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews 22ct. (2.6lb Bag)(Pack of 2)
Overview:
Identical in formula to Product 6 but sold under slightly different packaging, this two-pack delivers 4.12 lb of Natural Nubz—about 44 full chews or 88 half-size portions—for $38.32.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Flexibility is key: score each stick at the molded groove to create half-size rewards for smaller mouths or training moments. Real chicken headlines the ingredient list, and digestion-friendly starches replace rawhide entirely, sparing sensitive stomachs.
Value for Money:
$7.30/lb places these among the cheapest edible dental chews that are still made stateside. If you’ve previously paid $15 for a single 1-lb bag of competitor sticks, the savings are immediate and sizeable.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: neat break-apart design, no artificial colors, noticeably reduces tartar at the canine gum line after two weeks of daily use.
Cons: calorie load—each full stick is ~200 kcal, so watch waistlines; not for teething puppies despite photo suggestions; scent is bland, which fussy dogs may snub.
Bottom Line:
For households mixing medium and large breeds, these snap-apart sticks offer portion control without sacrificing dental benefits. Keep an eye on caloric intake and you’ve got a solid, affordable chew routine.
8. Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats for Puppies, Long Lasting Dog Bones Made in USA, Puppy Training Treats, Turkey & Sweet Potato Flavor, for Puppies Up to 25 lbs. (28 Count)
Overview:
Tailored specifically for puppies up to 25 lb, this 28-count box features turkey-and-sweet-potato Nubz fortified with DHA Omega-3 and calcium. Made in the USA, the softer texture eases teething pain while aiding brain development.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Most “puppy chews” are mere biscuits; these actually last 5–10 minutes of determined gnawing, sparing your furniture. Added calcium supports erupting teeth, while flaxseed keeps youthful coats glossy—rare nutritional extras in a chew format.
Value for Money:
At $11.91/lb you’re paying above the adult Nubz lines, yet still below single-ingredient “premium” puppy sticks. Considering the developmental add-ons, the premium is justifiable, especially during rapid growth phases.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: DHA inclusion, gentle abrasion cleans without hurting delicate gums, resealable pouch maintains freshness, zero artificial preservatives.
Cons: price-per-chew climbs quickly for large-breed adolescents; some batches crumble rather than chew, creating carpet crumbs; not suitable for powerful adult jaws.
Bottom Line:
An excellent teething aid that merges entertainment with developmental nutrition. Use from 12 weeks onward, supervise closely, and transition to the adult line once permanent teeth arrive.
9. Nylabone Nubz Flavor Bursts Natural Edible Chew Bones for Dogs, Healthy Long Lasting Chews Made in The USA, Grain-Free Dog Treats for Small Dogs, Bacon & Cheese Flavor (36 Count)
Overview:
Nylabone’s Flavor Bursts line targets small dogs with grain-free, bacon-cheese bones. The 36-count pouch is made in the USA, omitting corn, soy, and artificial colors while promising plaque-scraping nubs and longer-lasting chew sessions.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The aroma actually smells like breakfast—real cheese powder and natural bacon fat hit canine olfaction hard, enticing even picky eaters. Grain-free formulation suits allergy-prone pups, and the mini size prevents caloric overkill for dogs under 25 lb.
Value for Money:
$15.05/lb is steep versus standard Nubz, but competitive against other limited-ingredient, grain-free chews. If your terrier has itchy paws, paying a couple extra bucks to dodge grains can avert pricier vet visits later.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: high palatability, safe for dogs with grain sensitivity, individually molded nubs give 360° dental contact, resealable bag.
Cons: small dogs still finish in 3–5 minutes, so “long-lasting” is relative; fat content (8%) may upset delicate stomachs; cheese residue can stain light-colored fabric.
Bottom Line:
A flavorful, allergy-aware chew that excels as a high-value reward rather than an occupied-time bone. Buy for special occasions or post-brushing praise, not for an all-afternoon distraction.
