Playing fetch with your dog can be fun and rewarding, but can also be a lot of work. It's time to give your arm a well-deserved rest and choose one of the many dog ball launchers out there. Trust us, its life-changing – for you and your furry friend. You might have already treated your pooch to a new dog lead or even a light up dog collar to keep your pet safe and looking good – but every dog needs exercise and playtime.
Ditch the lead and turn every walk into an interactive dog game, challenge yourself to launch further or see if you can surprise your doggo with an automatic launcher that shoots the ball at random. An excited and happy face and a well-earned nap after all that exercise is reward enough for every dog lover – and we're not just talking about the dog.
Best dog ball launchers of 2024 at a glance
• Best overall: Chuckit! Fetch & Fold Dog Ball Launcher - View at Amazon
• Best budget: Chuckit! Pro 26XL Dog Ball Launcher - View at Amazon
• Best for small dogs: Grezea Automatic Dog Ball Launcher - View at Amazon
• Best long range: Nerf Dog Compact Tennis Ball Blaster - View at Amazon
We all know that our canine chums love to chase things like dog frisbees, so the farther you can throw the better. You might enjoy throwing too, so there are plenty of manual launchers to help you launch that ball to record distances time and time again. But, for those who lack the strength or just want to give their arms a rest, automatic launchers are available too. We think there's no better way to take the strain out of throwing and give your dog a fun workout. Your pet will work up quite an appetite, too – so if you're also looking to take the strain out of mealtimes a dog subscription box will complete your dog care routine.
We've found the latest and greatest manual and automatic dog ball launchers, but which one is best for you? We have a short guide to help you choose at the end of the article, but let's cut to the chase and fetch the best dog ball launchers of the year.
The best dog ball launchers of 2024
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
We think that the best option for anyone looking to start launching dog balls is a simple manual launcher. But the clever thing about this one from Chuckit! is the folding design. It unfolds to 25-inches, which means you can use all that extra leverage to make the ball go even further.
It's a little heavier than some, but we like the sturdy build and comfortable ergonomic grips on offer. It can only be used with Chuckit! Medium style balls, though. But, if this ball size is too small or large for you dog, the company have other sizes to choose from. Fold this up, put in into your bag or stow easily in your car and you and your dog will be ready for a fun walk anytime.
Pros
- Clever folding design means you can easily take a powerful manual launcher with you on your walks
- Compatible with any Chuckit! medium ball, with affordable spares available
- Extremely sturdy and comfortable build
Cons
- Heavier than some others due to the build durability
| Type | Manual |
| Range | 2-3 times further than you can without one |
| Ball compatibility | Medium Chuckit! ball (included) |
| Power requirement | N/A |
| Weight | 277g |
| Dimensions | 38.86 x 10.16 x 6.35 cm |
Yes, Chuckit! makes it back into our list with its practical and powerful Pro 26XL Dog Ball Launcher. Much like the folding version, this one
We particularly like the design of this one, as not only is it made from tough materials, the end that holds the ball is designed to let you pick up the slobber-strewn toy without bending down to use your hands. The ergonomic grip make it comfortable to use, and the Chuckit! XL ball size makes it ideal for larger dogs. You can also use XL tennis balls with this one, for more flexibility.
Pros
- Excellent sturdy budget choice
- Ideal for larger dogs thanks to the XL Chuckit! ball (included) but also compatible with XL tennis balls
- The ball is designed to withstand chewing
Cons
- Too large to stow away, so make sure it's portable enough for you
| Type | Manual |
| Range | 2-3 times further than you can without one |
| Ball compatibility | XL Chuckit! ball or XL tennis ball |
| Power requirement | N/A |
| Weight | 340.19g |
| Dimensions | 66.04 x 10.16 x 10.54 cm |
Small dogs are often the quickest when it comes to playing fetch, which means you might find yourself throwing the ball far more often for comfort. This Grezea Automatic Dog Ball Launcher includes six small 5.1-inch tennis balls which are just the right size for smaller pets. Range-wise, we really love that this has a quick and easy adjustment. So, if your dog only has the patience to go for the ball at shorter distances, you can tweak it between 10, 20 and 30ft.
That said, we do wish it had a little more range for those small dogs that can run a mile in under four seconds, but other than that it's super-practical choice. Lastly, being rechargeable, small and light, you can take this anywhere.
Pros
- Ideal for smaller dogs, thanks to the smaller balls and shorter range
- Rechargeable so you can take this anywhere
- Adjustable launch distance – fine-tune this to suit your dog
Cons
- Not as powerful in terms of range as others
| Type | Automatic |
| Range | 10-30ft |
| Ball compatibility | 5.1 cm diameter small tennis ball (proprietary) |
| Power requirement | Rechargeable |
| Weight | 1.82kg |
| Dimensions | 29 x 27 x 22 cm |
You might know the Nerf brand from its high-profile range of foam-dart-firing guns and rifles for kids. So, it's no surprise that it has branched out into dog ball launchers. This gun-style launcher is really well designed. We love the hands-free ball pickup function (anything to avoid the slobbery ball) and the super-strong spring-loaded firing system. This thing will launch the ball up to 50ft, making it perfect for the more energetic pooch.
Some users do say that the tennis-style Nerf balls are less durable than normal tennis balls, but they're not too costly and are built to travel further so we can live with that. Lastly, for anyone who has mobility issues or arm and wrist problems will find this a lot easier to use than the standard manual launcher.
