Kathrine Frich
A vet has sparked a wave of concern among dog owners after revealing seven common toys he would never allow his own dog to play with.
A vet has sparked a wave of concern among dog owners after revealing seven common toys he would never allow his own dog to play with.
7 “Dangerous” Dog Toys
Alex Crow, known on social media as @alex_thevet, says that despite being widely sold in pet stores, some popular toys pose serious risks to dogs’ health — from broken teeth to internal injuries and choking hazards.
Here’s his full list of no-go toys and what to use instead.
1. Tennis Balls: A Sandpaper for Teeth
Tennis balls might seem harmless, but Crow warns they can wreak havoc on your dog’s mouth.
The fuzzy coating traps dirt and grit, effectively turning them into sandpaper. Over time, this can erode enamel and even lead to tooth damage.
Worse still, they’re a choking risk for larger breeds. Crow recommends opting for dog-safe tennis balls with built-in breathing holes instead.
2. Squeaky Toys: Surgery Waiting to Happen
Many dogs love a squeaky toy, but that little noisemaker inside can be a serious hazard.
Crow explains that when dogs tear these toys apart, they can swallow the squeaker, which often ends in an emergency vet visit and possible surgery.
If your dog is a toy-destroyer, consider sound-free plush toys or tougher alternatives made for aggressive chewers.
3. Rope Toys: Gut Blockage Risk
Rope toys may seem ideal for tug-of-war, but the threads can come loose and when swallowed, pose a grave danger.
These fibers can cause blockages in the intestines, which are often life-threatening and require surgery.
Instead, Crow recommends rubber tug toys that don’t fray or shred.
4. Antlers and Hard Bones: Tooth Breakers
Natural doesn’t always mean safe. Crow says antlers and dense bones can fracture your dog’s teeth, especially molars. This can lead to painful abscesses, root damage, and costly dental treatment.
A better option? Look for dental-safe chews that clean teeth without risking breakage.
5. Plastic Water Bottles: Shards of Danger
Letting your dog chew on a plastic water bottle might look cute, but it’s far from harmless.
Once punctured, the bottle can splinter into sharp shards, cutting your dog’s mouth or causing internal injuries.
Crow recommends avoiding bottles entirely and using crinkly toys that mimic the sound safely.
6. Toys with Batteries: Toxic and Corrosive
This one may seem obvious, but it’s too dangerous to ignore.
If your dog gets into a battery-powered toy and punctures the battery, it can cause toxic and corrosive injuries. potentially fatal if swallowed.
Always ensure that any interactive or electronic toy is dog-proof, or better yet, skip battery toys altogether.
7. Toys Filled with Plastic Beads: Hidden Hazard
Toys stuffed with plastic pellets or beads might be marketed as “stimulating,” but Crow warns they’re a digestive disaster waiting to happen.
If the toy splits open, the beads can be swallowed, leading to internal damage or blockages.
Go for solid-fill or reinforced plush toys with non-toxic stuffing.
A Final Word of Advice from the Vet
Just because a toy is sold in a pet store doesn’t make it safe.
“There are just safer alternatives out there,” Crow explains.
The key is to choose the right size, the right materials, and the right durability for your dog’s breed, chewing style, and age.
By staying informed and cautious, dog owners can help prevent accidents, and keep playtime both fun and safe.
