Herding Balls

Gabriella Foster
19 min readMay 12, 2024

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If you’re looking for a novel and interactive way to engage with pets, look no further than our roundup of the best Herding Balls. Our comprehensive guide showcases the top Herding Balls on the market — catering to all tastes and preferences. Let’s get rolling and dive into the details that will help you make an informed and satisfying choice — herding balls ready, set, go!

The Top 15 Best Herding Balls

  1. Virtually Indestructible Herding Ball for Dogs — Experience ultimate outdoor fun and durability with the Virtually Indestructible Ball by Doggie Dooley, designed for herding and perfect for breeds weighing 30+ lbs. Available in assorted colors, it’s a safe choice for dogs loving exercise and play.
  2. Interactive Dog Soccer Ball with Straps and Pump — 8-Inch Herding Ball — Enhance your dog’s playtime with the World Cup-inspired Herding Ball, featuring a safe and durable PU design, interactive soccer ball with nylon seams, and ultra-bouncing waterproof features for all-weather fun!
  3. Mighty Dog Herding Ball: Durable and Plush Toy for Strong Chewers — Mighty Ball Large Red: A durable, plush toy with a clever scattered hot dogs design for dogs that love to play and chew — perfect for responsible pet owners!
  4. Boomer Ball: Virtually Indestructible Large Dog Herding Ball — The Boomer Ball, a virtually indestructible option for high-energy, ball-loving dogs, offers a tough and durable, large dog ball that floats on water for endless entertainment, making it the perfect boredom buster for any fun-loving canine companion.
  5. FOMAGO Herding Ball for Dogs: Durable Interactive Play for Small to Large Breeds — Experience the thrill of herding with FOMAOGO’s durable 7-inch dog soccer ball for active small, medium, and large dogs, designed to enhance playtime and ensure your pet’s safety.
  6. Engaging Herding Beef Ball Dog Toy — Experience the irresistible scent of Playology’s Herding Ball, a durable, puncture-resistant toy made from dog-safe materials that is perfect for scent-driven breeds, keeps your dog engaged, and encourages healthy playtime.
  7. Wunderball Fetch Toy: Durable and Eco-Friendly Herding Ball for Energetic Dogs — Give your furry friend the ultimate WACKY workout with the eco-friendly, ultra-durable Wunderball Fetch Toy, available in various sizes and bright colors made from all-natural rubber.
  8. SWYIVY Giant Horse Herding Ball — Indoor/Outdoor Play and Training — Revitalize your horse’s training and exercise routine with the SWYIVY Herding Ball, a durable and brightly-colored anti-burst ball designed for optimal grip and play.
  9. Indestructible Dog Herding Ball: Perfect for All Breeds — Indestructible Herding Ball for Dogs: Perfect for Large Breeds, Floats in Water, Made in USA!
  10. Durable Latex-Bacon Scented Dog Herding Ball — Experience the ultimate chewing adventure with the Hartz Dura Play ball, perfect for dogs of all ages, featuring a latex exterior, foam-filled interior, and a bacon scent that drives them wild.
  11. Bacon Scented Medium-Large Dog Herding Ball — Experience endless excitement with Hartz Dura Play Balls designed for medium to large-sized canine companions. These enticing balls boast a mouthwatering bacon aroma and a supple, flexible structure to ensure hours of catch-and-chew fun.
  12. Ultra-Durable RingBall: All-in-One Chew Toy for Big Dogs — Ultra-Durable Dog Ball: Lifetime Replacement Guarantee for Tough Medium and Large Dogs, with Unmatched Chew and Tear Resistance, and Safe, Soft, Waterproof, and FDA Compliant Materials.
  13. Durable Dog Soccer Ball with Nylon Tabs for Interactive Play — Empower your dog’s playtime with the durable and interactive Dog Toys Soccer Ball, a safe, PU-made ball designed for fun games of tug of war, fetch, and more!
  14. Jolly Pets Blue Herding Ball — Experience the pinnacle of unbreakable fetching toys for dogs of all breeds with the Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball Blue 6". This top-notch product, crafted in the USA, even provides assistance to shelter dogs in need.
  15. Durable Non-Toxic Herding Ball for Dogs (Blue) — 10" Size — Jolly Pets 10" Teaser Ball: Durable, non-toxic herding ball with a unique ball-within-ball design, available in blue and red, keeps dogs entertained while providing interactive playtime.

As an Amazon Affiliate I may earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you.

