Bully sticks (sometimes also referred to as pizzle sticks) are a popular dog treat that dog owners are turning to. These sticks are a safe, natural, and satisfying chew option for your pup. But what exactly are they, and why do dogs seem to love them so much?
Bully sticks are natural dog chews made from the dried penis of a bull or steer (aka, the pizzle). The pizzle is dehydrated or baked to remove any moisture, preserving the ingredient and creating a long-lasting chew. While this may sound a little unusual to us, dogs absolutely love them!
Just like the humble pig ears, bully sticks are typically a single-ingredient treat, with no additives or artificial ingredients, making them a natural choice compared to highly processed dog treats. They are available in various shapes (like straight sticks, braids, and rings), offering variety for dogs and can accommodate different chewing preferences and strengths. Many dog owners turn to bully sticks as great alternatives to rawhide, as they are fully digestible and less likely to cause digestive issues. Does this make them the perfect chew?
Why Bully Sticks Are a Healthy Choice for Dog Chews
Bully sticks are more than just a tasty treat, they also offer a range of health benefits:
High Protein Content: Protein is essential for dogs, supporting everything from muscle growth and maintenance to immune function. Bully sticks are packed with protein, making them an excellent way to supplement your dog’s diet, especially if they lead an active lifestyle. Much better than the high cereal content in a number of chew options available on the market!
Easily Digestible: Unlike some other chews, bully sticks are fully digestible, breaking down easily in the stomach. This makes them a safer choice for dogs compared to rawhide, which can swell and cause blockages in the digestive tract.
Low in Fat: While high in protein, bully sticks are relatively low in fat, providing a satisfying snack without the extra fats found in some other treats. This helps to reduce excess calories in the treat.
Hypoallergenic: Because they are a single-ingredient treat, bully sticks are less likely to cause allergic reactions. For dogs sensitive to common allergens like chicken, grains, or artificial ingredients, bully sticks therefore provide a natural, protein-rich alternative that’s easy on sensitive those stomachs.
Supports Dental Health: Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs that helps maintain their oral health (and also a great way for them to relieve stress). Bully sticks are long lasting chews that provide a satisfying chewing experience. This chewing action can help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, thus helping to clean teeth and help to maintain your dog’s dental health. Specifically, over time, this can reduce the risk of gum disease, freshen breath, and promote healthier teeth and gums.
Long-Lasting and Engaging: Dogs love chewing, but it’s hard to find a chew that can keep them engaged for long. Bully sticks are dense and durable, providing prolonged chewing satisfaction. They’re especially beneficial for dogs with high energy levels or those prone to boredom or anxiety, as they provide both physical and mental stimulation. And, unlike the stick your dogs chew from the garden, there’s no mess afterwards!
Single-Ingredient, All-Natural: As mentioned above, bully sticks are typically free of artificial ingredients, fillers, or preservatives, making them a natural choice for your pup. Unlike some treats that contain multiple ingredients, these straightforward single-ingredient chews are often suitable for dogs with dietary restrictions and allergies.
Low Carbohydrate Content: Since bully sticks are made entirely of animal protein, they are low in carbohydrates. This aligns well with a dog’s natural diet, as dogs evolved eating high-protein, low-carb foods. For owners looking to maintain a biologically appropriate diet for their dogs, bully sticks fit the bill.
Odor-Free Options: While traditional bully sticks have a natural odor, many manufacturers now offer odor-free versions. This option makes bully sticks a more pleasant experience for pet owners, while still being a tasty and healthy treat for dogs. Though the original versions are not too bad. If you do find them a little stinky, then maybe just limit those puppy kisses for a little while straight after they have one.
Long Shelf Life: As they are dehydrated products, bully sticks have a long shelf life. Nevertheless, do keep in mind that they can still go bad over time, particularly in more humid environments. So, always store them in a cool, dry place and check for any changes in smell or texture before giving them to your pup. …not that your dog will let you keep them around for that long, if they have anything to say about it.
Types of Bully Sticks
Bully sticks come in a variety of types, catering to different dog breeds, ages, and chewing styles. Here are some popular types of bully sticks:
Standard Bully Sticks: These are the most common type of bully stick, made from high-quality beef or steer penis. They are a great all-around option for most dogs.
Thick Bully Sticks: Ideal for aggressive chewers, these sticks are more durable and long-lasting, providing a satisfying challenge for dogs who love to chew.
Thin Bully Sticks: Perfect for smaller dogs or those with sensitive teeth and gums. Thin bully sticks are easier to chew while still offering the same great taste and health benefits discussed above.
Odor-Free Bully Sticks: Made from natural ingredients with a reduced odor, this type of pizzle stick is perfect for dogs with sensitive noses and for pet parents who prefer a less smelly treat.
