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Even the most devoted dog owners get tired of bending over to pick up a slobbery ball for another round of fetch. If that’s you, then there’s no need to be a hero because there’s a snazzy accessory called a dog ball thrower. And you want one! Trust. I know that I relied on the extra “oomph” from a ball thrower when I lived with my sweet black Lab, who could chase a ball all day long—and all night, too, if we’d let her.
Read on and we’ll introduce you to the classics, plus a few new and improved throwers that are bound to thrill your pet and make your life a little easier.
The 9 Best Dog Ball Thrower Toys for Active Pups
1. Chuckit! Dog Ball Thrower
Nothing beats a classic like the Chuckit! dog ball launcher. Though there are many different varieties of this launcher available, this 26” model is an ideal size for stashing in the car trunk for trips to the beach. One brightly-colored Chuckit! tennis ball is included—though the launcher is compatible with standard-size tennis balls if you need replacements.
Helpful Review: “The chuckit is great. It allows me to throw the ball much higher and further than I ever could without it. Also, it’s a great tool for scooping the ball off the ground—nice when the ball is all wet or covered with snow. And definitely nice when it’s covered with slobber from my lab.”
Buy Now on Amazon2. Franklin Pet Supply Dog Fetch Toy
Featuring a lightweight design, this plastic ball launcher is easy to bring to the dog park or the beach. Not only does the ergonomic handle make it easy to operate, but its ample length means you won’t have to bend over to scoop up your pup’s slobbery ball. And don’t worry, there’s a durable tennis ball included!
Helpful Review: “I haven’t had a problem in grabbing a ball or launching one. My dog loves playing fetch, my arm doesn’t hurt after a long session and we’re both quite content with this.”
Buy Now on Amazon3. Nerf Dog Tennis Dog Ball Thrower
NERF toys aren’t just for kids! This tennis ball blaster is ideal for energetic pets since it’s able to launch tennis balls over 50 feet in the air.
Plus, if you place the barrel directly over the ball it’ll pick it up for you. This blaster is compatible with regular-sized tennis balls, and you can adjust the launching distance based on your dog’s energy level or the amount of space you have. Pull the lever slightly for shorter distances and all the way back if you want it to really launch.
Helpful Review: “This is our second Nerf Dog Gun in as many years. We have a seven-year-old Border Collie who just cannot get enough playtime, inside or out! He literally wore the first one out as it was his absolute favorite toy, so you can imagine how excited he was when our UPS driver (aka “The Cookie Man”) delivered his new one!”
Buy Now on Amazon4. iFetch Interactive Ball Launchers
This automatic tennis ball launcher is made for small dogs and includes three mini tennis balls. This launcher encourages both physical and mental stimulation, and you can adjust the launch distance from 10 to 30 feet with the touch of a button.
Plus this company is owned and operated by the Hamill family in Austin, Texas (who you can call directly with questions or problems) and comes with a one-year warranty.
Helpful Review: “Bought this for my 12-pound toy fox terrier. He LOVES it! We can play for hours. I was hesitant at first because of the size of the balls, but now that I’ve seen him with them I’m not worried. It is sooooo much fun!”
Buy Now on Amazon5. Hyper Pet Dog Ball Thrower
This super simple to use (you literally just pull back on the handle, load the ball and shoot) ball launcher comes with one mini tennis ball made of non-toxic rubber. Word of warning? Don’t pull the lever back all the way if you’re playing in the house—it’s got some power behind it!
Helpful Review: “Love this. Shoots the mini ball farther than one I have for regular tennis balls and not as bulky. Like the storage for the ball. Saves on my shoulder, no more throwing. Needs a sling to carry though. We use in the house too when it’s rainy outside. My dog loves this!”
Buy Now on Amazon6. Hyper Pet Throw-N-Go
This flexible ball launcher is great for kids because it’s bendy, soft, and easy to operate. You can also conveniently store extra balls in the handle. Though it comes with a ball, standard tennis balls are also compatible.
Helpful Review: “If you find the chuck it type thrower too hard to use, this is the answer. Requires much less hand strength and wrist action. I find I can throw with a low movement that does not stress the shoulder either. Fun to play with my dog again!”
Buy Now on Amazon7. GoDogGo Fetch Automatic Dog Ball Thrower
Think of this automatic dog ball launcher like a sort of pitching machine, but for your dog. Load it with three tennis balls (it comes with three standard tennis balls and two bonus balls, and can use regular tennis balls, too), set your preferred time and launch distance settings, and get ready to watch your pup go crazy chasing these flying toys.
Buy Now on Amazon8. Nerf Dog Toys Tennis Ball Stomper
For a slightly different take on ball launching, try this dog ball stomper that is entirely foot-powered! Made of durable rubber, you simply stomp your foot on the launcher to send the ball sailing (with a squeak included, of course). The vibrant red hue will keep you from losing it in the grass, although we’re pretty sure your dog won’t let that happen.
Helpful Review: “Dog loves to chase balls so it’s well worth it, saves my arm, works great inside, not too strong for indoor use.”
Buy Now on Amazon9. Chew King Fetch Natural Dog Ball Thrower
This innovative, adjustable launcher can fit balls up to 3” in diameter, though the set itself includes six rubber balls that are 2.5” (one glows in the dark). It’s also got a comfortable grip so that everyone (from young to old) can use it. Another plus? This launcher is made in the USA and is safe to wash on the top rack of a dishwasher.
Helpful Review: “These are amazing quality. We used to use tennis balls but we have a German shepherd that destroys them within minutes. So glad we found these. Our pup loves them! They bounce great and are very durable. I would definitely recommend this product.”
Buy Now on AmazonFrom launchers to throwers to automated dispensers, there’s no shortage of ball throwing assistants on the market. We hope this list leads you and your pup to longer and more enjoyable games of fetch.
Further Reading
- The Best 16 Dog Fetch Toys for Hours of Endless Play
- 9 Excellent Dog Frisbees for the Ultimate Game of Fetch
- The Best Dog Rope Toys for Fetch, Tug of War, and Dental Hygiene