Reviews

Virtually Indestructible Herding Ball for Dogs

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I’ve just started using the Doggie Dooley Virtually Indestructible Ball for my dog, a high-energy Australian Shepherd. It was an instant hit! The ball’s bright color and bouncy nature made it almost irresistible to play with, especially on our daily walks and trips to the park.

One of the standout features of this ball is its durability. My dog loves to chew on toys, but this one hasn’t shown any signs of wear and tear yet, even after several weeks of playtime. But, it’s important to note, it isn’t indestructible, as some reviewers have pointed out. With my dog’s powerful jaws, I’ve had to keep a watchful eye to ensure he doesn’t break or lose pieces of the ball.

The ball’s size is perfect for my dog, medium being the ideal choice for his weight and play style. It’s also light enough to lift without any difficulty, which is important for us since my dog enjoys pushing it around as if he’s playing soccer.

One thing I haven’t been able to get accustomed to is the ball’s loud bouncing sound. It can be quite noisy, especially when played inside on concrete floors. My neighbors have probably been wondering what on earth is making all that ruckus!

Lastly, I’ve found that the ball is more fun when played solo. While my dog loves to fetch and carry it around, I’ve noticed he gets distracted and loses interest during group play sessions.

In conclusion, the Doggie Dooley indestructible ball has become an essential part of our doggie playtime routine. With its durability, versatility, and bright color, my dog loves it, and it certainly keeps him entertained for long periods. Just be prepared to handle the occasional noise and supervise playtime to ensure the ball remains in one piece.

Interactive Dog Soccer Ball with Straps and Pump — 8-Inch Herding Ball

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The Dog Soccer Ball Toys with Straps is a fantastic option for active, playful dogs! Its sturdy design and soft straps make it safe and fun for dogs to play with.

The ball itself is lightweight, buoyant, and ideal for water play, while the straps keep it firmly in their grasp during games of tug of war or fetch. Perfect for birthday gifts, this soccer-style ball is also great for training purposes and can be easily pumped up for use.

Suitable for medium and large dogs, this versatile toy is an excellent way to promote interaction between dogs and their human counterparts while providing hours of entertainment.

Mighty Dog Herding Ball: Durable and Plush Toy for Strong Chewers

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The Mighty Ball Large Red felt like a dependable and durable pal for my furry friend, providing endless entertainment. Its tough yet plush exterior kept him engaged for hours, while the unique scattered hot dogs design added a charming touch to playtime.

I was initially skeptical about its durability when I saw its fleece-like material, but it turned out to be mighty strong. The lack of that harsh white poly stuffing was a refreshing change, ensuring my dog didn’t accidentally ingest any harmful substance.

However, I couldn’t help but wonder if this toy was a bit too large for my pet. The dimensions seemed a tad overwhelming for a smaller dog’s mouth, making it necessary to supervise him while playing. I would have preferred a smaller option for these creatures with smaller maws.

Overall, the Mighty Ball Large Red delivered on its durability promise and provided hours of enjoyment for my little friend. With a few improvements in size, it could become a perfect playtime companion for dogs of all sizes.

Boomer Ball: Virtually Indestructible Large Dog Herding Ball

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The Boomer Ball 10 inch is a virtually indestructible dog toy that’s perfect for dogs who love playing with footballs. This large dog ball is designed to not be picked up by the dog, ensuring hours of entertainment and exercise.

The toy is made from high-quality materials, making it ideal for high-energy dogs who need a tough toy. While it may seem a bit pricey compared to regular footballs, it’s well worth the investment for its durability and ability to keep dogs engaged for a longer period.

The toy’s unusual design allows dogs to chase and play with it without easily picking it up, providing a unique and challenging experience for your furry friend. Overall, the Boomer Ball is a great choice for dog owners looking for a dog toy that’s both durable and entertaining.

FOMAGO Herding Ball for Dogs: Durable Interactive Play for Small to Large Breeds

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The FOMAOGO 7-inch Dog Soccer Ball is an exciting and interactive toy designed especially for dogs. Created with a durable and long-lasting material, this ball ensures your pup’s safety while playing.

The ball is perfect for small to medium-sized dogs and even larger ones, making it an ideal toy for all breeds. With easy-to-handle straps, you can conveniently bring this ball along on outdoor adventures or use it as an indoor interactive toy. The FOMAOGO herding ball is truly a unique and fun way to engage your dog and keep them active and entertained.

Engaging Herding Beef Ball Dog Toy

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The Playology Plush Herding Beef Ball is a delightful treat for your dog! Crafted with a scent that is 10,000 times stronger than ours, it’s no wonder that our canine friends love it. As your dog chews on this toy, the delicious scent is released, keeping them engaged and entertained for a long time.

