The Best Ball Launchers For Dogs

Keeping your active dog entertained can seem like a full-time job at times. From running to jumping, these types of dogs rarely slow down. If you need a break from throwing balls and frisbees, a ball launcher may be just what you need. These gadgets do all the work for you, saving your arm and helping you take your pup's fetch game to the next level. They also ensure your furry friend is getting the exercise they need. With these things in mind, we've rounded up some of the best ball launchers for dogs on the market.

What to Look For

We recommend keeping the following things in mind when shopping for a ball launcher for your dog: Is it easy to take with you on the go? Does it require access to a power source? How far can it launch the ball? Our favorite was the ball launcher from Chuckit!, which has a classic design and makes it easy to throw balls longer distances. We also really liked the ball launcher from Nerf Dog, which sends balls flying up to 35 feet in the air. Read on to learn more about our favorites and discover the best one for your pup.

Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher for Dogs

Keep it simple

This manual ball launcher will keep your pup entertained for hours.
Best Overall

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You’ll need a bit of elbow grease to use this classic ball launcher from Chuckit!, but we think you’ll agree it’s well worth it. It’s available in various lengths, allowing you to choose the right one based on your pup’s needs. And since it’s small, you can easily take it with you on trips to the beach or dog park for hours of fun with your furry friend. One standard tennis ball is included with the set. And you can pick up stray balls using the launcher thanks to its hands-free design, eliminating the need to touch slobbery balls.

Pros:

  • Available in a variety of colors and sizes
  • Comes with a bright, highly-visible ball
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Throws balls further than many automatic launchers

Cons:

  • Not automatic

Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster

Puppy playtime

Your pup is guaranteed to have a good time when they play fetch with this launcher.
Runner Up

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Get ready to have fun with your pup when you send balls flying using this handheld ball launcher from Nerf Dog. Since it uses standard tennis balls, you won’t have to purchase pricey replacement balls when the time comes. You can pick up slobbery balls using the launcher’s barrel, avoiding messes and keeping your hands clean. And although it’s not automatic, it can launch balls an impressive 50 feet, which is sure to make most pups and their owners very happy.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Hands-free option for picking up balls
  • User-friendly design
  • Works with medium and large tennis balls
  • Available in three sizes

Cons:

  • Only holds one ball at a time

Hyper Pet GoDogGo Fetch Machine for Dogs

Nonstop fun

Encourage your dog to get the exercise they need with this ball launcher.
Best Automatic

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If you prefer a hands-off approach when playing fetch with your dog, this ball launcher from Hyper Pet might be exactly what you need. This easy-to-use fetch machine helps keep your pup safe by launching balls in an arching pattern instead of directly at your pup. Plus, it can hold up to 23 balls, depending on their size. You can train your dog to return the balls they’ve fetched to the machine, so there is always a steady supply ready for playtime. You also won’t have to worry about getting your hands wet with saliva.

Pros:

  • Remote works up to 50 feet away
  • Large capacity
  • Shoots balls between 10 and 60 feet
  • Three time settings
  • Uses rechargeable batteries and an AC adapter

Cons:

  • Makes a lot of noise

PetPrime Automatic Ball Launcher for Dogs

Entertaining exercise

This dog launcher with adjustable distance is sure to become one of your dog's favorite toys.
Best Indoor And Outdoor

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Whether you want to play with your pup in the great outdoors or in the comfort of your home, you can do it with this ball launcher from PetPrime. The automatic dog launcher is an excellent choice for pet parents with small to medium-sized dogs. You can set it to launch balls at 10, 20, and 30-foot distances, allowing you to adapt it based on the environment. It’s great for relaxed afternoons playing fetch or for training your dog. Plus, it weighs only five pounds, making it easy to throw into the trunk of the car and take with you on the go.

Pros:

  • Comes with three mini-tennis balls and an AC adapter
  • Easy to setup and operate
  • Adjustable distances
  • Works with dogs of different ages

Cons:

  • It doesn’t use standard tennis balls

Hyper Pet Ball Launcher for Dogs

Endless excitement

Your dog will love chasing after the mini tennis balls thrown by this ball launcher.
Best For Small Dogs

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This handheld ball launcher uses mini tennis balls to promote interactive play with puppies and small dogs. This powerful machine can launch balls over 50 feet and has space to store two extra balls on the gun. Your dog won’t be able to predict how far you plan to launch the balls thanks to the gadget’s lever system, which allows you to adjust the distance the ball is thrown each time. When your dog returns the ball, you can pick it up using the launcher’s muzzle, keeping your hands dry and clean.

Pros:

  • The quick trigger makes it easy to launch balls
  • Can shoot balls at different distances
  • Encourages pups to get their exercise

Cons:

  • The rubber bands used in the gun aren’t long-lasting

Can automatic ball launchers harm dogs?

When used correctly, you won’t have to worry about an automatic ball launcher harming your dog. However, if you have an energetic dog who is easily excited, they may overexert themselves by running too fast when playing fetch with one of these toys. It’s best to limit your dog’s playtime and keep an eye out for any signs that they may be experiencing pain. It’s also a good idea to have a slow-paced warm-up session with your pup before getting started.

Do all dog breeds play fetch?

Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, German shepherds, and standard poodles are just a few dog breeds that enjoy playing fetch. These dogs are bred to pick up items, and chasing is instinctual for them. However, some dog breeds won’t play fetch at all, or they’ll run after a ball but won’t bring it back to you.

About the Author

Lynnae grew up with dogs all her life, so she has firsthand experience on how to best take care of your canine companions. This teacher by day and writer by night has a mission to make sure all dogs have what they need to live long and healthy lives.

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