At first glance, throwing a stick for your dog might seem like a joyful, natural, and harmless pastime. Dogs love the chase, the run, the triumphant return — and you love watching them revel in the moment. But what many dog owners don’t realise is that this seemingly innocent game can end in serious injury, costly surgery, or even death.

Veterinary professionals across the UK have long warned about the dangers of throwing sticks. Behind the scenes, countless pet owners have experienced terrifying moments when a simple game turned into a medical emergency. Here’s why experts — and many devastated owners — say it’s time to ditch the sticks for good.

🎯 The Real Risk Behind Stick-Throwing

1. Penetrating Injuries and Internal Trauma

Perhaps the most serious risk, and sadly one of the most common, occurs when a stick pierces your dog’s mouth, throat, or even deeper.

Dr Sean Wensley, senior vet and former president of the British Veterinary Association, warns:

“We see injuries ranging from splinters in the tongue and gums to sticks impaling a dog’s throat or chest. These injuries can cause serious infections, long-term pain, and sometimes death.”

It might only take one misstep. When a dog chases a stick at high speed and attempts to catch it in mid-air or pounce on it as it lands, it can enter the throat like a spear.

2. Choking Hazards

Sticks splinter easily — and while chewing on wood may seem satisfying to your dog, it can break into sharp shards that lodge in the mouth or throat, creating an instant choking hazard.

3. Tooth and Gum Damage

Repeatedly catching and gnawing sticks can cause dental wear, cracked teeth, and gum injury. This is especially concerning for puppies, older dogs, and breeds prone to dental problems.

💔 True Stories from Dog Owners

Real-life accounts bring home just how quickly a cheerful game can go horribly wrong.

Rachel from Sussex, owner of a Springer Spaniel named Toby:

“Toby was chasing a stick like always. He caught it awkwardly and let out a scream. We rushed him to the vet — it had torn the roof of his mouth and lodged near his tonsils. Surgery was the only option. I had no idea something so simple could be so dangerous.”

Tom and Megan, from Yorkshire, recall what happened to their Labrador, Max:

“We threw a thick stick in the woods and Max ran straight into it. The stick had landed end-up in the mud and went into his throat like a javelin. He needed emergency surgery to remove it and was on antibiotics for weeks. We felt so guilty — we thought we’d killed our dog.”

Anita from Birmingham, who now campaigns for stick awareness:

“My Border Collie, Jess, choked on a splinter from a stick. It pierced her throat and caused an infection we didn’t notice until she stopped eating. She spent five days in the animal hospital. That stick nearly cost her life.”

🩺 What the Experts Say

Vets nationwide are urging owners to change their habits.

Dr Laura Playforth, from Vets Now, a leading emergency vet service, explains:

“Every year we treat dogs with severe injuries caused by sticks — some require life-saving surgery. Owners mean well, but the risk is very real. It’s distressing for dogs and their families, and it’s entirely avoidable.”

The British Veterinary Association has also issued warnings to the public:

“Stick injuries are more common than people think. We recommend dog-safe toys instead — they’re specifically designed not to splinter, pierce, or cause harm.”

🧸 Safer Alternatives to Stick-Throwing

Thankfully, there are plenty of safer ways to play with your dog that carry none of the gruesome risks.

• Rubber fetch toys: Designed to be soft on teeth and safe to catch. Many float and bounce for extra fun.

• Frisbees made for dogs: Lightweight, flexible, and gentle on mouths.

• Enrichment toys: Mental stimulation from food puzzles, scent trails, or hide-and-seek games.

• Tug ropes and supervised chews: Perfect for dogs who enjoy chewing but need safe options.

At Poppy’s Picnic, we understand that safe play and proper nutrition go hand in hand. We encourage dog owners to support their dog’s wellbeing holistically — using natural, raw food for physical health, and safe toys for emotional and behavioural enrichment. A happy dog is a healthy dog — and both should be protected.

✅ What to Do If Your Dog Is Injured by a Stick

If your dog shows signs of discomfort after chasing or chewing a stick — coughing, drooling, pawing at the mouth, not eating, or bleeding — see a vet immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Internal injuries often go unnoticed until they become life-threatening.

In Summary: It’s Not Worth the Risk

Stick-throwing might be tradition, but so were smoking indoors and leaded petrol. Times — and understanding — change. We now know better, and we have better, safer alternatives.

That stick might cost you more than a trip to the park — it could cost your dog their health or life.

So next time you reach for a stick, stop. Pick a dog-safe toy instead. Your dog will still love the chase — and you’ll know they’ll live to chase another day.