How Frisbee Harms Dogs

Pop culture would have us believe that frisbee is a dog’s favorite game. Countless television programs and movies show dogs gleefully leaping into the air after a floating frisbee. They run the frisbee back to their owners only to repeat the play over and over again. However, these programs do not provide the warnings that should accompanyfrisbees. The traditional game of frisbee can cause serious health problems for your dog.

In a typical game of frisbee, the frisbee flies through the air. The dog jumps into the air and grabs the frisbee in his mouth before landing back on the ground. At first, it seems relatively harmless. However, when the dogs land back on the ground, they put a great deal of strain on their hips. The hips absorb the shock of the ground, and over time, this impact can begin to injure the hip joints. Excessive frisbee games can cause many dogs to have hip dysplasia. This condition is especially common in larger dogs, and dogs who partake in frisbee games at a young age.

Though frisbee is the most common game involving impact to the hips, other forms of play can be harmful as well. Throwing sticks into the air for your dog to leap and grab causes the same condition. Throwing balls high into the air also has the same effect.

Next time you decide to take your dog out to play, find alternative to frisbee and the other leap and grab games. Instead of throwing toys high into the air, try a gentle toss lower to the ground. Most dogs are even content to chase after a ball rolled on the ground. And do not forget about a simple game of tug-of-war. Even a simple brisk walk provides most dogs with a great deal of pleasure. Save your dogs hips and look for alternatives to frisbee.