Are Tennis Balls Bad for Dogs? Teeth, Choking and Safer Balls
Updated October 31, 2026
As an Amazon Associate, KrazyPaws earns from qualifying purchases. Links to Amazon are affiliate links. We do not test products ourselves; these guides explain how to compare toy types.
Tennis balls are a classic fetch toy, but they were made for tennis, not for dogs. Most dogs can play with them safely if you watch them, but there are two well-known risks: tooth wear and choking.
The main risks
| Risk | Why it happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Tooth wear | The felt picks up sand and grit and works like sandpaper on teeth when a dog chews it for long periods | Use balls for fetch, not as a chew toy |
| Choking | A standard tennis ball can lodge in the throat of a large dog | Pick a ball too big to fit fully in your dog's mouth |
| Swallowed pieces | Dogs that shred balls may swallow felt and rubber | Take the ball away once it is torn |
The American Kennel Club explains both risks, citing a board-certified veterinary dental specialist, and recommends supervised play and a durable rubber ball for dogs that chew.
Safer ball options
- Solid or thick-walled rubber balls sized for your dog's weight
- Dog-specific fetch balls without abrasive felt
Where to shop
See also toys for aggressive chewers and how to clean dog toys.
Safety
No toy is truly indestructible. Supervise play with any new toy, check toys for cracks, loose pieces or exposed stuffing, and throw out damaged toys. If your dog swallows part of a toy, or shows vomiting, straining or loss of appetite afterward, call your veterinarian.
New guides
Related guides
- Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers: What Actually Holds Up
- Interactive Dog Toys: Types, Uses and How to Pick One
- Puzzle Toys for Dogs: Difficulty Levels and How to Start
- Squeaky Dog Toys: Are They Safe and Which Kind to Get
- Tug Toys for Dogs: How to Choose and Play Safely
Potty training a puppy too? See PottyMat's guides to dog potty pads and indoor potties.