One of my dogs loves to play fetch. She loves running and chasing balls and needs exercise on a daily basis so I was excited when I got to review the iFetch dog fetch machine robot.
I love the color and size. Modern design is pretty to look at and it’s not too big so it can store easily when you aren’t playing with it.
I took it out to the backyard (though you can use this machine indoors as well). It’s got some great features: you can use batteries if you want to take it to a park or a friend’s house. It’s got a wide mouth so your dog can easily drop the ball back into the machine so they can play iFetch with themselves. It’s also quieter than other fetch machines I’ve tested out. It has a more gentle throw for smaller dogs which is also why it works so well inside.
The machine has 3 settings for distance to adjust to the room you are playing iFetch in. I played with all 3 settings. The lowest settings seems to work just fine for my small dog indoors and outdoors. The small ball size is perfect for my smaller dog and she can pick up the ball in her mouth up and carry it easily unlike a full size tennis ball which barely fits in her mouth.
I played with the machine on a weekly basis over the course of several months just to give it a proper test drive. When it’s not being used I store it in a cupboard, so when it comes out she gets excited and knows that it’s play time.
I haven’t had success getting my dog to drop the ball back into the iFetch but I’m not the best dog trainer. I’m sure that with a little time an effort any dog would be able to learn how to play fetch with themselves. Here’s a handy training video to show you how to get your dog to drop the ball back into the iFetch machine for endless fun.
If you like gadgets, this is probably for you. If you are good at training your dog tricks, you will love this. If you have a dog who loves to play fetch and you have an injury or can’t play fetch as long as your dog would like you to, you will love this. If you want a machine that you can use indoors as well as outside, you’ll love this.
Here is a short video I made of my dog playing iFetch in my back yard so you could hear how loud it is and see the distance. As you can see, Sarah is not bringing the ball back to me but we will keep working on that. That’s human/user error and not the fault of the iFetch obviously.
If fetch is new to you or your dog read these training tips from a professional trainer. There is some great information. I have been playing fetch with my dog for over a year, but found the information very useful.
If you are interested in ordering the iFetch Ball Launcher in small.
If you are interested in ordering the iFetch Ball Launcher in large.
The iFetch will tucker out your pups no matter what. Look at these guys. Pooped out pups!
