Why I don’t throw sticks for my dog.

Sticks and dogs seem to go together.

They’re everywhere on walks, easy to pick up, and dogs often love them. They move unpredictably through the air, smell like the outdoors, and satisfy a dog’s natural urge to chase and chew.

For many people, throwing a stick feels like a timeless part of walking a dog.

And most of the time, nothing happens.

But “common” doesn’t necessarily mean “risk-free”.

Why dogs love sticks

From a dog’s perspective, sticks are extremely appealing.

They resemble prey in the way they move and tumble. They carry the scent of trees, soil and the surrounding environment. They’re also satisfying to grip and chew, particularly for dogs who enjoy carrying objects in their mouths.

In short, the attraction is completely natural.

A timeless tradition

For generations, people have thrown sticks for their dogs.

It’s simple, spontaneous and requires no equipment. A walk becomes a game almost instantly. Many dogs learn to anticipate it, waiting expectantly as soon as their owner reaches down to pick up a branch.

Because the behaviour is so familiar, it’s easy to assume it’s harmless.

But veterinary professionals often see a different side of the story.

Impact injuries

One of the most serious risks comes from how sticks land.

When thrown, a stick can easily land upright in the ground. A dog running towards it at speed may not realise this until the last moment. In rare cases, the dog can run directly onto the stick, causing severe puncture wounds to the mouth, throat or chest.

These injuries are uncommon, but when they occur they can be extremely serious.

What vets report

Veterinary organisations regularly report treating injuries caused by sticks.

Surveys suggest that three in four vets have treated a stick-related injury within the previous year. Insurance data also estimates that around 1.4 million dogs in the UK have experienced stick-related injuries ranging from splinters to more serious trauma.

Many of these injuries occur during play.

Splinters and infections

Even when sticks don’t cause impact injuries, they can still present risks.

Wood can splinter when chewed or broken. Small fragments may lodge in the gums, throat or digestive tract, or cause damage to soft tissue in the mouth. In some cases, fragments can lead to infection or internal injury.

Rotting wood can also carry bacteria that may enter through small wounds in the mouth.

Signs to watch for

If a dog has been chewing or retrieving sticks, it’s worth watching for signs that something may be wrong.

These can include:

• Excess drooling

• Pawing at the mouth

• Swelling around the mouth or jaw

• Refusal to eat

• Lethargy

If these symptoms appear, it’s best to contact a vet as soon as possible.

Safer alternatives

The good news is that you don’t have to remove the game entirely.

If your dog loves retrieving or carrying objects, safer alternatives are widely available. Many toys are designed specifically for fetch while reducing the risk of splintering or puncture injuries.

Some options include:

• Rubber fetch sticks

• Tennis or rubber balls

• Frisbees

• Rope toys

For most dogs, the joy of the game isn’t the stick itself. It’s the chase, the movement and the interaction with their owner.

By swapping the material rather than removing the activity, dogs can still enjoy the same game with far less risk.

You don’t have to remove the fun. Just change the material.

Sources: British Veterinary Association, Direct Line Pet Insurance