When most people picture a dog playing fetch, they imagine a bright green fuzzy tennis ball.
But did you know that tennis balls are actually one of the worst types of balls for many dogs?
Why?
They can wear down teeth.
The fuzzy outer surface of a tennis ball is surprisingly abrasive – it’s a bit like chewing on sandpaper. Over time, repeatedly chewing and carrying tennis balls can wear away the enamel, flatten the crowns of the teeth, and eventually expose the pulp inside. This condition is so common that veterinarians have a name for it: “tennis ball teeth”. It can be painful and may eventually require dental treatment.
They can become a choking or obstruction hazard.
Some dogs can accidentally get a tennis ball stuck in the back of their throat while playing fetch. Others chew the ball into pieces and swallow them, which can lead to serious intestinal obstructions.
So what do you do?
Instead, look for balls specifically designed for dogs. For example, rubber balls aren’t abrasive on teeth. One of my favourites is the Chuckit! Breathe Right Ball, which allows air to pass through the ball if it becomes lodged in a dog’s throat, reducing the risk of suffocation.
And don’t just take my word for it—veterinarians around the world have been warning about the risks of tennis balls for years.
