Watching your furry friend dash after a bouncing ball with peak excitement is one of the simple joys of pet parenthood. So, it’s only natural that you’d want to choose the best dog balls for fetch that are available on the market, and we’re here to help you.
Whether your dog prefers a classic tennis ball, a bouncy rubber ball, or a treat-dispensing puzzle ball, finding the perfect one can make all the difference in your pup’s playtime enjoyment.
From durable rubber balls that survive even the most ardent chewers to interactive options that keep your dog engaged and entertained, you’ll find options for every dog breed In this article, we’ll explore not only the different types of dog balls but also their unique features and how to choose the right one for your furry friend’s size, breed, and play style.
Is Playing Fetch Good Exercise for Dogs?
Fetch is an excellent form of exercise for many dogs. It is a great combination of physical activity and mental stimulation that turns a game into a fun and engaging way to burn energy. Chasing, retrieving, and returning the ball on repeat helps build muscle strength, especially in the legs and core. Remember to always supervise your dog during playtime and choose appropriate toys to prevent injuries.
Rewarding Activity
It taps into the natural prey drive of breeds that have a history of retrieving, such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers. It makes fetch a stimulating and rewarding activity.
Things to Consider
You must consider your dog’s breed, age, and physical condition. High-energy breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds will likely benefit more from fetch than calmer breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs. But as with any physically straining activity, overexertion can be harmful, so it’s crucial to listen to your dog’s body and provide adequate rest.
Not a Complete Exercise Routine
While it’s a great way to burn energy, it doesn’t replace the need for other forms of exercise, such as walking or hiking. Incorporate a variety of activities to keep your dog physically and mentally stimulated.
MORE FROM DOGTIME
The Best Dog Balls for Fetch to Buy in 2024
With a dizzying array of options available — the most common one being tennis balls for dogs — finding the perfect ball for your pup can be challenging. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top picks to help you narrow down your options.
BEST OVERALL
Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy
BEST WITH SQUEAKER
Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz Fetch Dog Toy
BEST VET APPROVED
Chew King Fetch Balls
BEST INTERACTIVE
PLAYOLOGY Squeaky Chew Ball
BEST GLOWING
Chuckit! Max Glow Ball
BEST INDESTRUCTIBLE
PJDH Squeaky Dog Toy Balls
BEST NON-TOXIC
NERF DOG Rubber Ball Toy
BEST OVERALL
Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Made from tough rubber
High bounce
Ideal for water play
Textured surface
Available in various sizes
Bright color
But…
The textured surface may trap dirt
Take the game of fetch to the next level with the Chuckit! Ultra Ball. This isn’t your average tennis ball — it’s built to bounce higher, float better, and last longer. Made from tough rubber with a textured surface, it’s gentle on your pet’s teeth but tough enough for even the most enthusiastic players.
Whether you’re playing in the park or the pool, the ball’s bright color makes it easy to spot. Choose the right size for your dog and watch them go wild! With its high bounce and durable design, the Chuckit! ball is sure to become your pup’s new favorite toy.
BEST BALL WITH A SQUEAKER
Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz Fetch Dog Toy
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Doubles as a squeaky toy
Durable construction
Come in bright colors
Available in various sizes
Multi-pack options
High absorbency
But…
Not meant for aggressive chewers
The Outward Hound fetch ball is twice the fun — it combines your dog’s two favorite things: squeaky toys and tennis balls! These brightly colored balls are made with premium rubber and traditional tennis felt for a bouncy fetch experience indoors or out.
Available in multiple sizes and packs of 2, 4, 6, and 8, they’re perfect for every dog, from tiny breeds to big dogs. Toss them, launch them, or simply let your dog squeak away to their heart’s content. Plus, the durable rubber ensures the fun won’t stop anytime soon.
BEST VET-RECOMMENDED DOG BALL
Chew King Fetch Balls
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Made from natural rubber
Non-toxic
It can be filled with treats
Safety air vent prevents suction
High bounce
Top-rack dishwasher safe
But…
Heavy chewers may damage the ball
Once you start playing with Chew King fetch balls, you’ll forget all about soggy tennis balls. Made from natural rubber, these durable natural rubber balls are 100% non-toxic and are the perfect alternative, offering a safe and fun playtime experience. No more unpleasant smells, just pure bouncing fun!
They are designed to withstand even the toughest chewers and feature an air vent to prevent any tongue-sticking mishap. You can even stuff them with treats to make a game of fetch even more rewarding. Available in two sizes, you can choose the one that suits your pup best. What’s more? They are top-rack dishwasher safe, making cleaning them a breeze.
BEST INTERACTIVE DOG BALL
PLAYOLOGY Squeaky Chew Ball
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Engaging scents
It has a built-in squeaker
Made from tough rubber
Ideal for water-loving dogs
Easy to clean
Made with 100% natural ingredients
But…
Pet parents might not like the squeaky sound
The Playlogy chew ball is more than just a ball – it’s a sensory adventure. This fetch toy features a squeaker that adds auditory excitement during playtime and an all-natural beef scent that keeps your furry friend engaged for hours. Not a fan of the beef scent? It also comes in four other scents to suit your pooch’s preference.
But wait, there’s more! It floats, making it ideal for pups that love playing in water. Plus, it is very easy to clean after those messy outdoor adventures. Made with durable rubber, it’s tough enough for fetch and gentle on teeth. Plus, the Encapsiscent Technology means the enticing scent is infused throughout the ball, which won’t wash away.
