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When most people think of playing fetch with their dog, they picture tennis balls. But there’s a whole other world of dog ball toys out there—all with qualities designed to appeal to different kinds of pups. There are borderline indestructible balls for power chewers, plush and squeaky balls for dogs with a high prey drive, treat-dispensing balls for food-motivated pups, and even balls that promote good dental health.
A varied ball collection is great for keeping your dog interested and engaged. To help you pick the right dog ball toy for your pup, we’ve gathered our favorites down below, listing our top 10 first.
Ready to diversify your stash with classic rubber balls, squeakies, spikes, lights, and more? Let’s play ball!
- Best Dog Ball for Launcher: Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy
- Best Dog Ball Sound: Wobble Wag Giggle Ball
- Best Light-Up Dog Ball: Pet Qwerks Blinky Babble Ball
- Best Tennis Ball: Hyper Pet Tennis Ball for Dogs
- Best Dog Soccer Ball: Jolly Pets Soccer Ball Dog Toy
- Best Indestructible Dog Ball: Kong Extreme Dog Chew Ball
- Best Glow-In-The-Dark Dog Ball: Chuckit! Max Glow Dog Ball Toy
- Best Ball for Small Dogs: JW Pet Hol-ee Roller Original Dog Ball
- Best Large Dog Ball: Jolly Pets Tug-N-Toss Dog Ball Toy with Handle
- Best Rubber Dog Ball Toy: Chew King Fetch Balls
- And more!
Best Dog Ball for Launcher: Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy
If your dog is a fetch fan, combine these Chuckit! balls with a launcher to create the ultimate combo. Ubiquitous at the dog park for good reason, these durable, bouncy balls can really let loose and fly!
In addition to the classic Ultra Ball, Chuckit! has added more ball types to fit their namesake launcher, like the Ultra Squeaker—a solid choice for noise-loving dogs.
Constructed of durable rubber, these Chuckit! balls can float in the water and are available in four sizes, with the XX-large coming in at four inches in diameter. Note: You’ll need the larger pro launcher for the XL sizes.
Features:
- Durable rubber
- Floats in water
- Fits into a Chuckit! launcher
- Sized from small to XXL; medium is tennis-ball sized
Worth watching:
- Must choose the right launcher to fit
Best Dog Ball Sound: Wobble Wag Giggle Ball
Take your standard squeaky ball to a whole other level. This top seller on Amazon gets high marks for the fun giggly sounds it makes as your pup rolls it around, keeping them curious and engaged. Six indentions on the side provide an easy grip for your pup, while the soft rubber is gentle on their mouth. It even comes in a glow-in-the-dark version for nighttime and low-light play.
Pet parents like that the toy doesn’t require any batteries but do say this option is quite noisy—something to consider if you or your pup is sound sensitive (or you work from home).
Features:
- Unique giggly sound to keep your pup entertained
- Indentions on the side make for a fun grip
- Doesn’t require batteries for noise
Worth watching:
- Can be quite noisy for sound-sensitive humans and pups
- Soft rubber is not meant for heavy chewers
Best Light-Up Dog Ball: Pet Qwerks Blinky Babble Ball
Interactive dog toys are great for keeping your pup entertained when you can’t actively play with them. This battery-powered Blinky Babble Ball by Pet Qwerks lights up, makes noise, and vibrates simply from the motion of your dog walking near the ball.
Reviewers with vision-impaired and senior dogs are especially enthusiastic about these toys since their pups can interact with them easily.
Available in three sizes and three versions with different sounds, the Babble Ball is noted for being tougher and longer-lasting than rubber or soft plastic interactive balls. Because of its strength, however, it should only roll on the ground. So no throwing, bouncing, or tossing for this dog ball.
Features:
- Motion-activated flashing light
- Talks and blinks when touched
- Great for vision or hearing-impaired dogs
- Batteries are replaceable
Worth watching:
- Cannot be bounced or thrown
- Loud noises can startle both dogs and their people
Best Tennis Ball: Hyper Pet Tennis Ball for Dogs
Sure, plenty of pups won’t know the difference between a tennis ball for dogs and a tennis ball for humans. Pet parents, though, will appreciate Hyper Pet’s innovations for dogs.
