If you’ve explored the best dog treats options, you may have come across bully sticks quite frequently. Then again, maybe you haven’t heard of them yet. I know I didn’t know about them until my dogs were 8 years old, and I have some very spoiled canines! I was a little shocked at the sticker price- bully sticks can be costly- but when I learned how these really are the best treats for your dogs, I made a point to splurge on them as often as possible. Let me tell you a bit about bully sticks and why they’re considered the best dog treats.
What are bully sticks?
Let’s get this out of the way first. What are bully sticks? Well, they’re bull penises. Yes, you read that right. Bull. Penises. I almost fell over when I learned that! I’m not sure if I was falling over from mortification, laughter or shock, but there you go. Bull penises. Now do you understand why they’re so costly? Each bull only has one, after all.
Basically, when a bull is slaughtered, the penises are removed and hung to dry. All the fluids that naturally collect in such an organ are drained out, leaving behind an odorless shell. Hanging it also causes it to stretch up to 40 inches (it starts out about about 22 inches). Once dried and sterilized, it’s shipped to your favorite pet retailers.
Why Are Bully Sticks Considered One of the Best Dog Treats?
So what does all this have to do with why they’re considered such top-of-the-line treats? Well, think about it: your dog is getting a completely natural treat in every stick. Yes, to us humans, it sounds kind of gross. I admit to being completely weirded out by the whole thing for a while! Then I realized that my dogs have eaten far worse stuff (we have cats and litter boxes, enough said) and got over it.
Here are some compelling reasons why bully sticks are among the best treats you can give your dog:
- 100% Natural: Bully sticks are made from a single ingredient – beef. There are no artificial additives, preservatives, or chemicals involved in the process. This makes them a healthier choice compared to many commercial dog treats that are loaded with artificial ingredients and fillers.
- Highly Digestible: Unlike rawhide treats, which can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause intestinal blockages, bully sticks are easily digestible. This means that they break down fully in your dog’s stomach, reducing the risk of any digestive issues.
- Low in Fat: Bully sticks are low in fat, making them a great option for dogs that need to watch their weight. They provide a high-protein snack without the extra calories that can contribute to weight gain.
- Dental Health Benefits: Chewing on bully sticks helps to scrape away plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth. This can lead to improved dental health and fresher breath. The natural chewing action also helps to strengthen your dog’s jaw muscles.
- Safe and Long-Lasting: One of the biggest concerns with dog treats is the risk of choking or blockages. Bully sticks don’t splinter or break into large, dangerous pieces like some other treats do. They soften as your dog chews on them, making them safer for your pet. Plus, they’re long-lasting, providing extended entertainment and mental stimulation for your dog.
- Satisfies Natural Chewing Instincts: Dogs have a natural urge to chew, and bully sticks are perfect for satisfying this instinct. Chewing can relieve stress and anxiety in dogs, making bully sticks not only a physical treat but also a mental one.
- Odor-Free Options: While some bully sticks can have a strong odor, many brands now offer odor-free versions that are just as enjoyable for your dog without the smell that might bother you.
- Variety of Sizes and Shapes: Bully sticks come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect one for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Whether you have a small breed or a large, aggressive chewer, there’s a bully stick that will suit their needs.
Where to Buy
You can find bully sticks at just about any pet store. I recommend getting them online though because you can usually save quite a bit of money. Pawstruck is a great place to buy from. They’re very reasonable, especially compared to other brands that I’ve used over the years. Plus, they have a great variety of options ranging from thinner straight sticks to thick braids that last a long time for aggressive chewers.
Only one ingredient goes into these tasty treats, all-natural beef from high quality cattle. Each one is braided with 3 separate sticks. They contain no smelly odors and are easy to digest., so your best bud’s sensitive stomach can rejoice.
While the idea of giving your dog a treat made from bull penis might seem odd at first, bully sticks offer numerous benefits that make them an excellent choice for your pet. They’re natural, healthy, and safe, providing your dog with a satisfying chew that promotes dental health and satisfies their instinctual needs. So next time you’re looking for a treat that your dog will love and that you can feel good about giving, consider bully sticks. Your dog will thank you for it!