Crafted with exceptional durability, this plush toy is built to last 4 times longer than other plush toys on the market. The fabric is puncture-resistant, making it a great companion for herding breeds and other active dogs. It’s also made with dog-safe materials, ensuring that your pup is completely safe while playing with their new favorite toy.

One of the best features of the Playology Herding Ball is that it’s treat-free! Over 50% of U. S. dogs are overweight, so you don’t have to worry about adding any extra food to your dog’s diet. Simply allow the all-natural scent to captivate your dog, and let them enjoy this engaging toy.

Although some customers have reported punctures in the toy, we believe that the pros far outweigh the cons. With a scent that lasts for at least 6 months and a durable, puncture-resistant construction, the Playology Plush Herding Beef Ball is a fantastic addition to any dog’s toy collection. So what are you waiting for? Give your dog the treat they deserve with this fantastic toy!

Wunderball Fetch Toy: Durable and Eco-Friendly Herding Ball for Energetic Dogs

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Bring excitement to your doggy’s day with the WUNDERBALL Fetch Toy from WACKYwalk’r. Made from ultra-durable, eco-friendly natural rubber, this ball combines safety and thrilling bouncing action.

Designed for large dogs, this fetch toy helps keep their teeth clean, adds the perfect amount of exercise, and is even suitable for water activities. With its vibrant colors and unique shape, this ball is sure to become your pup’s new favorite playmate. Handcrafted in the USA, each WUNDERBALL is truly one-of-a-kind, making it a thoughtful gift for any wagging tail.

Get ready for endless hours of fun and engaging playtime!

SWYIVY Giant Horse Herding Ball — Indoor/Outdoor Play and Training

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The SWYIVY Herding Ball for Horses is a giant soccer ball with anti-burst capabilities. I’ve been using one of these with my horse daily and the results have been terrific. The bright colors make it easy for both my horse and I to see, and the ribbed surface provides an excellent grip for both of us. What I love most about this ball is its ability to withstand high pressure; it’s never burst, even when the horses get a bit too playful.

As for the downside, which isn’t significant, is the cleaning process, requiring you to hose it down after every use. But overall, the SWYIVY Herding Ball is a top-notch option for keeping your horse engaged and exercised!

Indestructible Dog Herding Ball: Perfect for All Breeds

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I’ve tried the 10-Inch Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs in my daily life, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for active dogs like mine. Unlike other balls, this one is designed for extreme outdoor play and doesn’t encourage chewing or catching. What stood out the most was its durability — my dog couldn’t destroy it, no matter how much he tried.

The ball comes with a warning not to fit it in your dog’s mouth, which was a relief. It even floats in water, making it perfect for aquatic playtime. Made in the USA from tough USA plastic, this ball is perfect for large breeds weighing over 45 lbs. The only downside was that I could only get it in red, orange, or blue, but otherwise, it’s a fantastic product for active dogs.

Durable Latex-Bacon Scented Dog Herding Ball

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The Hartz Dura Play ball offers a unique chewing experience for dogs, combining a tough latex exterior with a foam-filled interior. The bacon scent adds an enticing touch, making it difficult for dogs to resist.

This toy is fun to throw, bounce, and, surprisingly, also floats. The 4.5-inch length makes it easy for dogs of all ages and even for teething puppies to handle.

However, the foam material may create a mess as it falls out from small holes caused by determined chewers. Overall, the Hartz Dura Play ball is a durable and versatile toy that keeps dogs entertained and engaged. Just remember to supervise your pet while they play to ensure their safety.

Bacon Scented Medium-Large Dog Herding Ball

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The Dura Play Ball from Hartz is a must-have for dogs of all ages, making fetch and playtime more fun than ever. Made with unique foam technology, this ball offers enhanced durability and long-lasting entertainment for your furry friend. The bacon scent is not only enticing but also great for encouraging playtime, keeping your dog away from your furniture.

The Dura Play Ball is soft and flexible, accommodating dogs of all ages, from teething puppies to senior dogs. Its natural latex construction makes it perfect for indoor or outdoor use, and the variety of available shapes ensures that it can bounce, float, and squeak in every direction. Plus, with the ear-perking squeaker, you can guarantee that your dog will be begging for more playtime.

While the Dura Play Ball is great for dogs of all ages, be aware that it may cause a mess if your dog manages to puncture it, releasing the foam inside. Still, with its impressive durability and fun features, this is a worthwhile addition to any dog’s toy collection. So go ahead and make fetch time fun and exciting for both you and your dog with the Hartz Dura Play Ball!

