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Fun and Efficient: The Best Dog Ball Launcher

author-image
By Jarett Gilpin
Last updated: 24 Oct 2024

All dog owners must have come across a moment when they throw a ball and ask their dog to fetch it. If your pup is one of those dogs who love to fetch, then here is a chance to take the game to the next level so that your dog can enjoy it the most would be a great idea. Here a dog ball launcher comes in, a great alternative way to throw a ball for your dog. There are different dog ball launchers, each with a unique way of throwing the ball. While some ball launchers will require you to be there, others enable dogs to play with them on their own independently. All ball launchers work by loading usual or special tennis balls and then throwing them at a certain range. Most ball launchers can throw up to 30 feet, and most of them don't even require direct energy; they are portable and work with batteries.

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Top Dog Ball Launchers in 2024 Reviewed
  • 1 Franklin Sports Dog Ball Launcher
  • 2 ChuckIt! Sport Ball Launcher
  • 3 Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster
  • 4 Hyper Pet Dog Ball Launcher
  • 5 Franklin Pet Supply Dog Fetch Toy
  • 6 IDOGMATE Rechargeable Automatic Pet Ball Launcher

Finest Dog Ball Launchers Buying Guide

You may wonder why you need a launcher when you can throw the ball with your bare hands. Well, dog ball launchers are a great way to boost your dog’s morale. Dogs seem to get more excited when balls are thrown with colorful machines. Moreover, other than the joy, there are various other benefits, not only for your dog but you too; we shall consider all these factors one by one below. We will also discuss which dog launchers are best for you and your dog.

Top Factors to Consider When Buying a Dog Ball Launcher

Dogs size

The first important thing to consider while buying a dog launcher is your pet’s size. If you have a small puppy, go with a small machine and balls up to 1.75 inches. Do not go with small balls for bigger breeds, as they might swallow them. Use the standard ball size for them.

Types of ball launchers

There are three kinds of dog ball launchers; manual, automatic, and semi-automatic. Manual and semi-automatic dog launchers are the best if you want to have some fun with your dog. They are also safer as they are under your supervision. The automatic one comes in handy if you could train your dog to use it; otherwise, you will be wasting money if you are still required to push buttons later. The three have their pros and cons, like the price difference that we shall discuss below.

For houses or parks

The next thing to consider is whether you will be using the launcher indoors or outdoors. Well, most of you will be looking for an outdoor ball launcher, and that makes more sense as you can easily throw it at a short distance inside your home with bare hands. Still, some people with big lawns want launchers to use inside a house; in this case, it’s best to go with small and safer launchers. Also, it is advised to go with more automatic ones for playing inside the houses as they can be plugged in all day.

Range of the launchers

Launchers tend to have different ranges as per se their use. You can buy any launcher without getting its range in the account if you have a small puppy or a lazy dog because most launchers can easily shoot above 20 feet. However, if you have an active dog, it’s best to see the maximum range of a particular launcher because you can later decrease the range of that launcher.

Size of the balls

Another important thing is the size of the balls that the launcher uses. Checking a simple diameter is an important thing to do; otherwise, it could lead to choking your dog. For bigger dogs, it is best to use tennis balls with a diameter of more than two inches.

Value

The stick ones are the cheapest of the three kinds of launchers, stick, gun, and automatic machines. But you will need to swing your arm along with it to throw; the gun ones are a little more expensive than that, but you will still need to pull the trigger and aim; machine ones are the most expensive, but they come with many features. It’s totally up to you which one is the most suitable for you and your pocket.

Power source

Manual ones like the stick and gun launchers don’t require any batteries; however, the automatic ones do. They either come with rechargeable or replaceable batteries. If you were buying for home use, it would be helpful to go with the ones that come with a power cable to constantly supply its current so that your dog can come and play with it whenever it wants.

Benefits of Using a Ball Launcher

Fetching is the most popular game played with dogs, and it is very beneficial for your dog’s health. Many popular dog breeds are trained to run and fetch things for their owners. Ball launchers are a great and modern way to do that. Following are the benefits of using a ball launcher:

  • Keeps your dog excited: Ball launchers tend to be more exciting for your pet to play with rather than regular fetch with hands.
  • Throws at a particular range: Dog launchers can throw at a definite range enabling you to check your dog’s daily activity. Launchers also have sets for different ranges to increase the uncertainty of where the ball will land, making your dog more excited.
  • It makes things easier for you: You may be a very busy person or are too old to bend and pick up balls to throw for your dog. Then, in this case, the ball launcher automatically does the job for you. You can easily pick up balls even with manual launchers without bending.
  • Automatic fetching: If you are not around, the automatic ball launchers enable the dog to play fetch independently with the machine. However, they would require training that we shall discuss below.
  • Better health: Automatic dog launchers and soft tennis balls are a great way to stimulate your dog’s mind and physical health. This game helps to retrieve a dog’s anxiety as dogs are known to be very anxious.

Using an Automatic Ball Launcher

To use automatic ball launchers to their full extent, you will need to train your dog how to use them. Some dogs might get used to the launcher easily, while most dogs will get scared or hesitate to get the hang of the new device. Here is the best way to train your dog to use automatic ball launchers to their full extent. You will need to train your dog how to use them. Some dogs might get used to the launcher easily, while most dogs will get scared or hesitate to get the hang of the new device. Anyhow here is the best way to train your dog to use it;

First of all, get your dog excited about the new machine, and play for a little time every day, like 5 minutes. Don’t often play initially, and avoid playing simultaneously, so your dog doesn’t get bored. Then slowly start the regular training of making the dog put balls in the machine rather than handing it over to you. Reward your pup every time it drops the ball into the machine to fasten the process of learning.

