Bully Stick Alternatives for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs, Puppies, and Beef Allergies | Pupford
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Bully sticks are a popular go-to chew for many dog parents. They’re long-lasting, natural, and help promote dental health. However, there are various reasons why pup parents might look for alternatives—whether it's due to sensitive stomachs, puppies needing gentler options, or even beef allergies.
In this blog post, we'll explore all these considerations and highlight bully stick alternatives to keep your pup happy, safe, and satisfied.
Table of Contents:
- What Are Bully Sticks Made Of?
- Bully Stick Alternatives for Sensitive Stomachs
- Bully Stick Alternatives for Puppies
- Bully Stick Alternatives for Beef Allergies
What Are Bully Sticks Made Of?
Bully sticks are made from the dried and processed pizzle (penis) of a bull or steer. They are typically cleaned, dehydrated, and shaped into various sizes, creating a chew that is both natural and highly digestible. Bully sticks are primarily composed of beef protein, making them a rich, long-lasting chew for dogs. They promote dental health by scraping away plaque and tartar as dogs chew, and because they are made from a single ingredient, they appeal to pet owners looking for a natural product.
However, because they are made from beef, they may not be suitable for every dog, particularly those with specific sensitivities or allergies.
Bully Stick Alternatives for Sensitive Stomachs
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, finding a chew that’s gentle yet satisfying can be a challenge. Some dogs may have trouble digesting bully sticks due to the rich beef content, leading to gastrointestinal upset. Fortunately, several alternatives are easier on the stomach while still providing the mental stimulation and dental benefits of a good chew.
The Split Elk Antler Dog Chew is an excellent option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Elk antlers are rich in nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, but they contain no meat proteins that could potentially upset a dog’s stomach. Antlers are also durable and long-lasting, offering extended chewing sessions that can help clean your dog’s teeth without overloading their digestive system. These chews come from naturally shed elk antlers, making them an eco-friendly and natural alternative.
Another option for sensitive stomachs is the Turbo Tendon Dog Chew. Made from beef tendons, these chews are leaner and easier to digest than traditional bully sticks. The lower fat content and single-ingredient makeup make them gentler on the stomach while still offering a satisfying chewing experience that promotes dental health and clean teeth.
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Bully Stick Alternatives for Puppies
Puppies require special consideration when it comes to chews, as their teeth are still developing and their digestive systems can be more sensitive than adult dogs. You want to choose chews that are softer and less likely to cause harm but still tough enough to satisfy a puppy's need to chew, especially during the teething phase.
The Turkey Tendon Dog Chews are a perfect alternative for puppies. Turkey tendons are softer and leaner than beef tendons, making them easier for young pups to digest. They still provide a durable and satisfying chew, helping puppies with teething pain while keeping their growing teeth clean. Since they’re made from turkey, they’re also a good choice for puppies that may be sensitive to beef or need a gentler protein source.
For a softer yet still durable option, the Collagen Stick Dog Chew is a great choice. Made from the inner layer of cow skin, collagen chews are digestible and provide a slightly softer chew than bully sticks, which is ideal for puppies with tender gums and teeth. Collagen also supports healthy joints, which is important as puppies grow and develop. The chew provides a rich source of protein while being easier on delicate tummies.
Bully Stick Alternatives for Beef Allergies
If your dog has a beef allergy, choosing a chew that’s entirely free from beef protein is essential. Many dogs experience allergic reactions to specific proteins, including beef, leading to skin irritations or gastrointestinal issues. Luckily, there are several excellent alternatives that are free from beef and still offer the same satisfaction as a bully stick.
One of the best beef-free alternatives is the Yak Cheese Dog Chew. Made from yak and cow milk, salt, and lime juice, these chews are hard, long-lasting, and completely free from meat proteins, making them an ideal option for dogs with beef allergies. Yak cheese chews are durable and provide hours of chewing enjoyment while supporting dental health. They’re also fully digestible and rich in protein, making them a great alternative to bully sticks.
If you prefer a non-edible chew that’s safe for dogs with allergies, the Coffee Wood Dog Chew is a fantastic option. Made from sustainably sourced coffee wood, this chew provides a natural, durable chewing experience without any risk of allergic reactions. The coffee wood gradually wears down as your dog chews, providing a long-lasting, satisfying alternative for beef-sensitive dogs.
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Healthy Bully Stick Alternatives Recap
While bully sticks are a fantastic option for many dogs, they aren’t suitable for all. Whether your dog has a sensitive stomach, is a growing puppy, or suffers from a beef allergy, it’s important to choose chews that are tailored to their specific needs. From the gentle Split Elk Antler and Turbo Tendon for sensitive stomachs to the softer Turkey Tendon for puppies and the allergen-free Yak Cheese Chew, there’s an option for every dog to enjoy safely and happily.
If your dog requires an alternative to bully sticks, try one of these fantastic options to ensure they stay healthy while still getting the joy and satisfaction of chewing. Each product offers unique benefits, so you can find the perfect chew for your dog’s needs!
2 comments
Leave a CommentWe love bully sticks, but loveeee the tendons even more. My two bully’s are heavy chewers so we are always looking for better and healthier options for them
I buy the large Coffee Wood Dog Chew for my female Pembroke Welsh Gucci, who’s an aggressive chewer and chews up the most toys, especially the ones with a squeaker in them. The Coffee Wood Dog Chews are very tough. I’ve only have ordered two and the last one is still in good shape. I always keep a close eye on her when she chews and toss them when I see pieces of them.