Are Tennis Balls Toxic to Dogs?

Many dogs love playing fetch with tennis balls. It seems like the perfect toy: it bounces, it rolls, and it fits right in your dog’s mouth. But as a responsible pet owner, you might wonder—are tennis balls safe, or worse, could they be toxic to dogs?

While tennis balls are not poisonous in themselves, they do come with several hidden risks. The fuzzy material, rubber core, and potential chemicals used in some brands may cause health problems.

Add to that the risks of choking or dental wear, and you can see why it’s important to understand the dangers before tossing one to your dog.

Are Tennis Balls Actually Toxic?

The short answer is no—tennis balls are not toxic in the sense of being poisonous. Most are made of rubber and covered with nylon or wool felt. These materials are not designed for dogs, but they don’t contain toxins that will poison your pet if simply chewed or carried.

The problem comes from:

• Chemical treatments: Some cheap tennis balls may use dyes or glues that can irritate your dog’s mouth or stomach.

• Non-food grade rubber: Unlike dog toys, tennis balls aren’t tested for pet safety. Long-term chewing may release harmful compounds.

• Choking hazard: Dogs that chew apart tennis balls risk swallowing rubber pieces, which can block the throat or intestines.

So while they aren’t “toxic” like chocolate or grapes, tennis balls are not fully safe for dogs either.

The Dangers of Chewing on Tennis Balls

Dogs love the texture of tennis balls, but that fuzzy green surface is where many problems start.

• Dental wear: The rough felt acts like sandpaper on teeth. Over time, it can grind down enamel, leading to pain and dental disease.

• Felt ingestion: If swallowed, the fibers can cause stomach upset or blockages.

• Rubber fragments: Strong chewers may break the ball and swallow chunks of rubber.

This makes tennis balls especially risky for dogs that are heavy chewers, such as Labradors, German Shepherds, or Pit Bulls.

Choking and Blockage Risks

One of the most serious dangers is choking. Dogs that try to carry or compress the ball in their mouth may accidentally lodge it in the throat.

• Small balls for big dogs: If the ball is too small, it can slip into the airway.

• Torn pieces: Dogs that rip the ball can swallow fragments, leading to dangerous intestinal blockages.

• Emergency risk: A blocked airway or stomach obstruction requires immediate veterinary care.

For this reason, always choose the right size ball for your dog and supervise play.

Chemicals and Safety Concerns

Unlike pet-safe toys, tennis balls are designed for sport, not chewing. That means manufacturers don’t always follow safety standards for dogs.

• Industrial glues and dyes may irritate sensitive mouths.

• Lead and other heavy metals have been found in some imported brands.

• Non-food safe rubber can break down with saliva and chewing.

While a few chews won’t usually poison your dog, repeated chewing and ingestion can increase exposure over time.

Are Dog-Safe Tennis Balls Available?

Yes, many pet companies make tennis balls specifically for dogs. These versions look similar but are designed with safety in mind.

• Non-abrasive felt that won’t grind teeth

• Non-toxic, food-grade materials

• Variety of sizes to prevent choking

• Durable rubber cores that resist breaking

Brands like Kong, Chuckit!, and PetSafe make excellent alternatives to standard tennis balls. They give you the same fun without the risks.

What To Do If Your Dog Swallows Part of a Tennis Ball

Accidents happen, especially with playful dogs. If you suspect your dog swallowed felt or rubber from a tennis ball:

1. Stay calm and check the mouth for any lodged pieces.

2. Look for choking signs such as gagging, pawing at the mouth, or difficulty breathing.

3. Call your vet immediately if your dog can’t breathe or is in distress.

4. Monitor for blockage symptoms such as vomiting, lack of appetite, or constipation.

Never wait if you suspect a blockage—intestinal surgery may be needed.

Safe Alternatives to Tennis Balls

The good news is you don’t have to give up fetch. Many safer options exist.

• Rubber fetch balls (Kong, Chuckit! Ultra Ball) – durable and safe for teeth.

• Rope toys – good for tug and supervised play.

• Frisbees for dogs – softer than human frisbees and safe for catching.

• Natural rubber balls – food-grade and long-lasting.

These options let your dog enjoy the same fun without health risks.

Which Dogs Should Avoid Tennis Balls?

While some dogs may play with tennis balls occasionally without issues, others face higher risks.

• Large breed dogs that can easily choke on a tennis ball.

• Heavy chewers who quickly tear apart toys.

• Dogs with dental problems who may suffer faster enamel wear.

• Puppies that may swallow small pieces during play.

For these dogs, it’s best to skip tennis balls entirely and choose safer toys.

The Bottom Line

So, are tennis balls toxic to dogs? Not in the sense of poisoning, but they carry hidden dangers. The rough felt, possible chemicals, and choking risks make them unsafe for regular chewing or unsupervised play.

If your dog loves the game of fetch, switch to dog-safe balls designed for pets. With the right choice, you can protect your dog’s health while still enjoying their favorite game.

FAQs

Are tennis balls poisonous to dogs?

No, tennis balls are not poisonous. However, they are not made with dogs in mind. The rubber and felt can cause stomach upset or blockages if swallowed. They may also wear down your dog’s teeth. That’s why experts recommend using dog-safe tennis balls instead of regular sporting ones for safer playtime.

Can dogs choke on tennis balls?

Yes, choking is a serious risk. Standard tennis balls can fit too tightly in a large dog’s throat and block the airway. Dogs that chew aggressively may also rip off pieces that get stuck. Always choose balls sized for your dog and never allow unsupervised play with regular tennis balls.

Why do tennis balls damage dog teeth?

The fuzzy surface of a tennis ball is abrasive, similar to sandpaper. When dogs chew and carry them often, this rough felt wears down tooth enamel. Over time, this can cause pain, sensitivity, and dental disease. Dog-safe versions use softer, non-abrasive felt to prevent this problem and protect your pet’s teeth.

What happens if my dog eats part of a tennis ball?

If your dog eats felt or rubber, it may cause vomiting, stomach pain, or intestinal blockage. Small pieces sometimes pass on their own, but larger ones can get stuck. If your dog shows signs like gagging, loss of appetite, or constipation, call your vet immediately. Surgery may be needed in severe cases.

What are the best alternatives to tennis balls for dogs?

Safer choices include dog-specific fetch balls like the Kong Ball, Chuckit! Ultra Ball, or natural rubber toys. These are made from non-toxic materials, come in different sizes, and are gentle on teeth. Frisbees and rope toys also make excellent alternatives. Always pick a toy matched to your dog’s size and chewing style.