Despite the strange sounding and even misleading name, bully sticks are basically a type of dog treat and dental chew all in one, that’s made out of beef. They’re also referred to as pizzle sticks.
In this review, we’ll shed more light on this dog product. We’ll provide more detailed description of bully sticks and let you know why you should consider offering them to your pooch. But first, we’d like to share our top picks for the best bully sticks for dogs.
Best Bully Sticks for Dogs
Image | Bully Sticks for Dogs | Rating |
---|---|---|
![]() | 1. Odor-Free Angus Bully Sticks by Best Bully Sticks | 99% |
![]() | 2. Nature Gnaws Small Bully Sticks | 96% |
![]() | 3. Pawstruck Straight Bully Sticks for Dogs or Puppies | 93% |
![]() | 4. Sancho & Lola's 6-Inch Bully Sticks for Dogs | 89% |
![]() | 5. Jack&Pup 6-inch Premium Grade Odor Free Bully Sticks | 85% |
1. Odor-Free Angus Bully Sticks by Best Bully Sticks
The first product on our list of the best bully sticks for dogs comes from the aptly named manufacturer Best Bully Sticks. If you prefer to feed your pet natural, organic dog food, than these sticks are a great supplemental treat that you might want to think about offering him. That’s because they are completely natural; they’re made of pure free-range, grass-fed beef and they aren’t compromised with hormones, additives, or chemicals that could potentially harm your four-legged friend. Since they’re 100 percent natural, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you are giving your pooch a healthy and safe treat, and your pet will love the enticing flavor.
These bully sticks are also packed with protein, the building block of strong, healthy muscles and joints, making them an ideal choice for dogs that are prone to joint issues, like Great Dances, German Shepherds, Dachshunds, and Labrador Retrievers; offered with a high protein dog food, your furry friend will get a healthy dose of this vital nutrient. They also offer essential vitamins, making them a nutritious and delicious treat that your pet will be sure to love. As your pet chews on these chews, tartar and plaque buildup will be scraped away, further adding to the benefits that they provide.
These sticks come in two size options; 6 inch and 12 inch, so there’s an option for small breeds and medium sized breeds, such as West Highland White Terriers and French Bulldogs, as well as large breeds, like Golden Retrievers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and Newfoundlands. According to the majority of the bully stick reviews that we read, pet parents are very happy with the product. However, do be advised that because they are high in protein, if your dog is suffering from kidney problems, you should consult with a vet before using them.
What We Like About It
- 100 percent natural
- Made of organic, grass-fed, free-range beef
- Free of hormones, additives, and other harmful chemicals
- Improves dental health
- Offers a palatable taste
- Most pet parents are very happy with the product
- High in protein
- Low odor
Reasons to Complain
- Since they’re high in protein, they could cause health issues for canines that require a low protein dog food.
- Some customers said that they weren’t happy with the quality of the product.
Final Verdict: For a natural, nutritious, and delicious treat, Odor-Free Angus Bully Sticks by Best Bully Sticks is a great product to consider. They have very low odor, as compared to other bully sticks, they’re completely natural, they’re a great source of protein, and they will improve your pup’s dental health.
2. Nature Gnaws Small Bully Sticks
Next up on our list of the best bully sticks for dogs is Nature Gnaws Small Bully Sticks. These sticks are between five and six inches in length, so they are ideal for smaller breeds, such as Border Collies, Miniature American Shepherds, and Bichons Frises. Made of only one ingredient: grass fed beef, you can be sure that you will be offering your pet a premium quality dental chew; they’re an excellent natural and safe alternative to rawhide chews.
The protein content of the Nature Gnaws Bully Sticks is high, but the fat content is low. If your pet needs to slim down or is prone to weight gain, offering him these treats in combination with a dog food for weight loss will help to keep his weight in-check. Made in the United States in a facility that adheres to USDA safety protocols, you can have confidence knowing that your pet will be getting a superior quality product. According to most of the reviews that we read, the majority of pet parents are very happy with the product; however, there is a downside: they do emit a rather pungent beef odor, which some customers said that they found off-putting. The smell is likely the result of the natural oils that the sticks product.
What We Like About It
- 100 percent natural
- Made of grass fed beef
- Free of hormones, additives, and other harmful chemicals
- Hand-selected to ensure consistency
- Perfect size for small and medium dogs
- Made in a USDA-approved plant
- Most pet parents say that they are very happy with the product
Reasons to Complain
- Though these bully sticks are supposed to have a low odor, some customers said that they emit a pungent beef smell.
