Updated on January 6, 2024 by  Hannah Fitchett

What do dogs love more than toys and treats?

Spending quality time with their favorite human – that’s you!

But between busy work schedules, family, and other commitments, it can be difficult finding enough hours in the day to play with your dog. Plus, let’s face it…providing adequate physical exercise and mental stimulation for a pup can be exhausting. Luckily, I have compiled a list of the top 3 best dog ball launchers. These inventions make playtime fun and strain-free for both you and your four-legged friend.

What are the best dog ball launchers?

When it comes to choosing the best dog ball launchers, there are a few factors to consider.

For example, dog owners should look for a ball launcher that taps into their pet’s canine behavior and natural instincts. Psychologically, dogs find retrieving items pleasurable. Like their wolf ancestors, they enjoy carrying successfully hunted “prey” (in this case, a tennis ball) back to their families. A great dog ball launcher will be safe to use, reasonably priced, and stimulate your dog’s brain and body at the same time.

So, without further ado…

Let’s review the top 3 best dog ball launchers for paw-some playtime.

1.  iFetch Too Automatic Ball Launcher Dog Toy

    iFetch Features

  • Size: Good for medium to large dog breeds
  • Dimensions: 14 x 13 x 12 inches
  • Eco-friendly: Includes AC charger for the internal rechargeable battery
  • Non-abrasive ball design: Gentle on teeth 
  • Interchangeable launch distances: 10, 25 or 40 feet (or random setting)
  • Noise Level: Quiet

First up is this bestselling automatic ball launcher aptly named the iFetch. Those with bigger pups will be delighted to learn that it is designed specifically for medium to large sized dogs.

We love this compact, lightweight, and easy to carry device because it comes with three standard-sized tennis balls ready to go. Dogs will wag their tails with excitement as balls shoot an astounding 10, 25 or 40 feet (with distances easily switched at the push of a button). Even better? Your neighbors won’t hear a thing. No buzzing. No loud bells or whistles. The entire process is mostly silent.

A sleek and streamlined plastic design with rubber feet also ensures the iFetch Too Automatic Ball Launcher Dog Toy stays put squarely on the ground around the most hyper of dogs.

On top of this, electricity-savvy pet parents will appreciate that it comes with a rechargeable battery. Simply plug in for 2 – 8 hours and wait until the light turns green for eco-friendly energy that lasts for approximately 250 ball launches.

Like
  • 100% hands-free
  • Prevents arm fatigue
  • Great for both indoor / outdoor
  • Excellent training tool for teaching dogs to retrieve
  • Random distance setting keeps dogs interested
  • Runs for long periods
Dislike
  • Tennis balls are not waterproof (get wet with dew/saliva)
  • Machine needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt buildup
  • No sensor or delay when dog puts ball in
  • Expensive

2.  PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher Dog Toy

    PetSafe Features

  • Size: Well-suited for dogs who weigh over 10 pounds
  • Dimensions: 12 x 13.5 x 13.5 inches
  • Safety Consideration: Automatic 15-minute sleep mode
  • Accessible Anywhere: Your choice of plug-in power or battery powered
  • Ball Design: Compatible with any ball the same size as standard tennis balls

Next on my roundup of best dog ball launchers is the PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher Dog Toy. This product wins hands down (or should we say, paws down?) when it comes to balancing safety with fun thanks to the automatic sleep mode that kicks in after 15 minutes of play.

If your dog runs to the point of exhaustion, this is a good choice. High-energy breeds such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Jack Russel Terriers, and so on will likewise benefit from the additional protective built-in features, including multiple electronic motion sensors up to 7 feet away. An alert sound warns pups when it’s ready. That mean NO getting accidently hit in the face with shooting balls!

Speaking of launch power, did you know? This one has fantastic range of 8-30 feet.

Another cool thing is the two charging options (power cord or 6 D-Cell batteries). Convenient for on-the-go road trips and travelling with your dog.

Like
  • 100% hands-free
  • Prevents arm fatigue
  • Great for both indoor / outdoor
  • Motion sensor and safety alert included
  • Adjustable throwing distance
  • Runs on battery or electricity
Dislike
  • Launching noise is loud (can frighten some dogs)
  • Not waterproof
  • Not too sturdy and could be knocked over

3.  Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster Dog Toy

    Nerf Features

  • Size: Good for small, medium, and large breed dogs
  • Dimensions: 4 x 9.25 x 17.72 inches
  • Price: Excellent value for money
  • One-on-One Play: Manual reloading means more interaction with your dog
  • Design: Ergonomic and hand-held  
  • Family-friendly: Children can also use it

Finally, if you are looking to spend more time together, don’t miss this last dog ball launcher. The Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster Dog Toy is a great way to strengthen your human-dog bond thanks to the manual nature of the device. A solid choice for non-independent play. Just pull your trigger finger to launch tennis balls up to 50 feet in the air – whoa!

Weighing only 2 lbs, it’s easy to change the distance of your shots and adapt to any environment by positioning the handle the direction your dog wants to chase. Does your dog love to jump? Do you visit the grassy park? Or the sandy beach? This high-powered blaster can be used in a wide variety of environments. For pet parents who live in rainy or snowy climates, this is an excellent pick because the material is plastic, water resistant, with zero electricity required.

Another pro? It’s budget-friendly and compatible with regular-sized tennis balls, so you don’t need to purchase repeat orders.

Like
  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Affordable
  • For all sizes
  • No exposed moving parts or wires
  • Hands-free ball pick-up (no slobber on your fingers)
Dislike
  • Not automatic
  • Cannot be used for independent playtime
  • Only holds one dog ball at a time
  • Some complaints about jamming and durability

What is a dog ball launcher?

Dog ball launchers come in all shapes and sizes. However, their purpose remains the same: to entertain ball-crazy dogs who love a good game of fetch! A dog ball launcher can be automatic or manual. Essentially, this mechanism shoots a ball anywhere between 10 – 50 feet in the air or close to the ground. Rather than swing your arm back and tire muscles with each throw, ball launchers do all the heavy lifting for us.

Conclusion

There you have it, pet parents.

We hope you have enjoyed learning about the three best dog ball launchers available for pooches who like to fetch. Whether you choose a manual or automatic ball launcher, remember the most important thing is that your dog is mentally happy, physically healthy, and having fun!

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