Flavored Bully Sticks: Available in a range of natural flavors, such as hickory smoke, these sticks are designed to be even more appealing to dogs, adding a tasty twist to the classic bully stick. Though I can’t say that any of our dogs have ever turned their noses up at the original when offered to them.
Are Bully Sticks Safe for All Dogs?
Bully sticks are generally safe for most dogs, but it’s essential to take some precautions:
Choking Hazard: As a bully stick wears down, it can become small enough to swallow, posing a choking risk. The same concern can also arise if your dog is an eager eater and takes larger than normal bites. Always supervise your dog and remove any small pieces. (Some companies also offer bully stick holders to secure the end of the stick, making it safer for your dog to chew.) We have also experienced once or twice, a piece of the chew getting stuck in our pup’s molar teeth and they needed assistance getting it out. So we choose to only give these treats when we are around to supervise, just in case.
Caloric Content: Despite their healthy ingredients, bully sticks are calorie-dense, with a 6-inch stick containing around 90 calories. While this might not seem like much, it can add up for small dogs. So it is worth keeping this in mind to help avoid unintentional weight gain, especially if your pup is on a controlled diet.
Not for All Diets: Although hypoallergenic, some dogs may have specific dietary restrictions or beef allergies, making bully sticks unsuitable. Always check with your vet if your dog has dietary sensitivities or is on a restricted diet before giving them new foods.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Bully Stick
With so many options available, how do you choose the best bully stick for your dog?
Size and Thickness: For the perfect size chew, choose bully sticks based on your dog’s size and chewing habits. Larger dogs may need thicker or braided sticks to keep them entertained, especially if they are agressive chewers, while smaller dogs may prefer thinner sticks (as they will be both less tough and also contain fewer calories).
Source and Quality: Look for bully sticks sourced from reputable suppliers that use natural processing methods. There’s really no need for a long ingredient list for this product, so the fewer the better! Many high-quality bully sticks are sourced from free-range, grass-fed cattle, which provides higher nutritional value.
Odor-Free vs. Regular: If the smell of bully sticks is a concern, consider an odor-free option. Keep in mind that this is achieved by processing the sticks more extensively – undoing some of that natural goodness that draws dog owners to purchasing this type of chew to begin with. Check labels and reviews for information on the product’s smell before purchasing if this is a concern, and also make sure you’re happy with whatever processing has been applied to that brand, if that is a consideration for you.
Where to Buy Bully Sticks
Finding the right place to buy bully sticks is crucial to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product. Here are some popular options:
Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Chewy, and Petco offer a wide selection of bully sticks from various brands, making it easy to compare products and read reviews.
Pet Stores: Major pet store chains like Petco and PetSmart, as well as local pet stores, often carry a good range too.
Specialty Dog Boutiques: Some boutiques specialize in natural and healthy dog treats, including bully sticks. These stores often offer unique and high-quality options that you might not find elsewhere.
Directly from Manufacturers: Some manufacturers, such as Nature Gnaws and Bella & Duke, sell their products directly to consumers through their websites. Buying directly can sometimes offer better prices and fresher products, especially if buying in bulk.
Alternatives to Bully Sticks for Dog Chewing Needs
While bully sticks are great, it’s always nice to have alternatives, especially for variety in your dog’s diet:
Antlers: Made from naturally shed deer or elk antlers, these are very durable and long-lasting. However, they can be hard on a dog’s teeth, and have been known to lead to unexpected doggie dentist visits – so they’re better suited for gentle chewers.
Yak Chews: Made from yak milk, these chews are natural and digestible. They offer a different texture and taste for dogs who enjoy variety in their chews.
Sweet Potato Chews: For dogs looking for a vegetarian or high fibre option, sweet potato chews are a good choice. They’re not as long-lasting as bully sticks, but they’re gentle on the stomach.
Carrot chews: Another option can be the humble carrot from your garden. These come in a variety of sizes, are highly digestable for your dog and provides additional rouffage in their diet. They can also be chilled for those warmer-weather days. Bonus, you’ll likely have a few already hanging around in the kitchen, so they provide a cheap and easy alternative treat.
Are Bully Sticks Right for Your Dog?
In summary, bully sticks are a natural, highly digestible, and engaging chew option that offers numerous health benefits for dogs. They support dental health, provide mental stimulation, and are a great alternative to rawhide or processed treats. However, as with any treat, offer them in moderation and remember to supervise your pup when eating them. Keep product size and sourcing quality in mind when selecting which types to buy, so that you can feel confident in the treats you are giving to your dog. Ultimately, bully sticks are a fantastic addition to your dog’s treat options, and one that we buy regularly for our little dog pack!