- These bully sticks are hallow, which some pet parents said they didn’t like
3. Pawstruck Straight Bully Sticks for Dogs or Puppies
Pawstruck’s Straight Bully Sticks offer a truly straight design, which improves their safety. A lot of pet parents aren’t keen on the curvy shape of a lot of bully sticks because they are concerned that they will injure their dogs’ mouths. Since these sticks are straight, the changes of your pooch’s mouth being injured are reduced. Another reason to like these bully sticks is because they are completely natural; they are made of free range, grass fed cattle and contain absolutely no hormones, chemicals, or other additives that could potentially harm your pup. The makers of this product source only the highest quality ingredients to ensure a premium quality dental chew and treat for your pup. Furthermore, they have a low odor, a factor that pet owners find very appealing because a lot of bully sticks emit a strong smell.
The size of these sticks is ideal for dogs of all ages and sizes. They can be offered to puppies, as well as older dogs along with a senior dog food to provide balanced nutrition. In addition to the straight shape, another thing that sets these bully sticks apart from the rest is that they are available in bulk wholesale sizes; you can purchase as many as 250 sticks at a time! They’re also available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 5 inches to 12 inches. Lastly, they’re backed by a satisfaction guarantee; if you’re unhappy for any reason, contact the manufacturer within 30 days of purchase and they will make sure that you are happy.
What We Like About It
- Offers a straight design
- All natural; contains no hormones, chemicals, or other harmful additives
- Made of grass fed, free range beef
- Low odor
- Available in a variety of lengths and packages of varying sizes; between 10 and 250 sticks per package!
- Most pet parents are very pleased with the product
- Made in a USDA approved facility
- Backed by a satisfaction guarantee
Reasons to Complain
- Though they are made in a USDA facility, that facility is located in South America, which some might find off-putting
- Some customers said that the product they received was different than the product they offered
Final Verdict: For a premium quality, all natural bully stick, Pawstruck Straight Bully Sticks for Dogs or Puppies are a great option They are made of grass feed beef, free of hormones and other harmful chemicals, and are available in a wide range of sizes. They’re also completely straight for improved safety.
4. Sancho and Lola’s 6 Inch Bully Sticks for Dogs
Sancho and Lola’s Bully Sticks are made in the USA, which will offer you peace of mind, as the makers must adhere to strict quality assurance guidelines. Furthermore, they are hand-graded and packed to ensure that they offer a consistent size and shape. They’re also available in a variety of sizes and widths; for example, their thick sticks are great for dogs that have super powerful jaws and love to chew, while their think bullys are great for medium and small breeds, or those that need to reduce their calorie consumption.
Made of all natural, organic beef, these bully sticks are safe for your pooch. They aren’t compromised with growth hormones and other fillers that could be harmful to your pooch. The natural muscle fiber in these bully sticks helps to stimulate the gums and flosses the teeth, reducing plaque and tartar buildup and strengthening your pup’s teeth. According to the majority of reviews that we read, most customers that have used this product are very happy with them. However, some users did say that they weren’t fond of the odor.
What We Like About It
- Made of pure beef
- Free of hormones and fillers
- Made in the USA
- Available in different sizes
- Improves dental hygiene
Reasons to Complain
- Some pet parents said that these bully sticks had a pungent odor
- Others said that the product they received was different than what was advertised
Final Verdict: Sancho and Lola’s 6 Inch Bully Sticks for Dogs are a safe, healthy alternative to rawhide chews. They are made of all natural ingredients and manufactured in the USA; however, do be advised that you might find the odor a little off-putting.
5. Jack and Pup 6-Inch Premium Grade Odor Free Bully Sticks
Last, but most certainly not least, on our list of the best bully sticks review is Jack and Pup 6-Inch Premium Grade Odor Free Bully Sticks. Like all of the other products listed in our review, they are made of premium grade, grass fed, free range cattle. There are absolutely no growth hormones, antibiotics, or other harmful chemicals in these sticks, which means that your pet will get a healthier, tastier dental chew. They’re also made in a facility that is USDA Human Grade Certified facility to further ensure safety.
These bully sticks are guaranteed to be completely digestible and won’t cause any adverse side effects. They’re rich in protein, so they’ll support healthy muscles and joints, yet they’re also low in fat, so they won’t lead to weight gain. Lastly, they can help to effectively reduce bacteria that lead to plaque and tartar buildup, so they’ll help to improve your pet’s dental health.
What We Like About It
- All natural
- Made of grass fed, free range beef
- Free of hormones, chemicals, and other additives
- Made in a USDA certified facility
- Guaranteed to be fully digestible and safe
- Supports dental health
- Most pet parents say that their dogs love the taste and that they are very happy with the product
Reasons to Complain
- While they are advertised as low odor, according to some customers, these bully sticks do emit a strong smell
- Other customers complained about the consistency of the size of the sticks
Final Verdict: Jack and Pup 6-inch Premium Grade Odor Free Bully Sticks will improve your pet’s dental health, increase his protein intake, and they won’t contribute to weight gain. They offer a great taste that your pup will love, and since they’re all natural, you’ll love them, too.