Ultra-Durable RingBall: All-in-One Chew Toy for Big Dogs

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Introducing the Ultra Durable RingBall — the ultimate toy for medium and large dogs who love to play and chew. This unbelievably durable toy boasts a lifetime replacement guarantee, ensuring your furry friend can enjoy it for as long as they want. Crafted with a natural rubber compound, the RingBall is puncture, chew, and tear resistant, making it a safe and long-lasting chewing experience for your dog.

Designed for indoor and outdoor play, the RingBall is versatile enough for your pup to use for fetch, tug of war, or simply chewing on their own. The 5.5-inch diameter makes it one of the largest and most versatile toys out there, meaning your pup will tire out before the toy does, providing endless entertainment and exercise.

Each RingBall is made of 100% FDA compliant food-grade rubber, free of lead, BPA’s, phthalates, and other toxins. Its heavy-duty design ensures that it won’t harm your dog’s health or your floors and furniture, unlike many other so-called durable dog toys on the market. Plus, it’s top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

The RingBall is the perfect solution for your dog’s aggressive chewing habits, ensuring that your furry friend can enjoy a safe and long-lasting chewing experience. With its unbeatable durability and endless fun, it’s an investment that will last your pup a lifetime. Order now and discover the satisfaction and joy that the Ultra Durable RingBall can bring to your beloved companion.

Durable Dog Soccer Ball with Nylon Tabs for Interactive Play

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The Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Grab Tabs is a fantastic interactive toy for dogs, offering a range of fun activities such as tug of war and fetching. The product’s unique design includes nylon tabs sewn evenly into the seams, creating an erratic bounce that dogs love to chase. The soccer ball is made of premium PU material, which complies with the exact same safety standard as children’s toys, ensuring it is both soft and durable.

The tennis ball-shaped design features dog paws printed on its surface, making it more attractive to dogs. The product comes in two sizes, one for dogs weighing 20–40lbs and another for larger dogs weighing 30–90lbs. The longer strap attached to the ball enables people to hold onto it, making it a great interactive toy for both dogs and their owners.

While this product is suitable for training and playing, it is worth mentioning that some dogs might pop the ball with their teeth. However, this doesn’t appear to be an issue as they seem to understand the ball is different from regular chew toys. Overall, the Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Grab Tabs is an engaging and durable ball that offers hours of fun for dogs and their pet parents.

Jolly Pets Blue Herding Ball

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The Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball in a 6-inch size has become my go-to dog toy for my energetic pooch. He absolutely loves this ball and spends hours playing with it, trying to herd it around the yard. The best part is that it’s incredibly durable, and even though we’ve had it for a while, it’s still in great shape.

The ball has a unique design that allows it to roll and float on water, making it a perfect addition for dogs who love water play. I love that I can fill it up with water, sand or gravel to provide an extra challenge for my dog. It’s been a great way for him to relieve pent-up energy, especially during the rainy days when we can’t play outside.

One of the things that stood out to me is that this ball is designed for constant motion, making it a great toy for dogs who love pushing and herding. My pooch is always on the hunt, trying to push the ball around with his nose and paws. I’m glad that it hasn’t been chewed up yet, as the hard plastic makes it difficult for him to bite into it.

However, there is one small drawback — the size of the ball. It’s a bit small for bigger dogs, and I had to make sure my dog didn’t pick it up with his jaw, as it could pose a choking hazard. But overall, I’m thrilled with this Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball, and I’d highly recommend it for any dog owner looking for a sturdy, safe, and fun toy for their pooch.

Durable Non-Toxic Herding Ball for Dogs (Blue) — 10" Size

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Looking for a fun and durable toy for your furry friend? The Jolly Pets Teaser Ball in blue is just the thing! With its unique ball-within-ball design, it’s sure to keep your dog entertained for hours on end.

Plus, it’s made from non-toxic materials and comes in two sizes (6" and 10") and two colors (red and blue). Just be careful, as the thin plastic exterior can quickly turn sharp — especially when the inner ball rattles around.

Overall, a great option for dogs that love to chase and chew!

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to choosing the perfect herding ball, there are several important factors to consider. From size and shape to materials and durability, a well-chosen ball can make a world of difference in keeping your dog engaged and entertained. Let’s take a closer look at the key features you’ll want to look for when selecting a herding ball.

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Size and Shape

The size of the ball can play a crucial role in determining its overall effectiveness. A ball that is too small may be easily lost or forgotten, while one that is too large could be difficult for your dog to handle or carry. A good rule of thumb is to choose a ball that is roughly the size of your dog’s head, ensuring that it is neither too large nor too small.