First, start with the bright colors, which reviewers say are easy to spot in the grass or bushes. Move on to the non-toxic and non-abrasive felt covering, which is gentler on a dog’s mouth than a traditional tennis ball. Wrap it up with a sturdy bounce. And go long!
While the softer surface may be more appealing to some dogs than some of the harder rubber options on our list, it’s also easier to tear. So you’ll want to designate this ball solely for fetch (and not as a chew toy).
Features:
- Dog-safe felt covering
- Bright colors and bounce
- Comes in two sizes: mini (1.75 inches); regular (2.5 inches)
Worth watching:
- Not as durable as rubber ball toys
- Not to be used as a chew toy
Best Dog Soccer Ball: Jolly Pets Soccer Ball Dog Toy
Got a footballer on your hands? Then we’ve got the dog ball toy for you! Jolly Pets is well-known among dog parents for the quality of their toys, and the soccer ball is one of their classics.
Their firm yet pliable dog soccer ball retains its shape even if punctured by teeth. It’s also buoyant for playing in the water. Each color comes with a different, dog-friendly flavor.
Features:
- Small is six inches in diameter; large is eight inches
- Floats in water; bounces on land
- Also comes in a variety of sport ball shapes
Worth watching:
- Can be too soft for power chewers
Best Indestructible Dog Ball: KONG Extreme Dog Chew Ball
Made for powerful chewers, the KONG Extreme Ball is designed to take a serious pounding. It comes in the signature black rubber of the KONG Extreme line, all of which are puncture-resistant.
While this ball doesn’t have all the bells and whistles (or fun colors) as some of the other toys on our list, it is extremely bouncy and durable. A hole in the middle lets you stuff it with treats or add a rope for easier tossing.
Features:
- Puncture-resistant rubber for heavy chewers
- Hole in the middle for stuffing treats or adding a rope
- Small size for dogs up to 20 pounds, large for dogs up to 65 pounds
Worth watching:
- Heavier than many dog ball toys
- Can be hard to spot in the yard or under furniture
Best Glow-In-The-Dark Dog Ball: Chuckit! Max Glow Dog Ball Toy
If you want to add variety to your fetch routine, a glow-in-the-dark ball might do the trick. The Chuckit! Max Glow Ball gives off a surprisingly strong light, without any battery power.
A proprietary glow pigment creates this effect after the ball sits for five minutes under a bright light—the glow can last up to 30 minutes.
The simple, effective design makes it a fun everyday ball for evening play sessions. Chuckit! designates the Max Glow as “moderately” durable, so it may not work for aggressive chewers.
Features:
- Glow-in-the-dark for fetch in the dark
- Charges up under a bright light (no batteries)
- Durable, washable rubber construction
- Fits medium Chuckit! ball launchers
Worth watching:
- Not as durable as the Chuckit! ultra line
Best Ball for Small Dogs: JW Pet Hol-ee Roller Original Dog Ball
Small dog breeds from Chihuahuas to Yorkies like to play as much as their large dog counterparts, but their mouths don’t always fit around a classic ball toy. Enter the JW Pet Hol-ee Roller. Made from natural, non-toxic rubber, this unique ball toy is so stretchy, you can play tug with it.
The JW Pet balls come in a variety of smaller sizes, including mini. At two inches in diameter, this version is perfect for pint-sized pets. We’re talking 15 pounds and below.
The Hol-ee Roller is also a treat dispenser of sorts. You can add variety to playtime by stuffing large treats or chews inside.
Features:
- Mini and small sizes fit smaller breeds’ mouths
- Stretchy and easy to stuff with treats
- Lightweight for indoor play
Worth watching:
- May not fit small training treats
Best Large Dog Ball: Jolly Pets Tug-N-Toss Dog Ball Toy with Handle
They may be gentle giants, but large breeds need bigger, sturdier ball toys that can hold up to their strong jaws. The Tug-n-Toss Jolly Ball comes in an X-large size for dogs over 90 pounds. (Three smaller sizes also accommodate a range of other breed sizes.)
The Tug-n-Toss is tough yet flexible, made for interactive play. Dogs will love that they can carry the handle in their mouths and shake and toss it on their own, while humans will appreciate they can avoid the slobber.
Do you have a retriever? This Jolly Pets toy also floats in water, so your swimming pup can grab the handle with ease and bring it back to you over and over, and over.
