To throw or not to throw? That is the question!
The quintessential image of a dog walk used to be a walk in wellies, possibly across a field or in woodland with a dog having a great time chasing a ball or a stick. Or at least that’s how I always pictured it growing up.
The dream never involved poo bags, which comes as a sad reality to dog owners. So why else might this image not be suitable?
Ask almost any vet whether throwing sticks for your dog is a good idea and you will get the same answer.
We've all seen far too many stick-based injuries in the mouth and throat that can have serious consequences, so we will never recommend throwing sticks. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) also warn against this.
So there are now plenty of alternatives available for this sort of exercise, but what might be wrong with the humble ball?
Regular physical exercise is essential in the health of almost every dog and playing fetch has many benefits:
- It is great physical exercise, involving running, jumping and directional change that help improve heart health, muscles and can ensure dogs stay a healthy weight.
- It is mentally stimulating for dogs and for some breeds this mental challenge is especially important to ensure they settle after exercise.
- It helps strengthen the bond between owner and dog since shared play and enjoyment play a huge role in the bond we all enjoy with our pets.
However there are some risks to consider with playing fetch with your dog:
- Joint issues – some dogs may have had joint injuries in the past or in very young animals their joints are still developing. Overdoing high-impact play will increase the risk of joint problems if done at the wrong stage in their life or with the wrong animal.
- Inappropriate ball size – balls that are too small can be a choking hazard to dogs, make sure you pick something suitable that cannot be swallowed!
- Overstimulation – some dogs can be become ball obsessive and this can lead onto other behavioural issues.
- Osteoarthritis – this is a common condition, especially in older dogs, and such high-impact exercise can exacerbate this condition and lead to more pain and discomfort.
So if fetch is not suitable for your dog do not despair, there are plenty of alternatives that can help keep them fit, mentally active and help you bond with them.
Scent trails are great for breeds that like to have their nose to the ground, puzzle toys and feeders can really help with mental stimulus for those that are not able to be as active.
For dogs with osteoarthritis, meanwhile, exercise such as hydrotherapy – a low-impact exercise method using warm water that aims to promote rehabilitation from injuries – can be a great alternative without being as challenging on the joints.
So weigh up the pros and cons, and if you do have a dog suitable for fetch and a ball that will do the job then get throwing! But do have a limit – they can’t do it forever even if some of them would like to!
Top image: Getty Images
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