Material

The material of the herding ball is another important consideration. Durability is key, as a well-made ball should be able to withstand rough play without getting damaged or falling apart. Look for balls made from high-quality, resilient materials such as rubber or hard plastic. Not only will these materials stand up to wear and tear, but they are also generally more comfortable for your dog to chew on.

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Durability

In addition to the material, you’ll want to pay attention to the overall durability of the herding ball. Look for a ball with strong stitching or welds, as well as reinforced areas such as the fetch end or handle. This will help ensure that the ball can withstand the rough and tumble of playtime without falling apart on you.

Color and Texture

Finally, don’t forget about the fun factor! Herding balls come in a wide variety of colors and textures, so choose one that your dog will find irresistible. Bright, bold colors are generally more eye-catching and engaging, but be sure to also consider your dog’s personal preferences. Some dogs may prefer a smoother, glossier finish, while others might enjoy the added grip and texture of a more matte or rough surface.

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FAQ

What is a Herding Ball?

A Herding Ball is a popular pet agility toy designed to make training and playing with your pets more interactive and engaging. These balls are usually filled with a buoyant material that helps them float when thrown in water, making it ideal for dogs who love aquatic activities. Their durable construction and bright colors make them easily noticeable for pets and owners alike, encouraging play and encouraging mental and physical stimulation.

They come in various sizes, shapes, and materials to cater to different preferences and pet types. The most common types of Herding Balls include the traditional rubber ball, the hollow rubber ball, and the waterproof ball. All of which offer a range of benefits to aid in training, exercise, and overall well-being of your pets.

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What is the difference between a Herding Ball and a regular ball?

The primary difference between a Herding Ball and a regular ball lies in their size, shape, and material. Herding Balls are typically larger than regular balls, making them more visible and easier for pets to catch and carry. This size also allows for a more extensive range of motion when thrown or retrieved.

Additionally, Herding Balls are often filled with a buoyant material, making them more suitable for aquatic environments. This feature allows pets to play and swim with them, further enhancing their exercise and agility training. Lastly, the various shapes and materials available for Herding Balls add to their uniqueness and appeal for pets and owners alike.

Which type of Herding Ball is best for my pet?

The choice of Herding Ball depends on several factors, including the pet’s size, breed, and preferences. Small and medium-sized dogs may benefit from smaller Herding Balls, as they are easier to handle and catch. For larger dogs or those with a high retrieval drive, a larger Herding Ball would be more suitable as it can provide more intense stimulation and satisfaction.

If your pet enjoys water play, consider opting for a waterproof Herding Ball, as it will remain functional and enjoyable even when submerged in water. Rubber herding balls are also a popular choice, as they are durable, easy to clean, and available in various colors to cater to different preferences.

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How do I train my pet with a Herding Ball?

Training your pet with a Herding Ball can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both you and your pet. Start by showing your pet the ball and making it appear interesting and enticing. Encourage your pet to approach the ball and play with it gently by waving it or tossing it lightly in the air.

As your pet becomes more comfortable and interested in the ball, you can gradually increase the level of play and difficulty. Teach your pet basic commands such as “fetch” or “carry” by guiding them to retrieve the ball and return it to you. Use positive reinforcement, such as verbal praise or treats, to encourage good behavior and reward progress.

What is the best way to clean a Herding Ball?

Keeping your Herding Ball clean and hygienic is essential for maintaining its durability and usability. To clean a Herding Ball, begin by rinsing it thoroughly with water to remove any loose dirt or debris. If necessary, use a mild soap or detergent specifically designed for pet toys to gently clean the surface.

Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the ball’s surface and pose a risk to your pet. After cleaning, allow the Herding Ball to dry completely before storing it away to prevent mold or mildew growth. Regular upkeep and proper cleaning will ensure your Herding Ball remains in top condition for your pet to use and enjoy.

Can I use a Herding Ball for training dogs with separation anxiety?

While a Herding Ball can be a useful tool in assisting in separation anxiety training for some dogs, it is not a sole solution for this issue. Separation anxiety is a complex condition that often requires professional guidance and a combination of treatments, including behavior modification therapy, medication, and environmental changes.

To use a Herding Ball in the context of separation anxiety training, begin by teaching your pet to associate the ball with your presence and calm atmosphere. Practice playing with the ball while you are in the room, and gradually progress to playing with it while you are at a safe distance from your pet to test their tolerance and comfort levels. Always consult with a professional veterinarian or behaviorist for guidance on the most effective treatment plan for your pet’s separation anxiety.

As an Amazon Affiliate I may earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you.

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