Four Reasons Tennis Balls Aren’t Harmless Fun for Dogs
I used to think tennis balls were a cheap, easy toy for my dogs. They were always lying around, easy to throw, and my dogs loved them. But over time, I started to notice the risks. After doing some digging (and one expensive vet visit), I realised tennis balls aren’t as harmless as they seem.
If your dog loves a tennis ball, you’re not alone. But before you throw one again, here are four reasons why they can be dangerous.
Tennis Balls Can Contain Harmful Materials
Tennis balls aren’t designed for dogs. They’re made for humans to hit across a court. That means the materials used are chosen for their durability, bounce, and weather resistance, rather than for safety if chewed or swallowed.
- The outer felt is made from abrasive materials like nylon and wool
- The dyes used for colour can contain chemicals
- The core of the ball may contain pressurised gas or rubber additives
- They’re made to withstand impact, not mouths
The more your dog chews or carries the ball around, the more they’re exposed to these materials. If your dog splits the ball or bites into it regularly, they could be ingesting small fibres or chemicals.
I’ve seen this happen. Sooty, one of the dogs I used to walk, ended up needing a vet trip after swallowing part of a tennis ball. It caused a blockage. He was lucky—we caught it early. But not all dogs are that lucky.
They can pose a Choking Risk.
Choking is one of the most immediate risks, especially for large dogs or those with a tendency to chew aggressively. You might think a tennis ball is big enough not to be swallowed, but once it flattens, it can easily get stuck.
Dogs with strong jaws can compress the ball in seconds. Once flattened, the ball can shift to the back of the throat. In some cases, it snaps back into shape, right where it blocks the airway.
Some dogs also shred the outer layer, pulling off strips of felt. These bits can get stuck in the throat, or worse, travel to the stomach and cause a blockage.
If your dog loves to chew, keep a close eye on any toy they play with. That includes balls. Tennis Balls Wear Down Teeth
This one surprised me when I first learned about it. The outer coating of a tennis ball is more damaging than it looks. It feels soft to us, but to a dog’s teeth, it’s more like sandpaper.
Tennis balls are designed to withstand repeated hits with a racket and rough court surfaces. That tough, fibrous felt holds onto grit and dirt. When your dog chews on it, it acts like an abrasive scrub on their teeth.
Over time, this wears down the enamel. The more they chew, the more damage is done.
Tooth enamel doesn’t grow back. Once it’s worn, dogs are at risk of sensitivity, decay, and even painful infections. I’ve seen older dogs whose molars are flat from years of chewing on tennis balls. It’s not just uncomfortable—it’s avoidable.
They’re Not Meant for Dogs
Dog toys go through safety testing. Tennis balls don’t.
Manufacturers of sporting tennis balls don’t have to consider your dog’s teeth, mouth size, or digestive system. Their job is to make a ball that bounces well and holds up on the court.
But dogs need toys made with safe materials. Toys that won’t shatter. Toys that won’t get stuck in the throat or cause long-term wear on teeth.
It’s easy to think, “It’s just a ball.” But that mindset can cost you more than a few pounds. You could end up with an emergency vet visit or long-term dental work.
Ask yourself—if you wouldn’t let your child chew on a tennis ball, why is it OK for your dog?
Safer Alternatives to Tennis Balls
So, if you have a dog that loves to chase balls, just like my Collie, Missy, used to. That doesn’t mean you have to ban balls completely. You need to pick safer ones.
There are dog-safe alternatives designed to:
- Be the right size for your dog’s mouth
- Use non-toxic materials
- Avoid damage to teeth
- Resist breaking apart
- Float in water or glow in the dark
They can be found at most pet shops or online. Some even squeak or light up. Others have room for treats inside, turning a ball into a food puzzle.
Missy, my old collie, always preferred to sniff out her ball rather than chase it. She’ll follow the scent for ages. Her favourite ball is one with a rough texture that traps smells—it keeps her busy and safe.
If you walk at night or near water, look for floating or glowing objects. There’s something out there for every dog.
Yes, they cost more than a regular tennis ball. But they last longer and save you money in the long run by avoiding injuries.
Dogs That Like to Chew? There’s an Option Too
Some dogs aren’t interested in chasing—they want to chew. If that sounds like your dog, don’t give them a tennis ball to gnaw on.
Instead, try:
- Durable rubber toys like Kong
- Natural chews like pizzle
- Textured toys that clean teeth while being chewed
Chew toys should always be size-appropriate and made for dogs. Watch your dog while they play, and check toys often for damage.
If your dog tends to shred items quickly, opt for rubber-based options and rotate them frequently. You’ll avoid boredom and reduce risk at the same time.
What I Use for My Dogs
I stopped using tennis balls years ago. I now carry a mix of safe dog balls depending on the dog I’m walking.
For fetch, I use rubber Chuckit balls or similar. They’re tough, safe, and easy to clean.
For scent games, I use textured balls with grooves that hold treats or scent.
For chewing, I rely on Kong toys, buffalo horns, and dried chews—never rawhide.
It’s a small change that makes a big difference. And the dogs love them just as much, if not more.
Final Thought
Whilst I understand that tennis balls are everywhere, especially around Wimbledon, stop and think. Is it worth the risk?
There are better, safer, and more dog-friendly options out there. You don’t have to give up games of fetch or chewing time. You must select the right tools for the job.
Because when it comes to your dog’s safety, those small decisions matter.
An article from The Independent on tennis balls is worth reading.