Pros
- Enormous range thanks to the spring-loaded mechanism
- Hands-free pickup design- avoid the slobber
- Strain-free to use – needs no batteries, ideal for those with mobility issues
Cons
- The balls are not as durable as others
| Type | Spring-loaded |
| Range | Up to 50ft |
| Ball compatibility | Nerf tennis ball |
| Power requirement | N/A |
| Weight | 907g |
| Dimensions | 50.8 x 9.39 x 19.98 cm |
Larger dogs can be some of the more challenging pets to throw a ball for. They often need it throwing a very long way, which can often mean you end up exercising more than the dog. This Automatic Dog Ball Launcher from ALL FOR PAWS can launch a full-sized tennis ball up to 40ft We really like the adjustable range too, so as your dog gets tired you can reduce the range as needed. Once again, this is a rechargeable model so you can take it anywhere.
We have to mention, though, that the three 2.5-inch tennis balls included with this are proprietary. ALL FOR PAWS encourage owners not to use other balls – including rubber or even damaged or dirty ones – or risk damaging the mechanism. That aside, we love the overall design which makes it easy for your dog to learn how to load it themselves for hours of trouble-free fun.
Pros
- An excellent large-ball launcher with adjustable range – ideal for larger dogs
- Tweakable range – adjust between 10, 25 or 40 feet to suit your dog
- Rechargeable and portable for such a powerful large-ball launcher
Cons
- Can only be used with the ALL FOR PAWS balls
| Type | Automatic |
| Range | 10, 25 or 40ft |
| Ball compatibility | All for Paw 2.5 inch tennis balls |
| Power requirement | Rechargeable |
| Weight | 3kg |
| Dimensions | 33 x 33 x 30 cm |
How to choose the best dog ball launcher for you
Similar to buying a dog collar, there are a few factors to keep in mind when securing the perfect dog ball launcher.
Indoor or outdoor: Where will your daily fetch game take place? If you have a small space, go for a product that has a short shooting range
Size of your dog: If you have a medium-large dog breed, go for a large dog ball launcher. If you have a small dog, consider getting a smaller ball launcher model. The key safety thing here is: The ball shouldn't be able to fit entirely inside the dog's mouth to avoid choking. So, make sure your launcher uses the right size of ball for your dog.
Distance settings: Do you want a dog ball launcher with multiple distance settings to vary the exercise? Perhaps you are satisfied with just one distance feature?
Budget: How much are you willing to pay? Is it worth going for a more expensive automatic dog ball launcher or will a manual option (cheaper) be adequate?
How to teach your dog to use an automatic ball launcher
Similar to any routine puppy training, introducing an automatic ball launcher may require some getting used to. Some dogs can get it in the first go, others need a bit of practice. Here are some tips to successfully use one with your dog:
1. If your dog doesn’t get it in the first go, be patient.
2. Warm your dog up to the machine with ten minutes a day, three times a day. If your dog is getting bored, use that as a good excuse to get launching.
3. Reinforce the full process with your dog (throw-and-fetch) to get your dog comfortable with walking back to the machine after collecting a ball. This may take time.
4. After the above, the biggest aim is for your dog to become self-reliant with the automatic ball launcher. This requires you to teach your dog to drop the ball back into the launcher using a reward system. Eventually your dog will know how to play with the ball launcher without your help. Start this process by rewarding your dog (without force or negative reinforcement) when the ball gets dropped close to or around the launcher.
FAQs
What is a dog ball launcher?
A dog ball launcher is designed to help you to do just that. The balls are usually tennis balls, but there are some models designed for smaller dogs that use proprietary balls. Dog ball launchers can launch to a distance of between 10 to 30 feet (but again this depends on the product itself) and are a simple way to exercise your canine companion.
How does an automatic dog ball thrower work?
It depends on the type and model. Most manual launchers use simple lever action to help magnify your throwing power and reduce strain, but automatic models can use a variation of powered internal launching mechanisms to do the job. These can be a spinning belt or mechanical plunger. If you're going automatic, take account of portability and power needs – spare batteries might be a good idea.
What are the benefits of buying a dog ball launcher?
Apart from the obvious personal physical benefits, there are many plusses to using a dog ball launcher. The majority of dogs need a good workout and dog ball launchers can deliver a fun and less strained activity. The key benefits include:
1. Keeping your dog fit, healthy and in shape with minimal effort on your side. Also, it's a great way to play with your dog if you are unfit to do so.
2. Keeping your dog well-trained with an element of surprise and fun. Some automatic dog ball launchers can even work without you present if you need to multitask, but you can combine the activity with treats to encourage and support further training.
3. Keeps your dog mentally occupied and stimulated. This is particularly useful if your dog is prone to boredom-based destructive activities like chewing or excessive barking. And, of course, if you combine this with other more relaxing routines like grooming and using scented dog shampoo and other dog calming products, you'll have a well-balanced and happy pup.
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Chris Duffill is a Senior Tech Writer and Reviewer for What's The Best. His background includes writing, editorial, marketing, design, video production and photography.
He specialises in home entertainment and audiovisual tech, including speakers, amplifiers, turntables, streaming media players, and TVs. He is also one of our resident experts in computing (PCs, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches), DSLR photography and all kinds of digital cameras. He also writes about retro gaming, game consoles and various electronic gadgets. If it plugs in, lights up or makes a noise, he’ll write about it.
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