It will take time; however, once your dogs learn to play with the ball launcher completely on their own, then it will be worth the product and your time.

Top Dog Ball Launchers in 2024 Reviewed

1

Franklin Sports Dog Ball Launcher

– Best Overall
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Buy on Amazon
THE SCOOP

Elevate your dog’s playtime with the Franklin Sports Dog Ball Launcher – the ultimate gadget for endless interactive fun. This automatic tennis ball launcher ensures continuous play, providing your furry friend with a thrilling fetching experience.

Forget the hassle of constantly replacing batteries. The launcher comes with a power adapter for convenient plug-and-play action. For those times when an outlet isn’t available, the launcher also features a battery compartment that can accommodate 8 D size Alkaline Batteries (sold separately), ensuring your playtime knows no bounds.

Safety is a top priority, and the launcher has you covered. Set the motor dial to your desired distance, and enjoy peace of mind with a safety mode alert that signals your pet when the ball is about to launch. Worried about noise? Don’t be – the sound feature can be easily turned on and off to suit your preferences.

Adaptability is key, and the Franklin Sports Dog Ball Launcher delivers. With adjustable feet, you can change the launch angle to three positions, providing added flexibility to cater to your dog’s play style. Get ready to transform fetch time into an exciting adventure with the Franklin Sports Dog Ball Launcher – the best overall companion for your active and playful pup.

Pros
  • Easy to assemble and use
  • Fun for small and big dogs
  • Doesn’t make a lot of noise
Cons
  • Batteries are not included
2

ChuckIt! Sport Ball Launcher

– Great for Active Dogs
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Buy on Amazon
THE SCOOP

If you’re looking for something that can tire even the most active retriever, this is your go-to. ChuckIt! Sport Ball Launcher is ideal for throwing balls up to 140 feet away. It holds a socket large enough to hold a tennis ball. It is available in multiple colors and sizes, ranging from 26″ to 12″ in length, ideal for medium-sized breeds. It is a must-have if you don’t want to hurt your throwing arm yet still want to provide your pup with the play-time they need. It is budget-friendly as well.

Pros
  • It is budget Friendly
  • From a recognized brand
  • Flexible and durable
Cons
  • The ball may be defective
3

Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster

– Easiest to Use
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Buy on Amazon
THE SCOOP

If you are looking for something portable and manual yet fun, this might be a good choice. It is like a gun that works with standard 2.5 inches tennis balls or special balls by Nerf itself. The gun is loaded and then shot by pulling the trigger on it. The gun can throw the ball far, and it is safe for your pup as it is in your hand. Moreover, you don’t even need to pick up the ball with bare hands as they are not clean; you can pick them directly up with the gun’s barrel.

Pros
  • Easy to use a gun like a launcher
  • Can through up to 50 feet
  • Supports standard tennis balls
  • Safe to use
Cons
  • The trigger gets stuck if used roughly
4

Hyper Pet Dog Ball Launcher

– Most Lightweight
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Buy on Amazon
THE SCOOP

Another great gun-based ball launcher is manual and portable. It is also easy to load and shoot. It comes in vibrant color and some extra space for more balls. It is simply used by loading the ball into the gun, then pulling the lever and releasing it via a trigger. The guns can adjust the distance to shoot per the liver you pull. The package contains a k-9 launcher and also a free tennis ball. It also supports standard tennis balls. Moreover, to pick up balls hands-free with this launcher, just place the end of the gun on the ball and gently push, then pull the lever, and you are ready to shoot.

Pros
  • Easy and safe to use
  • Light in weight
  • Has extra storage for two balls
  • Comes with a brightly colored tennis ball
Cons
  • Unable to shoot at long distances
5

Franklin Pet Supply Dog Fetch Toy

– Most Affordable
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Buy on Amazon
THE SCOOP

A great way to enjoy fetching with your dog is to exercise yourself a little. Franklin dog fetching toy is a great way to throw balls long distances with minimal effort. The mechanism is simple; you just need to lock the ball inside the stick and then swing it to throw it as far as possible. Furthermore, due to the flexibility of the stick, you can easily cover a large distance after some practice. Some people tend to find it difficult to bend and pick up balls constantly, so last but not least, due to the prominent length of the stick, it is easy for you to pick up balls from the ground without bending.

Pros
  • It is affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Strong holding grip
  • The package comes with premium quality balls
Cons
  • Difficult to swing balls with these launchers
6

IDOGMATE Rechargeable Automatic Pet Ball Launcher

– Comes With a Remote
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Buy on Amazon
THE SCOOP

If you want to take things to the next level, this one is an advanced ball launcher. It is rechargeable and easy to operate with remote control—this one’s for smaller dogs or puppies under 14 kgs. Depending upon the nature of your dog, you can choose the ball for this launcher; for example, if your dog is aggressive, then choose the durable ball of 1.75inches. Furthermore, the ball used for this launcher is organic and much safer than ordinary balls. Usage of the product is simple, once charged, you or your pet can put the ball inside the box afterward, and you can throw the ball at a selected distance via the remote control or by directly pressing on the box.

Pros
  • Advanced playing toy
  • Puppies directly interact with the box
  • Easy to use
  • It comes with one year of warranty
Cons
  • It is not suitable for bigger dogs.

People Also Asked

Q: Do all ball launchers require special balls?

A: No, most of them don't; however, it's best to check the product description.

Q: Is an automatic ball launcher worth buying?

A: Yes, if you have an active dog and you are not around to play with, then it is.

Q: Are dog launchers safe?

A: Yes! They are; just don't forget to use small launchers and small balls for puppies.

Contributors

author-image
Jarett Gilpin
Notre Dame Police Detection Dog Handler
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