10. Nylabone Nubz Natural Edible Chew Treats for Dogs, Made in USA, Chicken Flavor, Large – Up to 50 lbs. (40 Count)
Overview:
Designed for power chewers up to 50 lb, this 40-count mega box supplies chicken-flavor Nubz made with U.S. chicken and zero artificial additives. Each stick provides extended chewing time while helping control tartar on big back molars.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Scale matters—40 full-size chews in one purchase keeps multi-dog homes stocked for well over a month. Density is tweaked for larger jaws, so a 45-lab takes 10–15 minutes to work through one, offering genuine mental stimulation.
Value for Money:
At $8.90/lb you’re mid-pack price-wise but at the top for count: Costco-style bulk without the membership. Cost-per-chew under a dollar rivals rawhide yet skips its digestive hazards.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: substantial chew time, limited-ingredient list keeps allergic dogs in the clear, calcium supports adult teeth, large count reduces reorder频率.
Cons: caloric heft (~190 kcal each) means strict rationing for weight-prone breeds; packaging is a single plastic sack—large chews can fragment if crushed under heavy items in transit; chicken scent is strong—expect eager noses in your pantry.
Bottom Line:
If you share life with one (or several) 40-plus-pound chewers, this box delivers safe, made-in-USA entertainment without constant store runs. Manage calories and storage, and you’ll earn quieter evenings and cleaner teeth.
Why Nubz Have Become the Go-To Dental Chew for Toy and Small Breeds
Tiny mouths mean tiny teeth wedged closely together—prime real estate for plaque buildup. Nubz’ raised nubs and ridges act like mini toothbrushes, reaching the gumline where bristled human brushes often struggle. The chews are also portion-calibrated for dogs under 25 lbs, eliminating the guesswork (and calorie overload) owners face when breaking down larger chews.
Decoding the “Edible Nylon” Technology in 2025 Formulations
This year Nylabone refined its classic edible-nylon base by incorporating highly digestible starches derived from potato and pea. The result is a chew that still lasts long enough to scrub but is gentler on sensitive stomachs than earlier iterations. Look for the phrase “edible nylon polymer blend” on the back panel—it signals the updated recipe rather than older stock.
Nutritional Considerations for Dogs Under 25 lbs
Caloric Density & Daily Allowance
A single Nubz chew can pack 60–90 kcal, a significant chunk of a Chihuahua’s daily allowance. Scan for calorie counts printed near the Guaranteed Analysis and factor them into meal times to avoid accidental weight creep.
Avoiding Fillers and Allergens
Wheat, corn, and soy still appear in some flavor variants even in 2025. If your pup has suspected food sensitivities, reach for packages labeled “grain-free” and cross-reference the ingredient deck for hidden gluten binders.
Texture Profiles: Matching Chew Strength to the Right Nubz Density
Dogs chew in three primary styles: (1) nibblers, (2) destroyers, and (3) power-chewers. Nylabone now prints a paw-print icon scale on the lower right corner—one paw for gentle gnawers, three paws for determined jaws. Choose softer “Flexi-Nubz” for seniors; select firm “Dura-Nubz” for adolescent Terriers who think everything is a challenge.
Flavor Science: Natural vs. Artificial Palatants
Natural smoke or bouillon powder offers aroma without synthetic dyes, but artificial palatants can amp up acceptance among picky eaters. If you’re anti-additive, look for the term “natural flavor” followed by a specific protein source (e.g., “natural chicken flavor”). A 2024 clinical palatability study showed dogs accepted chews with natural chicken at the same rate as those using artificial bacon—so you don’t have to compromise values for taste.
Grain-Free vs. Limited-Ingredient: Which Label Matters?
Grain-free removes common carb crops; limited-ingredient often retains rice but slashes protein sources to one animal. For pups with bona-fide grain allergies, grain-free is non-negotiable. For most, limited-ingredient is plenty—and the added rice can improve chew flexibility, lowering tooth fracture risk.
Safety Protocols: Size, Supervision, and Swapping Out
Always select the “Petite” or “Small” size, never medium—even if cost per ounce looks better. A too-large Nubz can wedge across the palate, causing panic and a costly vet visit. Replace when the chew is small enough to fit entirely in the mouth, and discard fragments bigger than a corn kernel to avoid esophageal obstruction.
