Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker
As a dog walker in San Francisco, I’ve seen countless dogs that absolutely light up when they see a tennis ball. Does your dog love to chase after tennis balls? Even, perhaps, a little obsessed about it? You’re not alone—many dogs go wild for the thrill of fetching these bright green toys. While it’s great to see them having fun, there are a few important things to consider when it comes to dogs and tennis balls.
The Joy (and Risk) of Tennis Balls
Tennis balls are a fantastic way to exercise your dog and keep them mentally engaged. I’ve used them countless times to tire out a high-energy dog at Golden Gate Park or Fort Funston. However, as fun as tennis balls are, there’s a hidden risk most dog owners don’t think about.
Something you need to keep in mind is that a tennis ball is made of abrasive material that can quickly wear down your dog’s teeth. Some dogs love them so much that their teeth have ground down to little nubs. That is important because a dog must have their teeth last a lifetime, and you definitely want to protect them whenever you can.
Alternatives to Traditional Tennis Balls
If your dog is one of those tennis ball fanatics, it’s worth considering alternatives to protect their teeth. Rubber chuck-it balls are a great substitute. These balls are durable, easy to clean, and, most importantly, don’t have the abrasive properties of regular tennis balls. When I take dogs out to the park, I always recommend owners switch to rubber balls if I notice excessive wear on their teeth.
So, why don’t more people make the change to rubber balls? For starters, not all dogs experience dental issues with tennis balls. It’s a matter of keeping an eye on your dog’s teeth to determine if adjustments are necessary. Another factor is cost—rubber balls tend to be pricier, and if your dog has a habit of leaving their toys behind in bushes or tall grass, it can get expensive quickly.
Safety Tips for Tennis Ball at Play
As a dog walker, safety is always my top priority, which extends to playtime with tennis balls. Here are a few tips to keep your dog safe while they’re having fun:
- Inspect Your Dog’s Teeth: Regularly check your dog’s teeth for signs of wear. If you notice flattening or chipping, it’s time to reconsider tennis balls.
- Monitor Their Play: If your dog is chewing aggressively on the ball, take it away and redirect their attention to a chew toy. Chewing can turn a harmless game into a dental hazard.
- Beware of Squeakers: If your ball has squeakers, keep an eye open to ensure your dog does not chew the ball to get the parts out. They can choke on the squeaker parts inside the ball if they get them out. Always supervise squeaker play to prevent accidents.
- Replace Damaged Balls: A torn or damaged tennis ball can become a choking hazard. Toss it out and replace it with a fresh one.
The Joy of Fetch Without the Risks
Playing fetch with tennis balls is a wonderful way to bond with your dog and give them the exercise they need. But, as with all aspects of pet care, balance is key. Whether I’m out on a walk with a pack of dogs or playing one-on-one with a client’s pup, I always keep an eye on the toys they’re using to ensure they’re both fun and safe.
If you’re worried about the risks associated with dogs and tennis balls, switching to rubber balls or mixing up their toy selection can make a big difference. This is another way in which your dog will still be getting all of the fun involved with your dog chasing and retrieving something because it can be kept fun but not cause any lasting dental problems.
Closing Thoughts
Every dog is different, and some may have no issues with tennis balls at all. However, it’s important to keep an eye on their behavior and their teeth. I am a dog walker and have witnessed how many dogs adore their tennis ball play and the issues it can lead to. So be proactive and consider using things like rubber chuck-it balls; that way, both your furry friend and your wallet will be ready for the next adventure!
So whether your dog spends time poking through the dog-friendly parks of San Francisco or is just playing in your yard, a touch of extra attention to your pup’s toys is good insurance. Oh, and you really should also peek inside those bushes—no one likes to see their favorite ball lost to the foliage!
