Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog whips toys. Can they get hurt? What injuries are possible?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 49 lbs

Not a problem but just wondering... can dogs get injuries from whipping their toys around? And if so... what kind of injuries? My dog "pit bull whips" her toys constantly and it makes me curious.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 8th, 2018

I assume you mean holding onto a toy and whipping it so it smacks the dog's side-- for example a large rope toy. While some possible bruising or soft tissue injury (damage to the skin, connective tissue etc) certainly can occur, these are generally not dangerous. A dog could as injure his/her neck or back with fast forceful play movements, though this is not at all common. Probably the most common reason we would see that does require medical attention from very active forceful play is eye injuries. A dog can get an ulcer or scratch in the cornea (very front part of the eye) if the toy hits them just right. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Because Pit Bulls tails are thin haired and strong it is not uncommon for them to develop wounds on their tails. Typically this is at the tip from hitting a hard surface, like the side of a crate or a wall. If she is doing it to soft toys you are likely ok, more of a concern with a hard surface. Just keep an eye out for any changes with her that way you can adjust the causative factor if needed. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored