Is It OK To Play Ball with Your Dog?

Football is the buzzword this summer, and as the weather gets warmer, a game or two of football is all the more tempting. However, if you want to get your dog involved, you may need to make some adjustments to the game. Why not get your dog involved in some of our recommended safe ball games and have some fun at Euro 2020.

Use Puzzle Balls

Puzzle balls are a great way to keep your pet entertained and focused. Filled with their favourite treats or food, they provide mental stimulation for your four-legged friend that can be more tiring than a regular walk – which might give you enough time to watch some football undisturbed. Pets can use their noses and feet to shake and move the ball – so you might find your pet ‘dribbling’ like a pro.

Try different ball shapes

Football-sized balls are generally safer for dogs, but dogs will struggle to pick up large spherical balls in their mouths! Therefore, it’s worth investing in a few different shaped toys that they can grip properly. Football-style, mesh-style or textured balls are all more likely to be held in your pet's mouth - or if you want to stick with a more classic football, try a softer ball or a partially deflated ball that your dog may find easier to carry.

It's important to make sure you choose the right size toy for your pet. Mini footballs, golf balls or tennis balls can all pose a choking risk for dogs (especially large breeds who can easily swallow them).

Be aware of the weather

Avoid outdoor play on hot or humid days. An obsession with the ball can mean a dog doesn't stop when they should, causing them to overheat, even if the weather doesn't seem to be warming up. Almost 3 in 4 cases of heat stroke are caused by exercising in hot weather, so be sure to consider the temperature before you start a game, especially in the middle of the day.

Dogs need to warm up, too

Like football players, dogs can suffer strains and sprains (or even more serious injuries) during intense play. A warm-up and cool-down should be part of the activity; this could be a relaxing walk before a game.

Know when to stop

There are always risks with over-exercising your dog, so close supervision is essential to avoid accidents. Slowly increase the amount of exercise, keeping it shorter at first so your dog can build muscle and endurance.

Some ball-obsessed dogs may become overly excited and fail to realize it's time to stop, which in extreme cases can lead to sprains, injuries, or heat stroke. Make sure your dog has clear commands so they know the game is over and they need to calm down.

It's also important to check your dog's ball regularly during and after play. Choking or intestinal obstruction is also a potential hazard as broken balls may be swallowed during excitement, so check toys regularly for signs of damage.