Fetch and outdoor toys that last

Size the ball to the dog

Size matters more than anything else. Balls that are too small can lodge in a dog's throat, and Cornell's Riney Canine Health Center warns that a small tennis ball could choke a large dog.^[2],[1]

• Too big to swallow. The ball should be large enough that your dog can't fit the whole thing in their mouth, but still comfortable to carry.^[2],[3]
• Match the ball to your dog. Toys should suit the size of the dog. A ball that's fine for a small dog can be a choking risk for a big one.^[3],[1]
• Retire damaged balls. Damaged toys can break apart during play, so toss balls that are cracked, split, or chewed down.^[2]
• Some balls have a hole. Some balls are made with a hole through the middle to help a dog keep breathing if the ball gets stuck in the mouth or throat.^[2]

Skip the sticks, go easy on tennis balls

Sticks are free and everywhere, which is why so many dogs get hurt by them. They can splinter and scratch the mouth, get stuck in the throat or stomach, and in the worst cases pierce a dog's throat.^[4]

• Hard on teeth, too. Hard things like sticks, rocks, and bones can damage or break teeth.^[5]
• Trip hazard. Long sticks can cause injuries if your dog trips while running with one.^[1]
• Bring a real toy. Vets suggest rubber sticks, balls, and flying discs instead.^[4]

Tennis balls are fine for a game now and then, but they aren't made for dogs. A board-certified veterinary dentist quoted by the AKC says the fuzz is quite abrasive, and dirt and sand make it worse. Over time the coating can wear down tooth enamel, especially in dogs who carry or chew balls a lot. A smooth rubber ball avoids the problem.^[6],[2]

Throw smart and watch the heat

A ball launcher lets you throw farther with less strain on your arm, and you never have to touch a slobbery ball. Farther throws mean more running for your dog, though, so how you throw matters.

• Keep it low. Don't let your dog leap up to catch the ball. Big leaps and twists often lead to injuries.^[1]
• Let it land. Sprinting with sharp turns and sudden stops can cause injuries. Ask your dog to wait until the ball has landed before they go.^[1]
• Make them search. Throw into tall grass or brush now and then so your dog has to use their nose. A tired brain beats tired legs.^[1]
• Watch the tongue. If your dog's tongue curls at the edges or gets wider at the tip, they're getting tired. Stop before their muscles are worn out.^[1]

Fetch in the water

For lakes and pools, use a toy that floats high and is easy to see. A ball that sinks or drifts low is hard for your dog to find and grab. Before the first throw, keep a few basics in mind.

• Not every dog can swim. Don't assume your dog knows how. A dog life jacket is a good idea, and stocky breeds like bulldogs and pugs should wear one whenever they go in.^[9]
• Stay close. Never leave your dog alone around water. Even strong swimmers can hit currents or struggle to get out of a pool.^[9]
• Take land breaks. Dogs can swallow too much water while fetching a ball from a lake, which can cause water intoxication. Have your dog play on land every 10 to 15 minutes. Small dogs, very lean dogs, and high-energy dogs are more at risk.^[10]
• Bring drinking water. Offer fresh water so your dog doesn't drink from the pool, lake, or ocean.^[9]

Pick a color your dog can see

Dogs don't see in black and white, but they see fewer colors than we do. They have two types of color cones instead of our three. They can see blue well but have trouble telling red, green, and yellow apart.^[11]

Colors that we see as green, orange, or red can be hard for a dog to tell apart. So a bright orange or red ball that pops for you may blend into the grass for your dog. A blue toy is the safest bet on a green lawn. Try our See it like your dog tool to compare toy colors the way your dog might see them.^[12],[11]