The Best Balls For Dogs

For dog owners, there's nothing more fun than playing a good old game of fetch with your pooch. As you know, dogs will play fetch with just about anything. However, not all fetch toys are made equally. Sticks can splinter with chewing and potentially hurt your dog, and tennis balls can tear apart in mere minutes if your dog is an aggressive chewer. That's why the best move for dog owners is to purchase a high-quality dog ball. Dog balls are specifically designed and engineered to withstand excessive chewing from your dog. In this piece, we've assembled our picks for the best dog balls on the market. Keep reading to discover more.

What to Look For

When it comes to finding the right dog ball, durability is the most important factor to consider. However, there are a few other particulars that you would be keen to remember during your search. If you tend to play with these products indoors, it’s best to grab a dog ball that doesn’t have an inordinately loud squeaker. Your dog might love to get that ball squeaking, but your ears may beg to differ after a while. At the same time, it might not be such a big deal if you plan to primarily play fetch outside. With all that in mind, we love the Ultra Balls from Chuckit! because they’re so darn strong. That means they’ll last a long time, even if your pooch likes to chew and chew. For something more mentally stimulating, though, Wobble Wag’s interactive Giggle Ball is the move. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a ball that can keep their dog entertained while they’re away from home. For more on these and our other favorites, keep on reading.

Chuckit! Ultra Balls

Chew on this

These fun dog balls feature a textured surface and durable rubber center strong enough to withstand aggressive chewers.
Best Overall

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You can never have enough dog balls if you have an active dog. These Ultra Balls from Chuckit! are affordable, durable, and super fun alternatives to tennis balls and other pricey dog toys. Despite your dog’s best efforts, the impressively strong rubber core can withstand repeated chewing. The Ultra Ball also boasts a considerable bounce when thrown at the ground or walls.

Pros:

  • We like that the bright orange color of the Ultra Ball makes it easy to find when playing fetch in fields or parks.
  • If you already have a Chuckit! dog ball launcher, the medium-size Ultra Ball fits perfectly inside the launcher.

Cons:

  • These dog balls are durable, but they might be too bulky for smaller dogs.

Wobble Wag Giggle Ball

Play ball

We think your dog will want to play with this uniquely squeaky dog ball all the time, even when you're out of the house.
Best Interactive

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When you leave for work, it’s easy for your dog to get lonely, restless, and even destructive. However, the Wobble Wag Giggle Ball may help deter your dog from wreaking havoc on your personal belongings. This delightfully squeaky dog ball encourages your dog to play when no one else is around due to its engaging sounds and rollable size. What’s more, the six clutch pockets on this dog ball make it easy for dogs of any size to pick up the ball.

Pros:

  • We found that the squeaky sounds emitted from the Wobble Wag Giggle Ball may help soothe anxious dogs with separation anxiety issues.
  • The loud squeaks make this an excellent dog ball for dogs with vision impairment.

Cons:

  • Although the squeaking sounds are what make this dog ball unique, they’re also what can make it tiresome after prolonged use.

Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz

A feast of squeaks

If your dog loves chewing on your balls, these sturdy lookalikes are a durable alternative.
Best Squeaky Toy

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If you’re tired of your dog destroying all of your expensive tennis balls, Outward Hound’s Squeaker Ballz are here to save the day — and your wallet. These colorful dog balls imitate the look and feel of real tennis balls with a couple of notable modifications that your dog will love. Unlike regular tennis balls, these dog balls house a squeak toy inside their core. Your dog will go nuts with excitement during your next fetch session.

Pros:

  • We like that they offer varied sizes so you can find the right ball for your dog.
  • The softer outer core of these dog balls makes it much easier for your dog to squeak than bulkier alternatives.

Cons:

  • While we’re big fans of the low price and vibrant colors, Outward Hound’s Squeaker Ballz could stand to be a bit more durable.

Chuckit! Fetch Medley

Three for all

Your dog is sure to pass the time with this varied selection of three ultra-fun dog balls.
Best Variety Pack

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If your dog quickly grows bored of their toys, this Fetch Medley dog ball variety pack from Chuckit! is an excellent solution for you. This three-pack of ultra-fun dog balls features the glow-in-the-dark Max Glow Ball, the Whistler, and the extraordinarily bouncy Rebounce Ball. Take all three to the park and test them out to see which one your dog takes a liking to.

Pros:

  • We love that the glow-in-the-dark dog ball extends your playtime by hours once it gets dark outside.
  • The Rebounce Ball is a must-have for owners who want to try their hand at a game of doggie wall ball.

Cons:

  • There’s a lot of fun to be had with this variety pack from Chuckit! but it should be noted that the Whistler dog ball can sometimes be defective.

Chuckit! Breathe Right Dog Ball

Like no other

This aerodynamic dog ball soars through the air with ease, and thanks to its unique design, it's easy for dogs of all sizes to pick up.
Most Unique Design

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Next to durability, aerodynamics is an important factor to consider when purchasing a dog ball. The Breathe Right dog ball is incredibly easy to throw and even easier for your dog to pick up. The hollow design allows your dog to chew on it while still maintaining its durability.

Pros:

  • The unique design of this dog ball enables your dog to breathe while the ball is in its mouth, unlike solid dog balls that can potentially block airflow.
  • The irregular design causes the ball to bounce in some unexpected and fun ways, always keeping your dog on its toes when playing.

Cons:

  • Due to its mesh-like construction, throwing it properly can take some getting used to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I buy these dog balls over regular tennis balls?

Of course, dogs will play with just about anything. However, if you want to save money, switching from tennis balls to dog balls can save you a pretty penny. Not to mention, many dog balls are easier for your dog to pick up and chew on than regulation tennis balls.

Do dog balls have a lot of bounce?

Some dog balls have a considerable amount of bounce, while others have less. For instance, the Ultra Ball from Chuckit! is a perfect example of a dog ball that can bounce a great deal.

About the Author

With extensive experience as a professional dog handler, Nick wants to help owners choose the best possible products for their pooches. Since dogs show their humans such unconditional love, Nick believes it's only fair that we give it right back to them -- and who wouldn't want to? He has had dogs since elementary school himself, so you can trust him to have the best advice on canine care.

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