Interestingly, the ball is infused with mint oil. I noticed that this made the ball easier for our dogs to find, particularly when sniffing around for it in long grass. A broken tennis ball can be swallowed, and the pieces are sharp enough to do serious damage to your pup’s organs. Furthermore, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards of excessive ball throwing. Joint injuries and obsessive behavior are just a few of the risks associated with overdoing this activity. Moderation is key when it comes to playing fetch with your dog.

The medium was the perfect size for our Pug tester since she could grab the edges. I wouldn’t recommend the small size for anything other than a toy breed. Another great feature is that this ball is a little unpredictable. If you look closely, you notice that the Jive Ball isn’t completely round. Instead, it has small sections that protrude out. It’s no secret that dogs love tennis balls. The small, flexible shape makes them easy to carry by dogs of all sizes. Now, you could argue that if you take away the green fuzz, then these are no longer tennis balls. I agree with you. But to keep things simple, I refer to these as dog tennis balls throughout the rest of the review.

How to Play With Tennis Balls Safely

Unfortunately, all this comes at a price. Like the West Paw Jive, this is one of the most expensive tennis ball alternatives on the market. But included in the price is a replacement guarantee. At the time of writing, Planet Dog will replace the toy once in the event it fails. While this makes the price more appealing, you will cringe if you are on a tight budget. The small is about the same size as a regulation tennis ball and fits in a standard-sized ball thrower. But where this ball really shines is in a wide, open field. When loaded into my ball thrower and launched, I could hear the whistle from over 100 feet away.

For indoor play, the StarMark Durafoam Ball was great. It’s soft, not too bouncy and surprisingly durable at a reasonable price. If you only play games of fetch in your living room, then there is a lot to love about this ball. But outside, it can’t be thrown as far and doesn’t bounce as high as our recommendations above. Choosing the right size ball for your dog is crucial to ensure their safety and enjoyment. It is recommended to select a ball that is slightly larger than your dog’s mouth to prevent choking hazards. Small and medium-sized dogs can usually play with popular tennis balls, but for larger breeds, it is important to opt for bigger and more durable options. Consulting with a veterinarian can provide guidance on the appropriate size and type of ball for your dog’s specific needs. While traditional balls are a popular choice for dogs, there are also alternatives available. Consider using toys that are specifically designed to be safe and durable for heavy chewers. Some options include rubber balls with treat dispensers or balls made of tough materials that are virtually indestructible. These alternatives can provide your dog with mental stimulation and entertainment while minimizing the risk of injury. Experiment with different types of toys to find what best suits your dog’s preferences and needs. Dangers of Excessive Ball Throwing

Tennis balls are the quintessential modern dog toy. My dog can sniff them out of roadside ditches, and nothing gives her as much joy as chasing after them in a wide-open field. However, tennis balls are a special toy in our household, reserved for supervised playtime. In my opinion, the only owners who wouldn’t benefit from a dog tennis ball are those who don’t play fetch with their pup. If this is you, then spend your money on a different toy, such as a tug-of-war toy. But for those who play fetch, whether in an open grassy field or the corridor of your home, a dog tennis ball is a substantially better option than a regular tennis ball. Will a tennis ball kill your dog? Probably not. But the above dangers are real. At the end of the day, tennis balls are designed to be hit around a tennis court, not chased or gnawed on by your dog. After I reviewed all the different erratic balls, I concluded… They are unsuitable for older dogs or those with hip problems. After watching our dogs frantically change direction mid-run to keep up with the ball, I believe it would be straining on senior pooches.