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Bully Sticks for Dogs
Now that we have provided an in-depth review of our top picks for the best and safest bully sticks for dogs, we want to provide more insight about these products. A lot of pet parents aren’t really sure what bully sticks are, or they might wonder if they are safe to offer their pets.
In this section of our review, we’re going to answer some of the most common questions that dog owners have about bully sticks so that you can make a well-informed choice for your pooch.
What are Bully Sticks for Dogs?
Bully sticks look very similar to beef and rawhide chews, but what exactly are they and what are they made of?
These dog chews are made of the dried penis (yes, that’s correct) of a bull or a steer, so essentially, they are considered a byproduct; however, while many pet parents are against offering their pets animal byproducts, bully sticks are different than other types of byproducts that are used in a lot of dog foods and treats. That’s because, unlike most other byproducts that are utilized in pet products, they aren’t altered in any way; well, as least the highest quality bully sticks aren’t.
Bully sticks can be cooked, dried, or even raw, so you can find an option that will appeal to your pet’s palate. They’re also available in a various lengths, widths, and shapes. They are also hard, which means that your pet can chew on them for a while. Do be advised, however, that bully sticks can have a rather powerful odor. If you’re concerned about the smell, make sure that you look for a product that is advertised as “low odor”. We feature some in our review.
What are the Benefits of Bully Sticks?
Why should you consider offering your pet a bully stick? There are actually several reasons. Some of the most notable benefits that your pooch will be able to take advantage of include:
- Improved dental health. Since bully sticks are hard, they encourage chewing. Chewing increases the product of saliva, and saliva contains properties that can help to minimize the production of plaque and tartar causing bacteria. Furthermore, the hard texture helps to brush away any plaque or tartar that have built up on the teeth, and can even loosen food that has become lodged between the teeth or stuck around the gum line. In other words, bully sticks can help to improve your dog’s dental health.
- They prevent destructive chewing. Chewing is an innate instinct in canines. Puppies, in particular, are prone to chewing when they are teething as it helps to reduce any pain that they might be experiencing. Older dogs can chew, too, especially when they are board. By offering your pet a bully stick, you can keep him entertained and provide him with something safe that he can chew one.
- They’re nutrient-rich. Since bully sticks are made of beef, they are packed with protein. Protein is the building block of muscles, so they can help to promote better joint health, which is particularly important for canines that are prone to joint health issues, such as hip dysplasia. To further add to their nutritional benefits, bully sticks are low in calories and cholesterol, and they are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for the overall health of your pup.
- They’re easy to digest. Unlike other dental chews and rawhide treats, bully sticks are easy to digest. That means that they won’t cause an upset tummy or other digestive health issues. And because they are free of grains, you don’t have to worry about adverse reactions of your pooch is sensitive to corn, wheat, soy, or other grain products.
Summing It Up
As a pet parent, your goal is to make sure that your pooch is as contented as possible. That’s totally understandable, since your dog is more than just a pet; he’s a member of your family, and just like any other family member, you want to ensure that he is living his best life. With that said, you go out of your way to make sure that your furry loved one has access to all of the best products possible. You’ve extensively researched various types of dog food brands to ensure that you are filling his dog bowl with nutritious and delicious dog food. You have made sure that he is sleeping in the most comfortable and supportive dog bed. He has access to a dog house that is outfitted with all of the bells and whistles. And of course, your pup also has the best fitting dog collar and dog harness so that he can be as comfortable and well-protected as possible on his regular walks.
Another aspect of pet parenting that is so important is ensuring that your pet is entertained. That’s why you have filled up his toy box with a slew of interactive dog toys. Toys offer mental stimulation, prevent your pup from getting into trouble (like chewing on the furniture and tearing through the garbage), and they just keep him happy. When you’re shopping for toys for your furry pal, there’s a product that you might have come across that you may be wondering if you should offer him or not: bully sticks.
Bully sticks offer so many benefits. They improve dental health, offer vital nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, they prevent destructive chewing, they taste great, and they’ll keep your pet happy. In other words, bully sticks are a fantastic product for pups. If you’re concerned about offering your furry friend bully sticks, check in with your vet first; however, most veterinarians will recommend offering high-quality bully sticks.
All of the bully sticks featured in our review are premium quality. They’re all natural, free of hormones, offer a great flavor, and will improve your pet’s dental health. If you’re looking to make your pet happy and offer him a number of benefits, then you should seriously consider offering him one of the bully sticks that are featured in our review.
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