Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Lightly flour a work surface. Roll the pizza dough into a rectangle about 12 by 9 inches. Cut the dough into 12 even strips.

Place one mozzarella piece in the center of each dough strip. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the seam closed. Roll gently into a rope shape.

Use clean kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut a small slit into each end of the dough rope. Pull the cut ends apart slightly and round them to create a bone shape.

Arrange the breadstick bones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Brush half of the garlic butter over the breadsticks.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.

Brush the baked breadsticks with the remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if using.

Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.