MORE FROM DOGTIME
BEST GLOWING DOG BALL
Chuckit! Max Glow Ball
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Glow-in-the-dark feature
Made from tough rubber
Easy to charge
Grip-able texture
Easy to clean
It can be used with Chuckit! launchers
But…
The glow only lasts for 20-30 minutes per charge
Who says playtime has to end when the sun goes down? With the Chuckit! glow ball, the fun continues into the night. This durable rubber ball, made from safe photoluminescent material, charges in just 5 minutes under any bright light and gives up to 30 minutes of glowing playtime. It also has a really good bounce that will make your furry friend jump with joy, literally!
We love that you don’t need any batteries or cords to make it glow. Its textured surface makes it easy for your pet to grab, and the bouncy design keeps the game engaging. Your dog will love retrieving it during those evening walks or late-night backyard romps, as its bright glow keeps it visible even in the dark.
BEST INDESTRUCTIBLE DOG BALL
PJDH Squeaky Dog Toy Balls
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Has a built-in squeaker
Made with thick, 0.3” rubber
Promotes dental health
Floats in water
Available in multiple colors
No-choking design
But…
Not suitable for very small breeds
Get ready for some serious squeaky fun with PJDH squeaky toy balls! These rubber balls are extremely durable and are designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers. And the built-in squeaker will definitely be a big hit with your pooch.
The ball’s unique concave-convex surface not only gives your furry friend a satisfying chew but also helps clean their teeth and promote dental health. Whether your pooch prefers fetch in the park, a splash in the pool, or indoor playtime, these versatile 3”-balls are up for the challenge. Choose from various vibrant colors to find the perfect match for your dog.
BEST NON-TOXIC DOG BALL
NERF DOG Rubber Ball Toy
PHOTO CREDIT: PLACEHOLDER
Why We Love
Durable construction
It has a built-in squeaker
Textured surface is easy to grip
Lightweight
Water-resistant
Non-toxic material
But…
Not suitable for small breeds or puppies
Unleash the fun with the Nerf Dog rubber ball. Built with the legendary durability of Nerf, this squeaky ball will last you years. It is made from safe, 100% non-toxic, BPA-free, and FDA-approved materials. Featuring a textured hexagon surface, this ball is perfect for tossing, catching, and all-around fun.
Made with lightweight yet tough rubber, it can handle several intense games of fetch. The squeaker inside adds a burst of excitement to every toss and fetch. Whether your dog is a seasoned retriever or a playful fur baby, the 4-inch diameter makes them the best fetch balls for large dogs. If you have a smaller fur baby, consider getting them fetch toys for small dogs.
MORE FROM DOGTIME
How We Chose the Best Dog Balls to Play Fetch
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best dog balls to play fetch by assessing factors such as size, material, texture, weight, bounce, water resistance, interactive features, and ease of cleaning. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
What kind of ball can a dog play with?
Dogs can play with various types of balls, including rubber, nylon, and rope balls. Make sure you choose a size and material that is appropriate for your dog’s breed, size, and chewing habits.
What is the best ball for night fetch?
The best ball for night fetch is the Chuckit! Max Glow Ball. It glows in the dark, charges quickly under any bright light, and offers 20-30 minutes of illuminated playtime, ensuring fun and visibility during nighttime fetch sessions.
Can dogs play with plastic balls?
While some dogs enjoy playing with plastic balls, it’s not recommended. Plastic can easily break into sharp pieces, posing a choking or internal injury risk. Opt for safer materials like rubber or nylon.
Is playing fetch better than a walk?
That’s a tough one! Both activities offer different benefits for your pup. Walks are awesome for sniffing out new smells and exploring the neighborhood, but fetch really gets their heart pumping and their mind engaged.
What Colour ball is best for dogs?
Dogs see blue and yellow best, so balls in those colors are easiest for them to spot during fetch.
When should I start playing fetch?
You can introduce fetch to puppies as young as 8-12 weeks, but keep sessions short and fun. As your pup grows, gradually increase the distance and intensity of the game, paying attention to their energy levels and physical development.
Do dogs get tired of playing fetch?
Yes, dogs can get tired of playing fetch if it becomes too repetitive or if they’re overexerted. Varying the duration and frequency of play sessions, using different toys, and incorporating breaks can help maintain their interest and prevent fatigue.
How long should I play ball with my dog?
There’s no magic number, but 15-20 minutes of fetch is a good starting point for most dogs. Pay attention to your pup’s energy level and take breaks if they seem tired.
Why is my dog obsessed with playing ball?
Many dogs, especially those bred for retrieving, have a natural instinct to chase and bring back objects. Playing fetch taps into this instinct, releasing endorphins that make your dog feel happy and satisfied, hence the obsession!
What size ball is safe for dogs?
Choose a ball size that your dog can carry comfortably but cannot fully fit into their mouth to prevent choking. For medium and large breeds, balls around 2.5 to 4 inches in diameter are typically safe and suitable for interactive play and fetching.
Are rubber balls safe for dogs?
Yes, rubber balls designed specifically for dogs are generally safe. Ensure they are made from non-toxic materials and are durable enough to withstand chewing. Avoid giving dogs rubber balls meant for human use, as they may contain harmful chemicals or be too soft for vigorous play.
What kind of ball is best for ball therapy dogs?
For ball therapy, a firm rubber ball like a Kong or Chuckit! Ultra Ball is ideal. The ball should be sized so it sits just behind the canine teeth, gently encouraging them into proper alignment. Avoid fuzzy tennis balls, as they can wear down teeth.
