If you landed here, you are probably scratching your head wondering, "what is beef pizzle?" This is actually a really common treat you will find on most pet store shelves due to its health benefits, both physically and mentally for dogs. However, it is commonly called a "bully stick" as that is a more catchy name that also deptics that it is made from bull (beef) and comes in a stick shape. What you may not know, as many don't, is what part of the bull it is sourced from. Beef Pizzle is made from the penis of a bull. Although this is not commonly a food humans eat, for dogs it can be a delicious, entertaining, and nutrient dense treat! In this blog post, we're diving into the world of beef pizzle (a.k.a beef bully sticks), what it is, the benefits, how we cook it to keep it fresh and all natural, and everything there is to know about Bully Sticks.
Difference Between Pizzle Sticks and Bully Sticks:
The terms "pizzle sticks" and "bully sticks" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to the same type of treat made from the pizzle (penis) of animals, typically bulls. There is no inherent difference between pizzle sticks and bully sticks in terms of their composition or preparation. Both are single-ingredient dog treats, made solely from the muscle tissue of the bull's penis.
What are The Benefits of Beef Bully Sticks?
Beef Bully Sticks is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in your dogs body especially if they're an active dog. It also contains vitamins and minerals, including zinc, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. These nutrients play important roles in supporting overall health, including immune function, bone health, and energy production.
Bully Stick Ingredients:
Beef Bully Sticks are crafted from pure beef muscle, ensuring they are 100% natural and free from additives or artificial preservatives. The chew undergoes a meticulous process of sourcing, cleaning, and drying.
Here is what our cooking process looks like:
- Beef Bully Sticks will go through an Apple Cider Vinegar wash with absolutely no chemical or pesticides.
- The chews are then placed in a 3000 square foot temperature controlled cooler.
- The chew will remain in the cooler for 4-5 days tempering.
- Then we air dry & reach temperatures of 165 degrees to kill all bacteria.
- The cool time is 48 hours, then we cut the Beef Bully Sticks to size, & store in a resealable bag.
We cook our Beef Bully Sticks with minimal processing to help our dogs gain all the nutritional benefits. We understand that chews go far beyond making mouths water and tails wag. These products have the ability to nourish our fur babies and our job is to present them in safe, healthy and desirable form.
Are Bully Sticks Safe for Dogs?
Bully sticks are generally considered safe for dogs when used responsibly and provided in moderation. As they are made from a single ingredient (beef pizzle) and typically free from additives or artificial preservatives, they are a natural and healthier alternative to many commercial dog treats.
However, there are a few important safety considerations to keep in mind:
Choking Hazard:
Like any other chew, bully sticks can pose a choking hazard, especially for heavy chewers, dogs that swallow large pieces, or puppies. It's crucial to supervise your dog while they enjoy their bully stick and remove it once it becomes small enough to swallow. We recommend using this safety tool while your dog is chewing on a bully stick.
Digestive Sensitivity:
Some dogs may have digestive sensitivities or allergies to certain proteins. If your dog has never had a bully stick before, it's best to introduce them slowly and observe for any adverse reactions. If your dog experiences any gastrointestinal issues or allergies after consuming a bully stick, please discontinue giving your dog the chew and consult with your veterinarian.
Caloric Content:
Bully sticks are calorie dense, so it's essential to factor them into your dog's overall daily caloric intake to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain.
Are Bully Sticks Safe for Puppies?
Yes, bully sticks can be safe for puppies, but it's important to consider a few additional factors when offering them to young dogs:
Supervision:
Puppies can start having bully sticks once they are weaned and have a strong set of puppy teeth. This typically occurs around 8 weeks of age. It's essential to monitor their chewing behavior closely.
Puppy Size:
Choose a bully stick that is appropriate for your puppies size. Smaller breed puppies may need thinner bully sticks, while larger breed puppies can handle thicker ones.
Avoid Additives:
Stick to natural and additive free bully sticks for puppies, as their digestive systems can be more sensitive than adult dogs.
How Long Should Dogs Chew on Bully Sticks?
The duration of chew time for bully sticks can vary depending on the dog's size, chewing habits, and the size of the bully stick itself. As a general guideline:
Small Dogs and Puppies:
Smaller dogs and puppies may take several hours to days to finish a bully stick, especially if it's a larger one. Since smaller breeds have less jaw strength, they might need more time to break down the stick.
Medium to Large Dogs:
Medium to large dogs with stronger jaws can consume bully sticks more quickly. They might finish a standard-sized bully stick within an hour or two.
Calories in a Bully Stick:
The number of calories in a bully stick can vary depending on its size and thickness. On average, a standard 6-inch bully stick contains approximately 70 to 100 calories. However, longer and thicker bully sticks can have more calories. It's essential to be mindful of the caloric content, especially if you are using bully sticks as a regular treat or part of your dog's daily diet. Consider the overall calorie intake from all sources to maintain a balanced diet and prevent overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain.