Tennis balls are arguably one of the most beloved dog toys around. Some dogs will even lose their minds at the sight of a tennis ball.
Unfortunately, these balls can pose health risks for dogs, including choking, dental damage, and digestion issues.
However, there are also plenty of great things about quality tennis balls.
Now, you’re probably wondering, can dogs play with tennis balls? Keep reading to find out.
How can dogs safely play with tennis balls?
Sure, there are a few risks to worry about when your dog plays with tennis balls. The good news is that you can do some things to minimize these risks. These include:
Consider the ball’s durability
For starters, you need to choose a durable tennis ball that will hold up to the powerful jaws of your k9. Simply put, the ball should hold up well, even if you have a chewing monster for a pet.
With this in mind, choose a ball made from indestructible and hard-wearing materials. Generally, some of the best tennis balls are made from extra-durable rubber with non-abrasive felt.
Supervise play sessions
Most dogs like to chew on tennis balls, which can cause choking and dental wear. The good news is that offering supervised play sessions can minimize these risks.
So, never allow your pup to play with the ball when you’re not there to supervise. That way, you can ensure your pooch is not in danger of swallowing or choking on the pieces of the ball.
Create a dedicated play zone
Additionally, you must let your pup play with the tennis ball only in an enclosed and hazard-free place. This will make it easy to supervise the play sessions.
Dog parks are generally an excellent choice. However, you can also create a dedicated play zone in your backyard.
Play fetch only
Also worth mentioning is that you should only use the ball to play fetch games.
So, don’t leave it around the house where your pooch can get it anytime. You don’t want the dog to gnaw on the ball all day.
Learn tennis ball risks
If tennis balls are a regular fetch toy in your household, you need to know about the concerns around them. Check them out.
Choking
Dogs have powerful jaws. As such, your pooch might not have a problem chewing through the ball and ingesting those pieces.
When this happens, the ball pieces can become lodged in your dog’s throat and block the airway.
Consequently, this may lead to choking. However, this can be prevented with supervision.
Dental damage
Another potential risk with tennis balls is that they may damage your dog’s teeth. The neon yellow fuzz on the outer surface of the ball is abrasive.
So, when your pooch chomps on the ball, the fuzz wears down his teeth, which may lead to dental issues.
Digestion problems
As it turns out, the neon yellow or yellow-green fuzz is dangerous to your pup’s teeth and stomach. Ingesting too much of this material can lead to intestinal blockages, causing digestion issues.
Potential health issues
Playing with tennis balls can be fun and engaging for pets and children, but being vigilant about potential health issues is essential.
Here are some tips to help you identify signs that might indicate a problem:
Monitor physical reactions: Watch for any discomfort during or after play. This includes limping, favoring one side, or reluctance to move.
Watch out for excessive panting, coughing, or signs of respiratory distress, especially if they play energetically.
Inspect for injuries: After playtime, check for any cuts, bruises, or signs of wear on your pet’s mouth or paws from biting or fetching tennis balls.
Look for any swelling or unusual lumps around the mouth or body where the ball may have caused trauma.
Observe behavioral changes: Changes in behavior can indicate potential issues and threats to your dog’s health. If your pet suddenly loses interest in chasing the ball or shows lethargy, it could be a sign of discomfort or pain.
Be cautious if your pet becomes overly aggressive or anxious while playing, which could suggest stress or an underlying issue.
Check for toxic material exposure: Ensure the tennis ball is safe and made from non-toxic materials. If your pet frequently chews or ingests parts of the ball, look for symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Be aware of any signs of allergic reactions, such as excessive itching, paw licking, or swelling around the face or mouth after contact with the tennis ball.
Monitor dental health: Repeated chewing on tennis balls may wear down teeth or cause dental issues.
Look for signs of bleeding gums, difficulty eating, or foul breath, which can indicate dental problems.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial if your pet frequently engages with tennis balls.
Keep regular vet check-ups: Regular veterinary visits are essential for maintaining your pet’s health.
Discuss their play habits and any concerns about using tennis balls.
Your vet can offer specific advice or recommendations on safe toys and how to monitor your pet’s overall health.
Safe tennis ball alternatives
When selecting toys for dogs, safety should always be a top priority.
Here are some types of toys considered safe for dogs:
Rubber toys: Durable rubber toys like a rubber ball are great for chewing and can withstand wear and tear.
Brands specializing in indestructible toys often provide chew-proof options and have squeakers to keep dogs engaged.
Nylon bones: These chew toys satisfy a dog’s natural chewing instincts. Look for nylon bones designed for your dog’s size to prevent choking hazards.
Plush toys with reinforced seams: While not as durable as rubber or nylon, some plush toys are designed with reinforced seams. These toys can provide comfort and companionship, but supervise your dog while they play to prevent any ingestion of stuffing or squeakers if they tear the toy.
Interactive puzzle toys: Puzzle toys challenge your dog mentally and keep them entertained for hours.
They often have compartments to hide treats, encouraging dogs to figure out how to access their rewards.
Rope toys: Made of natural fibers, rope toys can be a fun way to play tug-of-war. They also help clean teeth as dogs chew.
Check to ensure the ropes aren’t fraying or breaking apart.
Fetch toys: Balls or flying discs designed for dogs are perfect for chasing and retrieving.
Choose non-toxic options for canines, and ensure the size is appropriate for your dog’s mouth.
Water-resistant toys: If your dog loves to play in water, look for toys specifically designed for water play.
These are often made of buoyant materials, ensuring they last longer in wet conditions.
Always supervise your dog during playtime, check toys regularly for wear and tear, and replace them as needed.
The bottom line on tennis balls
Playing with tennis balls poses a risk, but you don’t need to throw them out.
If you take the necessary steps to prevent the potential risks, your dog can play with tennis balls. You may want to purchase balls that are specifically made for dogs.
If your dog chews on the ball, take it away.
But if you’re concerned about your dog’s health, you can opt for other safe options for our dog’s playtime.