What is a Beef Pizzle – The Bully Stick

What are Pizzles

For families looking for a safe treat for their dogs to enjoy, a beef pizzle is a great option. A chew that is made from beef and contains only one ingredient, the beef pizzle offers many benefits to its dog fans. The hard texture of the chew assists with maintaining good oral health by assisting with cleaning the teeth and preventing tartar accumulation. The meat itself boosts overall coat health and also encourages strong and healthy muscles and excellent brain functionality. But just what is a beef pizzle, and why should I give it to my dog?

What is a Beef Pizzle Made Of?

A beef pizzle is a dog chew comprised of only one ingredient: dehydrated bull penis. Available in several sizes starting with a small 6” chew and ranging much higher, there is a beef pizzle in the perfect size for any dog.

Beef pizzles are also commonly referred to as bully sticks. They are considered to be completely safe for dogs to consume and are easy on their digestive system, making this treat a far better alternative to the more traditional rawhide.

Available in several different forms, the most commonly seen beef pizzles resemble a long, straight stick. However, for dogs that are impressive chewers, many companies also offer braided beef pizzles that present more of a challenge. Other types of bully sticks include curly beef pizzles and pizzle rings.

How are Some of the Advantages of Giving Dog Beef Pizzles?

Beef pizzles, by nature, are longlasting chews, meaning they keep dogs happy and occupied for a lengthy period of time. For dogs that suffer from separation anxiety, boredom, or other such issues, beef pizzles can be a great tool to help reduce stress in the dog.

Beef pizzles, or bully sticks, are also an excellent treat for puppies to enjoy, particularly when they are teething. Since the pieces break down easily with chewing, there are no sharp shards that could cause a blockage or rupture if swallowed. In addition to this, beef pizzles keep a puppy’s jaws productively engaged, thus providing protection for other household items such as clothing, shoes, and furniture.

How are Beef Pizzles Made?

To begin the manufacturing process, beef pizzles must first be rid of all of their moisture. Once this dehydration has occurred, the beef pizzle is either smoked or baked then allowed to air dry. The multiple steps in this process ensure the remaining product is both shelf stable and safe for dogs to consume.

What are Beef Pizzles Like?

Beef pizzles are quite similar to other all natural dog treats in that they have their own unique smell. Most dogs love their aroma, and most owners do not. Some companies do produce a bully stick that is less fragrant which is a great option for owners with exceptionally sensitive noses.

Are Beef Pizzles a Safe Alternative to Rawhides? How are They Different?

There is no question that beef pizzles are a much safer alternative to traditional rawhides. Since bully sticks are an all natural product, there is no concern about filler ingredients or any chemical additives that are harmful to dogs. In addition to this, beef pizzles break down very easily when chewed. This is not the case with rawhide. Since rawhide is very difficult for dogs to digest, it can lead to swelling in the stomach, a condition that is painful and can be fatal for dogs.

Unlike rawhide that sticks to a dog’s teeth, beef pizzles are very crisp and help to remove plaque and tartar from a dog’s teeth. As an added bonus, this treat is low in fat, making it a great chew for dogs that struggle with maintaining a healthy body weight.

What Kind of Dogs are Beef Pizzles Best For?

Beef pizzles are a great treat for dogs of all ages including seniors and puppies.  They are the ideal choice for dogs facing the following situations:

  • Dogs that are underweight, overweight, or at a healthy weight
  • Dogs that are persistent, hardy chewers
  • Dogs that are not sensitive or allergic to beef
  • Dogs that need assistance with maintaining good oral health
  • Dogs that love rawhides
  • Dogs that do not have dental problems that are irritated by chewing
  • Dogs that love to chew 

How Long Will a Beef Pizzle Last?

The longevity of a beef pizzle depends on what type of chewer the dog is. Some dogs will chew their bully stick until it is completely gone, refusing to put it aside even for a meal, a walk, or a game of ball. Other dogs may tire of enjoying their treat and wish to save it to chomp on further at a later date.

Here are some basic rules of thumb to help beef pizzles last:

  • Select a beef pizzle appropriate for the dog’s size and chewing strength
  • Hold the stick while the dog chews to slow down his chewing efforts

Can Beef Pizzles Hurt a Dog?

Generally speaking, it is highly unlikely that a beef pizzle will hurt a dog. However, it is still recommended that owners provide careful supervision while their dog enjoys a chew, natural or otherwise. When a bully stick becomes small enough to swallow, it is possible that the dog may inhale it, creating a choking hazard. The best way to prevent this is to carefully watch the dog while he is enjoying his treat as well as to select a beef pizzle of the correct size for the dog.

Can Dogs Gain Weight from Beef Pizzles?

Beef pizzles are a low fat treat, making them an excellent choice for dogs that need to lose some weight or that require help to maintain a healthy body condition. However, bully sticks are very high in calories, so it is recommended that they are given as an occasional treat only.

 Can Beef Pizzles Carry Harmful Bacteria?

It is possible that beef pizzles may become contaminated by harmful bacteria; however, this is the exception and not the norm. In addition to this, a dog’s intestinal tract is much stronger than that of human beings and is capable of fighting off more bacteria than we ourselves can. Even if some bacteria is present on the beef pizzle, it is highly unlikely it will cause any harm to the dog.

Many owners wonder if beef pizzles can carry bacteria if they can become ill by handling the treat themselves. This too is highly unlikely. Some bacteria that may affect dogs does not cause any problem for human beings. For the utmost in safety precautions, it is recommended that owners wash their hands well after handling any dog treats or chews.

Thinking Fido could use a new treat? Consider picking up a beef pizzle. Your best canine pal will thank you for it!

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