Bow Wow Labs Buddy Medium Dog Chew Toy Review SafeFit Bully Stick Holder Insights

Description

Practical Experience with the Buddy Safety Device

As someone who owns a medium-sized dog with an insatiable love for chewing, I’ve put the Buddy Safety Device to the test over the past few weeks. This newly redesigned bully stick holder promises to prevent choking hazards, and I must say, it feels like a game-changer in the world of dog chew toys. I tested the product with my 45-pound Labrador mix, Sadie, who has a reputation for demolishing chews in record time.

The device itself is crafted from BPA-free nylon, which gives it a sturdy, durable feel. It’s lightweight at just over 10 ounces, and the orange design is surprisingly stylish for a dog accessory. What sets it apart is its focus on safety. Holding bully sticks and other chews firmly in place, it eliminates the risk of my overzealous pup attempting to swallow the last chunk.

Features and Usability

This bully stick holder is marketed towards medium-sized dogs, specifically those weighing between 31 and 50 pounds, so it fit Sadie perfectly. The tight grip it provides is impressive. Once I inserted a bully stick into the holder, it stayed locked in place, even as Sadie gnawed with all her might. The SafeFit technology, designed for use with Bow Wow Labs’ bully sticks and collagen sticks, seems to work seamlessly, making the chewing experience safer and more enjoyable for both dog and owner.

I also appreciate the material choice. The nylon construction is not only durable but also dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning up after a slobbery chew session a breeze. My biggest gripe with other chew holders I’ve tried is how gross and sticky they become over time. This one, however, comes out of the dishwasher looking brand new every single time.

Another noteworthy feature is the product’s size and grip mechanism. Unlike some generic holders I’ve experimented with, this one feels thoughtfully designed. It’s easy to insert the chew, but removing it requires some effort, which is a good thing—it ensures my dog can’t yank it out on her own.

Real-World Observations

Using the Buddy Safety Device has been a mostly positive experience, though it’s not entirely without its quirks. Sadie took to it almost immediately, which was a relief because she’s been known to abandon toys or devices she doesn’t find intuitive. I also tested it with my neighbor’s dog, who’s slightly smaller but just as enthusiastic about chewing. It performed equally well, though it did seem like the grip was better suited for thicker bully sticks.

On the downside, I noticed the holder’s compatibility is limited. While it excels with Bow Wow Labs’ SafeFit sticks, it doesn’t work as well with off-brand chews that are thinner or irregularly shaped. This could be frustrating for pet owners who prefer to shop around for different brands or sizes. Additionally, the bright orange color, while eye-catching, might not appeal to everyone. It’s not a dealbreaker, but a few more color options would be nice.

Pros

• Safety-focused design: Prevents choking by securely holding chews in place.
• Durable material: BPA-free nylon is tough and dishwasher-safe.
• Ease of use: Simple to insert bully sticks, and dogs can’t pull them out easily.
• Veterinarian-recommended: Adds peace of mind for conscientious pet owners.
• Perfect for medium dogs: Tailored grip and size make it ideal for the 31-50 pound range.

Cons

• Limited compatibility: Works best with Bow Wow Labs’ SafeFit sticks; less effective with thinner or irregular chews.
• Color options: The bright orange design might not suit all tastes.
• Not chew-proof: While durable, determined chewers might still manage to gnaw on the holder itself.
• Learning curve for dogs: Some pets may need time to adjust to the new device.

Comparison to Competitors

When stacked up against similar products, the Buddy Safety Device holds its own in terms of safety and durability. For example, I’ve previously tried generic chew holders from big-box pet stores, but they lacked the secure grip and thoughtful design of this product. Those other holders either broke after a few uses or allowed my dog to pull the chew out entirely, defeating the purpose.

One competitor, the Kong chew holder, does offer a more universal fit for various chew sizes, but it isn’t nearly as effective at preventing choking hazards. While Kong products are known for their toughness, they don’t provide the same tailored fit for bully sticks as this device. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, you might find a basic holder for less, but you’ll likely sacrifice the safety features that make this one stand out.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Pricing for the Buddy Safety Device puts it in the mid-to-high range for chew holders, which is reasonable considering its focus on safety and durability. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, the peace of mind it offers is worth the investment for many dog owners. Compared to less expensive alternatives that lack proper grip or break after a few uses, this product feels like a smart buy for those who prioritize their pet’s safety during chew time. It’s especially valuable for households like mine, where the dog’s chewing habits border on extreme.

Additional information