Guide to Playing Fetch Safely

Fetch is a classic and much-loved game for dog owners. However, there are a few concerns that come with this activity. Here is some key advice for playing fetch safely.

Never Throw Sticks

As tempting as it is to throw a few sticks for your dog on a walk, this seemingly innocent action can result in horrendous injury.

There is a risk of splintering, swallowing pieces and the risk of impalement injury. Avoid the unnecessary stress and vet trip and stick to throwing safe toys on walks.

Choose your Ball Carefully

For many dogs, balls are the most exciting thing to ever exist. There are some things to consider when it comes to choosing the right ball for your walk:

• Ensure the ball isn’t too small, as this will be a choking hazard.
• Ensure the ball isn’t too heavy, this could result in injury if the dog tries to catch them.
• Ensure the coating isn’t too rough- cheaper tennis balls over time can cause damage to teeth. Always stick to high quality pet tennis balls.

Balls on ropes can be a fantastic retrieval toys, as they can be used for fetch and tugging/ interactive games.

Look for Easy to Pick up Toys

Keep in mind some breeds and dogs will struggle with using types of toys. Flat faced breeds such as Pugs or French Bulldogs, may struggle to get any grip on toys such as frisbees.

Head over to your local Pets Corner store to see our wide range of exciting toys.

For tips on making every walk more exciting, read our guide on Making Dog Walks More Fun.