If you own a dog, you're likely aware of their love for chasing sticks, balls, stones, and virtually anything you toss for them.

However, were you aware that veterinarians actually recommend against throwing sticks to your pooch?

It turns out that this common activity can pose significant health risks that you definitely wouldn't want your furry friend to face.

Are sticks safe for dogs?

On TikTok, veterinary nurse @jade.the.vet.nurs posted a video highlighting why it's actually quite dangerous to let your dog play with sticks in this manner.

"Here's a reminder to never throw sticks for your dogs," she stated.

"When you throw a stick, it can become lodged in the ground, and if your dog charges toward it at high speed and attempts to catch it with their mouth, they could end up impaling themselves through the roof of their mouth if the stick is stuck in the ground.

"I have witnessed this before, and it was fatal.

"The stick pierced straight through the roof of the dog’s mouth, reaching into its brain, and the dog died instantly."

It's not a good idea to let your dog play with sticks (Getty Stock Photo)

Jade further explained: "I've heard of this occurring quite frequently, and not just that, but sticks can splinter, causing the splinters to get lodged in your dog's mouth, esophagus, or stomach.

"Overall, sticks are not a safe toy, and it makes me cringe when I see people throwing them for dogs."

Blue Cross adds that sticks can injure your dog in various ways, such as:

• splinters in your dog’s gums
• choking on fragments of the stick
• bowel obstruction
• eye injuries
• wounds on your dog’s body
• bacterial infections
• the stick impaling your dog’s body

Sticks can be dangerous for dogs (Getty Stock Photo)

Why do dogs like sticks?

Blue Cross explains that dogs are attracted to sticks because they are 'multi-sensory'.

They state: "Sticks have new scents, interesting tastes, and various textures like bumps and grooves that make them fun to chew on.

"However, even though sticks might seem like a good way to alleviate their teething discomfort, it's best to avoid giving them to your dog as it can lead to a lifelong habit of chewing sticks."

Blue Cross have explained the health risks involved (Getty Stock Photo)

What can be used instead of a stick?

Blue Cross suggests several alternatives, such as a ball (choose one large enough to prevent choking), a rope toy, or even a rubber toy designed to look like a stick.