Just like children, dogs have a tendency to sneak around and play with things not meant for them.

Being their parents and guardians, that’s where you come in. It’s your job to make sure your furry children do not get themselves in trouble and are always in a safe environment. For dogs, chewing is a fun way to combat boredom so they use their teeth to explore their surroundings and various items in their vicinity. This is especially common in young pups who chew on things like shoes or toys to help relieve the pain from teething.

Pexels | It’s natural for your dog to rip open your favorite boots but, the issue arises when its teeth catch on something

So, let’s talk about some things that shouldn’t be anywhere near your fur baby.

1. Ice Cubes

As harmless as they might seem, ice cubes are one of the items that could pose a health risk for your little pet. They are dangerous for your dog’s teeth and gums. Some dog breeds are extra sensitive when it comes to ice cubes and can even crack their tooth while trying to bite down on one. So,  on a hot summer day, you might want to give them cold water instead of ice cubes to cool them down.

Pexels | Vets recommend semi-frozen berries instead of ice cubes

2.  Cooked Bones

When cooking a meal, many dog-owners believe it's perfectly fine to throw the bones from the meat to their dogs but in reality, bone chewing is normal for wolves, not for your completely domesticated dog. Bones can break and create splinters that can end up hurting your dog’s gums, teeth, or even cheeks. Worst case scenario, a bone could also get lodged in your dog’s throat, which would then result in an emergency visit to the vet.

3. Tennis Ball

This ball is often mistaken as the perfect gift for a dog but in reality, it is actually very harmful to your pet’s teeth. Excessive chewing on a tennis ball can lead to loss of enamel—the outer layer of the dog’s teeth. Additionally, if the ball breaks into smaller pieces, it can easily become a choking hazard. Even the yellow fuzz is dangerous for your dog as it can cause intestinal issues if swallowed.

Pexels | Tennis balls are only for playing, not chewing

Pets are nothing short of being a part of our family, so it’s high time you learned how to remove health hazards from their immediate surroundings and care for them the right way.