The Hidden Risks of Ball Throwing for Your Dog's Health

Playing fetch with our dogs has long been the daily norm. For those dogs whom are ball obsessed, its wonderful to watch them get so much joy out of doing what they love. Not to mention the satisfaction for us, knowing we will (maybe) get a few hours of peace as our high energy dog crashes out into a post-walk coma.

But could ball throwing be secretly mentally and physically damaging to our dogs?

Understanding the Mechanics of Fetch

When your dog runs for a ball, they engage in actions like sprinting, jumping, turning and braking quickly, with at least the occasional fall and collision with objects.

While these movements are instinctive, they can put significant strain on your dog's body. Fast, repetitive motions can lead to joint and muscle stress, increasing the risk of injuries such as cruciate ligament rupture.

A dog that retrieves a ball five times in quick succession at full speed could experience the same level of strain as a runner after sprinting a short distance. How many times do you throw the ball in your typical fetch session?

Common Injuries Associated with Ball Fetching

1. Joint Strain and Ligament Injuries: One of the most significant risks is joint strain, predisposing dogs to early arthritis later in life. Ligament tears that dont require surgery often have long recovery times of 8 months +, with those that are treatable by surgery like cruciate ligament rupture requiring extensive rehabilitation to return to normal function.

   
   

2. Muscle tension and Injuries: Active breeds are particularly prone to build extensive muscle tension accross the body from intense play. Without proper conditioning, warm-up and breaks a dog may sustain tears and avulsions similar to those experienced by athletes.

   
   

3. Overheating and Exhaustion: As dogs run, they can quickly overheat, especially on warm days. Vigorous outdoor activities without breaks can cause heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. This can lead to serious health issues, including organ failure.

   
   

4. Dental Damage: Fetching can also harm your dog's teeth. Many dogs experience dental issues from aggressive chewing on hard balls.

   
   

Understanding the Psychology of Fetch

Many dogs like to play fetch due to their instinctive nature to chase prey, as their ancestors would have done to feed themselves. This, combined with bred in working dog traits like chasing (sheep) and retrieving (game etc), can make some dogs susceptible to obsess over a ball. All they care about is their ball, and it being thrown, constantly. Sound familiar? We all know at least one dog like this.

These kinds of dogs go completely blank behind the eyes when they see their ball, with no care for the world around them, or their own self preservation. This obsession is unhealthy, as they are often in a constant state of overstimulation, winding themselves up tighter with every throw, unable to stop. This kind of high adrenaline activity is counterproductive for these dogs, often leaving them wired post-play, struggling to settle.

Alternatives to Ball Throwing

While traditional fetch can be suitable for some dogs, there are enjoyable alternatives that provide exercise and mental stimulation without compromising your dog's mental and physical health.

1. Interactive Toys/puzzles: Toys that dispense treats can engage your dog while allowing them to play safely. These toys provide both mental stimulation and physical activity, keeping your dog entertained without the risks. Its also a great weight maintenance tool!

   
   

2. Sniffari walks: For dogs with a good nose, encouraging engagement with their environment is a fantastic way to burn energy and mentally stimulate dogs without the strain.

   
   

3. Exercise activities: Agility, flyball, hoopers, man trailing etc! All fantastic activities for high energy working dogs that need constructive mental stimulation, as well as an outlet for energy. Training for these kinds of activities can be incorporated into daily garden and walk play.

   
   

4. Training sessions: Similar to specific activities, getting your dog to engage in safe, fun strength and fitness exercises with you is a great way to strengthen your bond, as well as their body!

   
   

5. Swimming: For water-loving dogs, swimming is an excellent non-impact exercise. It is gentle on the joints, improves strength and fitness and is a quick energy burner! Even better take your dog to hydrotherapy once a week, you wont regret the benefits!

   
   

6. Ball retrieving: If you must continue to use your dogs ball, try different variations of fetch, such as asking them to sit and stay while you hide it. This takes away a lot of the strain from throwing themselves into the air or at the ground to catch a moving ball.

The Role of Professional Guidance

Regular check-ups with a vet and Physical Therapist can catch underlying injuries or conditions like arthritis early on, allowing you to adjust play styles accordingly.

Additionally, trainers/behaviourists can help develop safe play habits while keeping activities enjoyable. With their knowledge, you can establish a balanced routine that prioritises your dog’s health without sacrificing fun.

Prioritising Your Dog’s Health and Safety

While playing fetch may seem harmless, the risks can be significant. From joint injuries to dental damage to overstimulation, these consequences can have lasting effects, especially for those whom are ball obsessed. Fortunately, there are many alternative activities that provide excitement and exercise without the hazards.

A dog playing fetch in an open field