Features:
- Does not deflate when punctured
- Handle for easier gripping and carrying
- Made in the USA from non-toxic materials
- Floats for water play
- Larger size than most fetch toys
Worth watching:
- Aggressive chewers may break the handle
Best Rubber Dog Ball Toy: Chew King Fetch Balls
Made of natural rubber for safety and durability, these Chew King balls are known for staying clean and intact during play. You can even tuck a treat inside to keep your dogs interested. Don’t worry, a safety air vent prevents their tongue from getting stuck.
The medium is about the size of an average tennis ball, while the large size is best for dogs up to 75 pounds, like German Shepherds and Retrievers.
Looking to engage a reluctant fetcher (but enthusiastic foodie)? Try the bacon-flavored set.
Features:
- Durable natural rubber
- Designed to hold treats
- Safety air vent prevents accidents
Worth watching:
- Not ideal for dogs larger than 75 pounds
Best Squeaky Dog Ball: goDog Furballz Squeaker Plush Ball
Squeakers keep dogs interested, especially when they have a high prey drive. If your ears can handle it, they’ll also keep a curious puppy busy indoors.
For the ultimate squeaky ball experience, check out the goDog Furballz. Not only are these balls adorable (those eyes!), but they’re also chew-resistant and very, very squeaky. Their built-in squeakers are extra-large, even in smaller sizes.
Furballz also sports a fuzzy, plush exterior that some dogs love to cuddle. Other dogs may eat the fuzz, so keep an eye on them while playing.
Features:
- Fuzzy, sturdy plush ball with a large squeaker
- Variety of colors including rainbow
- Bigger than most dog ball toys with large size as big as a soccer ball
Worth watching:
- Plush surface is easier to tear
- Can be difficult to clean
Best Ball for Teeth and Dental Health: Bojafa Dog Teeth Cleaning and Treat Ball
Puzzle toy, teething toy, and ball toy in one, this Bojafa two-pack does triple duty. Made of natural rubber, these dog ball toys are lightly scented with mint to freshen your pup’s breath.
Made from non-toxic rubber, they’re easy to stuff with treats (or peanut butter) to increase your dog’s interest. Though nothing truly replaces brushing your pup’s teeth, veterinary dental specialists agree that textured toys like these balls can play a part in your dog’s dental health.
Ideal for teething puppies, these dental balls have more give, allowing pups to grip and chew without damaging their new teeth as they come in.
Features:
- Two-pack in mint flavor for fresh breath
- Grooves for treats or peanut butter
- Non-toxic rubber
- Safe for teething puppies
Worth watching:
- Not for aggressive adult chewers
- Doesn’t replace regular home dental practice
Best for Dog Ball Pits: Snug Rubber Ball Dog Toys
Vibrant, durable, and affordable, these are worth stocking up on if you have a ball-fanatic dog at home and want to do something fun and different with them to rock their world.
Think dog ball pits, for instance, which you can purchase or make at home with a collapsible playpen or kiddie pool.
These ball toys measure the same size as a tennis ball, but they’re easier to clean. They float, too, should you happen to fill your ball pit up with water. (Pro tip: If you have a responsible dog and are comfortable with a less durable option, consider buying BPA-free ball pit balls in bulk for a more economical approach—just make sure to supervise closely.)
Features:
- Come in three-packs for stocking up
- A range of colors make them stand out
- Durable BPA-free construction
- Standard size fits most ball launchers
Worth watching:
- Extra bounce can be destructive indoors
- Aggressive chewers should be supervised
Best Dog Ball On Rope: Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll Dog Toy
Add a rope, handle, or tail to a dog ball, and what do you get? A projectile! Similar to a handheld ball launcher, this type of toy is ideal for pet parents who want the leverage for a farther throw or want to mix things up with a game of tug-of-war.
There are a lot of options in this category (KONG and Orbee-Tuff also make popular rope-ball toys), but we like the Jolly Pets rope ball for its durability. It’s puncture-resistant, gentle on dog mouths, and a solid choice for tug-of-war and pups who like to grab and shake.
