Why You Shouldn’t Give Your Cavoodle a Tennis Ball

Dogs in general, love to play with balls. My Bambi loves them and playing with balls is one of her fave things to do.  

A common ball parents often give them is a tennis ball, which seems innocent enough right? Although tennis balls might seem like the perfect toy for a fun game of fetch with your Cavoodle (lightweight, bouncy, and easy to find),  they can cause serious problems ranging from dental damage to choking hazards and even toxic chemical exposure. 

To help you fully understand why tennis balls aren’t the best choice for your Cavoodle, I've broken it down for you here and shared some safer alternatives that keep playtime fun and worry-free.

What are the Hidden Dangers of Tennis Balls for Cavoodles

Image reference: The Hidden Hazards of Tennis Balls

Tennis balls might be cheap but they were never designed with pet safety in mind. We might see that a Cavoodle is joyfully enjoying playing with its tennis balls, but there are potential dangers you may not have considered. From toxic chemicals to dental damage, choking hazards, and even joint strain, tennis balls are far from the ideal dog toy.

1. It has Toxic Materials & Chemicals

The standard tennis balls are meant and manufactured for sports, not for pets. This means that safety standards for human use don’t necessarily translate to dog safety. Some tennis balls contain harmful chemicals, including lead, synthetic dyes, and industrial adhesives. It has what we call “AZO dyes” as well. Some AZO dyes break down into carcinogenic compounds that contain potential health risks to humans and animals alike.

Although your Cavoodle is playing with a tennis ball now and sees no danger, take note that they may not experience immediate harm, but prolonged exposure could contribute to long-term health issues. Instead, opt for dog-safe toys like MYCAVOODLE Fetch Balls, which are made from pet-safe, non-toxic materials.

2. Dental Damage from the Abrasive Surface

Are you aware that the felt covering on a tennis ball acts like sandpaper on your dog’s teeth? Yes, tennis balls are designed for use on hard courts, not for chewing. And when combined with dirt and debris, this fuzzy exterior creates a grinding effect that can wear down a dog’s enamel over time.

Here are some dental erosion effects:

• Exposed tooth pulp, causing pain and sensitivity

• High risk of infections, leading to abscesses or tooth loss

• Leads to expensive vet bills for dental cleanings and extractions

If your Cavoodle loves to fetch, look for a non-abrasive toy for them that’s gentle on teeth while still being fun to chew and chase.

3. Risk of Choking & Digestive Blockages

Image reference: Are Tennis Balls Safe for Dogs?

Dogs love chewing random items they can find, especially their toys, and Cavoodles are no exception. The problem with tennis balls is that they can be easily destroyed, breaking into small pieces. Once your Cavoodle swallows them, these fragments can cause choking, digestive blockages, or even an emergency trip to the vet for surgery.

Even if your dog doesn’t swallow a whole chunk of the ball, small bits of its material rubber can build up in their digestive system over time, which could potentially lead to serious complications.

4. Suffocation

Image reference: If Your Dog is Choking

One of the major hazards of using tennis balls as your Cavoodle’s toy is the potential for a tennis ball to collapse in their mouth. Some Cavoodles, especially if they’re overjoyed, can compress a tennis ball while chewing it. If the ball suddenly collapses, it can form a suction effect at the back of their throat, cutting off airflow and causing a Cavoodle’s suffocation.

Although this risk is higher in large breeds, Cavoodles with strong chewing habits could still be affected by this. This is why it’s always a good idea to monitor your dog during playtime and avoid using tennis balls altogether.

5. Joint & Muscle Strain  

Cavoodles are so energetic, and they love to run; constantly playing fetch can take a toll on their joints. Natural movements like steady walking, running, and occasional bursts of energy are fine however repeated sprinting, stopping, and turning involved in fetch puts unnatural strain on their body.

Excessive fetch play can contribute to:

• Premature joint wear and tear increases the risk of arthritis

• Muscle strains which leads to soreness and long-term mobility issues

• Higher chances of injuries, such as ligament tears or sprains

Instead of endless games of fetch, consider healthier alternatives such as:

• Steady walks or jogs

• Enjoyable tug-of-war games

• Swimming or playing fetch in water, which is gentler on joints

Here are Safer Alternatives to Tennis Balls

If your Cavoodle really love to chase and chew, here are some better options:

✅ MYCAVOODLE Fetch Balls – Specifically designed for Cavoodles, these balls are durable, pet-safe, and non-abrasive. 

✅ Rubber Fetch Balls – Soft yet strong, these balls are made for dogs to chew and retrieve without harming their teeth. 

✅ Rope Toys – Ideal for tug-of-war and interactive play. 

✅ Plush Cavoodle Bone Toy – With reinforced stitching for durability and no squeaker inside, it’s a quiet yet engaging companion. Plus, it’s machine washable for easy care!

How to Make Fetch Safer

I know playing with your Cavoodle is a really fun activity for both of you. That’s why, if you still want to play fetch with your Cavoodle, consider these tips: 

✔️ Use a larger ball instead– Choose the right size, a size your dog can’t swallow as a whole. 

✔️ Monitor their playtime – It’s advisable to always limit your dog while they play with any toy. 

✔️ Make sure to replace damaged balls – Once your Cavoodle starts chewing through their ball, replace it immediately once damaged.

✔️ Play with them in a softer area – When playing with your Cavoodle, avoid hard surfaces like concrete; better options are grass or sand since these are gentler on joints.

While we want to see our Cavoodles play with their favourite toys without breaking the bank, make sure you choose toys that won’t harm your dog. Now you also know to stop using tennis balls as it leads to risks like dental damage, choking risks, toxic chemicals, and joint strain. By switching to pet-safe alternatives like MYCAVOODLE Fetch Balls, you can ensure your Cavoodle stays happy, healthy, and safe during playtime.

Also, incorporate a variety of activities to keep your Cavoodle mentally and physically stimulated. Going on long walks, swimming, or using interactive toys, provide a well-rounded play routine will enhance your dog’s overall well-being. Always choose the right activity for them based on their health, fitness and age.