Balls of Fun for Dogs

Although a classic, balls are still favoured and enjoyed by dogs of all ages. Balls promote
interactive play, exercise and fun bonding time between owner and dog.

Choosing the Right Ball

When selecting a ball, be sure it is make of sturdy non-toxic material and is the appropriate
size for your dog. Choose a ball that is small enough for your dog to pick up in its mouth,
but big enough that your dog cannot accidentally swallow it. There are even balls made of
heavier and sturdier material specifically designed for strong chewers and aggressive ball
players. If your dog is not a chewer, you can consider getting a softer ball option.

Teaching your Dog to Fetch

For many dogs retrieving a ball comes naturally, but for some they need a little guidance.
To teach your dog to retrieve, reward your dog with a small treat every time he/she brings
the ball back to you. Gradually reduce how often you give the treat and eventually, your
dog will learn that you throwing the ball again is just as much fun as getting a treat. If your
arm gets tired from throwing the ball or you are reluctant to pick up a slobbery ball,
consider using a ball launcher or ball thrower.

Other Ball Games

Other ball games you can play with your dog are hide and seek (hide your dogʼs favourite
ball and get him to find it.) Start with obvious hiding spots at first until your dog catches
onto the game and then gradually make the hiding places more challenging.
Increase your dogʼs “paw-eye” coordination by teaching your dog to not only retrieve balls,
but also to move the ball with his paws and nose. You can also use a ball as a training
reward. After a successful training session, reward your dog with a job well done by giving
him/her a ball to play with.

Ball Types

In addition to the traditional bouncing rubber balls, there are a variety of ball types
designed to keep your dog entertained, mentally stimulated and promote oral hygiene.

Dental Balls

Balls containing ridges, grooves and ropes naturally massage and floss your dogʼs teeth
and gums. There are even mint infused balls that can help freshen your dogʼs breath while
you play fetch.

Stimulate the Senses with Sounds

In addition to the traditional balls that squeak, there are even balls that can wiggle and
giggle, make unusual sounds and even play pre-recorded personalised messages for you
to make for your dog.

Mind Stimulating Treat Balls

In the wild, dogs like to hunt and work for their food. You can stimulate your dogʼs natural
predatory drive by giving your dog a treat ball. Treat dispensing balls reduce separation
anxiety, boredom, and destructive behaviours. Instead of digging, destructive chewing or
excessive barking, your dog will spend hours trying to gnaw away at the yummy prize
inside the ball. The difficulty level can also be increased on these unique treat dispensing
balls to keep your dog entertained. Popular activity treat balls include the Everlasting Treat
Ball, the Activity Treat Ball, the Busy Buddy, the Kong and the BusterCube.

Care & Maintenance of Balls

Be sure to always supervise your dog at play and regularly inspect your dogʼs ball for
damage and missing parts. Throw away any damaged toys to avoid potential injury and
always wash your dogʼs toys regularly to prevent germ build up.