Features:
- Sturdy, puncture-resistant ball bounces and floats
- Rope adds leverage to toss the ball farther
- Replacement rope available
Worth watching:
- The rope is a little weaker than the ball itself; not for shredders
Best Dog Puzzle Ball: Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball
When you’re busy, a treat-dispensing toy can be a lifesaver. Simply fill this puzzle toy with dog treats or kibble and set your pup loose. They’ll chase, sniff, nudge, and tap in order to release the insides.
We like the Tricky Treat Ball because it’s both soft and sturdy. It’s easy for dogs to bat across the floor, and soft enough that it’s unlikely to damage your baseboards, but also tough enough to endure some chewing.
Features:
- Pliable surface for teeth
- Easy to fill with treats
- Three sizes for a range of breeds
- Largest size is about twice as big as a tennis ball for bigger breeds
Worth watching:
- Treats fall out more easily than other puzzle toys
- Not for aggressive chewers
Best Spiky Dog Ball Toy: Gnawsome Squeak & Light Ball Dog Toy
Gnawsome balls are covered in pliable spikes that most dogs can’t resist chewing. This version adds a bounce-activated LED light for nighttime play (or just extra fun).
A loud internal squeaker appeals to a dog’s prey drive, too. Gnawsome balls are lighter than tennis balls, so they’re easy to throw. And they’re bouncy but not likely to destroy anything upon impact (unlike tougher toys).
That said, pet parents praise their overall durability. And if your dog manages to take a chunk out of one, the food-grade rubber is unlikely to form a sharp edge.
Features:
- Made of food-grade rubber
- LED light activates on bouncing
- Internal squeaker and spiky texture
- Choose from a variety of colors and designs
Worth watching:
- Not for aggressive chewers
- Can be noisy and bright indoors
Best Self-Moving Dog Ball: Cheerble Wicked Ball
Need a break from playing with your dog? Once charged up, the Cheerble Wicked Ball will roll randomly around the floor to entice your dog to play on their own. Automatic and self-moving, this ball comes with a tough outer shell for indoor or outdoor play.
We like that this ball doesn’t require an app or a remote—you charge it up, but your pet makes it run. Essentially, the ball begins to move when your pet pushes or nudges it.
The Wicked Ball will stop moving after 10 minutes of active play and start up again after 30 minutes of rest, to keep your dog interested while still making sure they take breaks.
Reviewers note it’s better for smaller dogs as it only comes in one size. While it’s not a great choice for deep-pile carpets, it tends to work well on most home surfaces.
Features:
- Automatic, self-moving ball
- Three modes: gentle, normal, active
- USB-rechargeable
- Charge lasts from 1.5 to 4 hours
- The replaceable outer shell is waterproof
Worth watching:
- More expensive than most dog ball toys
- Not for chewing or rough play
- Best used with supervision
Best Nerf Dog Ball: Nerf Dog Rubber Sonic Ball Dog Toy
This set of rubber balls from Nerf does two things well: bounce and fly. A grooved rubber design makes them easy to grip, even for small dogs. Plus, the bright colors help you spot them at the dog park or in the depths of the backyard.
At about the size of a tennis ball, they fit well into most ball launchers, too.
A bonus for households with kids: these Nerf dog balls also fit into the Nerf ball blaster. Load the blaster toy with these rubber dog balls, and they’ll fly up to 50 feet.
Features:
- Tough rubber
- Strong bounce
- Grooved surface for gripping
- Fits into launchers and the Nerf ball blaster toy
Worth watching:
- Not likely to float
- Ball blaster toy requires supervision
Best Dog Football: Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Sports Balls
Orbee-Tuff balls are waterproof and buoyant and come in a variety of ball shapes for all sports fans. The football toy is especially popular because it’s easy for dogs to grab but stands up to tugging. Plus, Orbee-Tuff balls combine the best of both (dog) worlds: fetch and treats.
Stuff the football with treats before tossing it, and your dog will enjoy the extra reward.
Features:
- Made from BPA-free materials
- Flavored with natural mint oil to freshen breath
- Molded shape for easy gripping and carrying
- Bouncy and buoyant
Worth watching:
- Stuff with bigger treats; kibble will fall out
- Too bouncy for throwing indoors
How We Chose
The products featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, and a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms. We prioritized balls in a wide range of textures and sizes to suit different pups and different games, with durability, material quality, and safety being primary concerns. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.
