Tufts Researchers Uncover Harsh Truths About Dog Treats

Bully sticks, a popular dog treat, could be contaminated by bacteria and loaded with calories, according to a study published in the most recent issue of the Canadian Veterinary Journal.

Researchers analyzed the caloric density and bacterial contamination of these treats, also known as "pizzle sticks," which are made from the uncooked, dried penis of a bull or steer.

"We were surprised at the clear misconceptions pet owners and veterinarians have with pet foods and many of the popular raw animal-product based pet treats currently on the market," said Lisa M. Freeman, DVM, PhD, DACVN, professor of nutrition who is board-certified by the American College of Veterinary NutritionFreeman. "For example, 71 percent of people feeding bully sticks to their pets stated they avoid by-products in pet foods, yet bully sticks are, for all intents and purposes, an animal by-product."

For more information about the study, see the full release on Tufts' website.