If Your Dog Is Playing With This, Take it Away Immediately

It may seem unlikely that your dog could split a tennis ball in half and end up choking on it, but experts warn that this is possible—especially for larger dogs with powerful jaws. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says that tennis balls can be serious choking hazards. "One-half of the tennis ball can get lodged in the back of their throats, blocking the airway," the AKC notes.

But the ball itself isn't the only choking hazard. Some dogs also end up shredding the fuzz on tennis balls, and that can cause choking as well—not to mention intestinal blockages, which could require surgery. And if you're looking for a pet to add to your home,