The Benefits of Using Lacrosse Balls for Dogs as Toys and Chews

The Benefits of Using Lacrosse Balls for Dogs

Lacrosse balls can make great toys for energetic dogs. Their rubber construction makes them durable for dogs that like to chew, carry, and chase balls. The holes on lacrosse balls also make them easy for dogs to grip with their teeth.

Compared to tennis balls, lacrosse balls stand up better to determined chewers and hold their shape longer when exposed to dog saliva. The textured surface also helps clean dogs' teeth as they play.

Safety Considerations for Lacrosse Balls

Any ball can present a potential choking hazard, so it's important to select an appropriate size for your dog. Most full-sized lacrosse balls are a good fit for medium, large, and giant breed dogs. Smaller "buddy ball" lacrosse balls are available for smaller dogs.

Always supervise your dog when they are playing with balls. Monitor them for signs of fatigue and don't allow them to chew lacrosse balls unsupervised, as extremely aggressive chewers may be able to break pieces off.

Choosing the Right Lacrosse Ball

Hardness is an important consideration when selecting a lacrosse ball for your dog. Softer balls with more give will be gentler on your dog's mouth, gums, and teeth during enthusiastic games of fetch and chewing sessions.

Textured surface balls provide an added dental benefit as they gently scrub your dog's teeth. Dimpled balls are easy for dogs to grip and pick up in their mouths.

The best lacrosse balls for dogs mimic the weight and rebound of regulation balls. Heavyweight or extremely light balls will not bounce and roll properly, impacting your dog's enjoyment when playing fetch.

Playing Fetch with a Lacrosse Ball

The perfect weight and grip of lacrosse balls makes them ideal for playing fetch with dogs. The rebound of a lacrosse ball off hard surfaces closely matches that of a tennis ball, allowing for dynamic games of catch.

A lacrosse ball's durable rubber construction stands up well to being bitten, chased, and carried around. The ball will maintain its weight and bounce far longer than a chewed up tennis ball.

Always use caution when playing fetch on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt, as some especially enthusiastic dogs may chip or wear down their teeth over time on the extremely hard rubber.

Using Lacrosse Balls as Chew Toys

The durable rubber material of lacrosse balls makes them very attractive chew toys for dogs. Their hardened construction stands up well to determined chewers much better than many other rubber toys.

The holes on lacrosse balls are ideal for allowing dogs to easily grip and carry the toys around in their mouths. Just be cautious with extremely aggressive chewers, as small pieces could potentially break off.

Safety Tips for Chewing

Always select a properly sized lacrosse ball for your dog based on their breed and size. Balls that are too small could present a choking hazard, while balls too large may cause mouth pain or dental issues.

Monitor your dog's chewing sessions, and do not allow them to chew lacrosse balls unsupervised. This helps prevent overexertion and also allows you to replace the toy if it starts to break down.

Pay attention to any changes in your dog's chewing habits or behavior that may indicate mouth pain. Dogs may whine, pick up and drop the ball repeatedly, or chew with less intensity if their mouth is sore.

The Dental Benefits

The durable rubber material of lacrosse balls gently cleans dogs' teeth and massages gums as they chew. The textured surface and holes help scrape away soft plaque and tartar buildup.

Chewing also stimulates saliva production, which helps reduce bacteria and prevent gum inflammation and more severe dental disease. Always monitor chewing sessions though, as extremely aggressive chewers may damage their teeth.

For added dental benefits, consider lacrosse balls with textured surfaces or small nubs that increase teeth cleaning during chewing. Just be cautious with elderly dogs, as they may have tender mouth tissue.

Increasing Your Dog's Quality of Life

High energy and working dogs thrive when kept actively engaged and properly exercised. Incorporating vigorous games of fetch or chew sessions with durable lacrosse balls helps prevent problem behaviors stemming from boredom.

The bonding time owners spend playing with and supervising their dogs also increases canine happiness and fortifies the human-animal connection.

Final Thoughts

From chasing running catches to determined chewing displays, lacrosse balls hold up better for energetic dogs with a drive to play. Their durable rubber construction, grippy exterior, and ideal weight makes lacrosse balls the perfect fetch and chew toy option.

Always monitor your dog any time they are playing with balls or chew toys. Selecting the right size lacrosse ball for your dog and replacing toys once showing significant wear minimizes safety risks and ensures your pup's enjoyment.

FAQs

Are lacrosse balls safe for my dog to chew?

Lacrosse balls are generally safe for dogs to chew, but supervision is recommended. Make sure to select an appropriately sized ball so your dog does not choke. Also monitor aggressive chewers, as they may be able to break small pieces off that could pose a choking risk.

What size lacrosse ball should I get for my dog?

Choose a size appropriate for your dog's breed and size. Standard lacrosse balls work well for medium to giant breeds. Small "buddy balls" are available for small dog breeds. Make sure your dog can grip and pick up the ball easily in their mouth.

Why are lacrosse balls better than tennis balls?

Lacrosse balls stand up much better to aggressive chewers than felt tennis balls. They maintain their shape and bounce, even when exposed to moisture from a dog's mouth. Lacrosse balls also clean a dog's teeth better thanks to their durable, textured rubber surface.

Can chewing lacrosse balls improve my dog's dental health?

Yes! Chewing cleans soft plaque and tartar off a dog's teeth and stimulates saliva flow. Lacrosse balls often feature grippy holes and textured surfaces that provide extra abrasive scrubbing power as a dog chews. Monitor chewing to prevent dental damage though.