Vet-Approved Chewing Schedules to Maximize Dental Benefits Yet Protect Enamel
Daily use is fine, but cap sessions at 10–15 minutes to prevent abrasive wear on enamel. Alternate with rubber toys on off-hours to give teeth a breather. Post-meal chewing increases salivary pH, naturally neutralizing bacteria—so aim to offer the Nubz right after breakfast or dinner.
Reading the Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein, Fat, and Fiber Thresholds
Shoot for crude protein ≥ 12 %, fat ≤ 4 %, and fiber ≤ 4 % for a balanced chew that won’t spike pancreatitis risk in sensitive breeds like Miniature Schnauzers. If numbers aren’t printed, check the QR code—federal labeling rules now require full transparency in digital form.
Storage Hacks to Maintain Freshness in Humid Climates
Edible nylon absorbs ambient moisture, turning soft and sticky—prime mold territory. Drop a food-grade desiccant pack into the resealable bag and store below 75 °F. For super-humid zones (Florida, we’re looking at you), vacuum-seal individual chews and freeze; thaw 10 minutes before use to restore original texture.
Traveling With Nubz: TSA Rules, Hotel Etiquette, and Carry-On Tips
Solid treats are allowed through TSA, but pack them in a clear, quart-size bag alongside your toiletries to avoid secondary screening. At hotels, place a disposable mat under chewing sessions—natural dye can leach onto white linens, earning you an unwanted cleaning fee.
Budgeting: Cost-Per-Minute of Chew Time Compared to Similar Dental Treats
Calculate value by dividing package price by total expected chew minutes (package count × average 20-minute lifespan). Premium Nubz average 18 ¢/min versus rawhide rolls at 25 ¢/min—without the salmonella risk rawhide carries.
Sustainability Angle: Recyclable Packaging and Sourcing Transparency
Nylabone’s 2025 pouches carry the How2Recycle label; curb-side recyclable in most U.S. cities. The company now publishes a sourcing scorecard on its site—look for potatoes sourced from drought-efficient farms in the Pacific Northwest if carbon footprint is high on your worry list.
Transitioning From Rawhide or Pig Ears Without Tummy Turmoil
Introduce gradually: swap 25 % of the usual chew time for Nubz the first three days, 50 % the next three, then full replacement. This staged approach minimizes digestive upset as your dog’s pancreas adjusts to the different fat–protein ratio.
Red Flags: When to Contact Your Vet Mid-Chew
Sudden gagging, frothy drool, or pawing at the face can indicate lodge-and-choke. Perform an open-mouth sweep only if you can see and easily grasp the fragment; otherwise head to emergency care. Persistent diarrhea post-chew may signal fat intolerance—discontinue and consult your vet for alternative dental options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Nylabone Nubz fully digestible if my small dog gnaws off large pieces?
Yes, the updated 2025 edible-nylon polymer base is designed to break down once swallowed, but chunks larger than a dime can still pose an obstruction risk—always supervise.
2. How many calories does a petite Nubz add to my dog’s daily intake?
Between 60–90 kcal depending on flavor; deduct the same from regular meals to keep calories in check.
3. Can I give a Nubz chew to my puppy under six months?
Vets recommend waiting until adult molars erupt (around six months) to avoid premature enamel wear.
4. Do Nubz expire?
They carry an 18-month shelf life; look for a “best by” stamp on the back seam and store sealed to preserve freshness.
5. Are there any animal proteins in the vegetarian-flavored options?
“Vegetarian” packs may still contain chicken fat for palatability—scan the ingredient deck if your dog has true protein allergies.
6. How often should I replace a chew?
Swap it out when it’s smaller than your dog’s muzzle width or shows deep cracks that can splinter.
7. Do Nubz help with bad breath?
Mechanical scrubbing reduces plaque, the root cause of odor, but persistent halitosis warrants a vet dental check for underlying disease.
8. Is it normal for the chew color to stain light-colored carpets?
Natural dyes can transfer when wet—use a towel or silicone mat during chew sessions.
9. Can diabetic dogs have Nubz?
With fat < 4 % and limited sugars, most diabetic pups tolerate them, but clear any treat addition with your vet first.
10. What’s the difference between Nubz and classic Nylabone “bones”?
Nubz are fully edible; classic Nylabones are hard, non-consumable nylon meant for power-chewers and should not be ingested.