10 Fun Herding Ball Options for Dogs [2021]

Do you need to tire out your energetic furry companion? Are you looking for an interactive toy for your dog who is left home alone? There’s an interesting toy for that, a herding ball for dogs.

Look no further! A herding ball may be the perfect interactive toy for your dog.

We examined different products for the best herding ball option and narrowed it down to 10. You’ll find the reviews on each below with the pros and cons. If you know what you need, click the quick links to products:

1. Monster K9 Dog Toys – Ultra Durable Solid Ball
2. Boomer Ball
3. Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs
4. Dog Toys Balls, Herding Ball for Dogs
5. Banfeng Giant 9.5″ Dog Tennis Ball Large
6. Herding Ball for Dogs
7. MIDOG Indestructible Dog Soccer Ball for Medium Small Dogs
8. TIHOPAR Herding Ball for Dogs
9. Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball Dog Toy
10.  Varsity Pets Basketball Design Dog Toy

Even small dogs can destroy soft toys in minutes. Here is our Chihuahua Aleeke ending the existence of a bulb-shaped stress ball.

What is a herding ball?

A herding ball is a great interactive dog toy that can be played by your dog, with or without your input. They are usually large and strong balls that are specifically designed for dogs to move around.

Ordinary balls simply aren’t sturdy enough to withstand the aggressive chewing and constant biting. The best herding balls are usually made of strong material that doesn’t give way when it is bitten. The balls are so big that they can’t fit in a dog’s mouth.

A herding ball is too big and heavy for your dog to lift and carry. These balls don’t bounce like ordinary balls. The correct way to play with a herding ball is to push and chase it. For large dogs, the herding ball should also be large.

One great way to make sure your herding ball will last forever is the correct size. Select a ball that is bigger than your dog’s mouth. However, it should be small enough for him to almost get it in his mouth and in some cases maybe even stay in the mouth for a few seconds before sliding out. Here’s an example that we use with smaller dogs. As you can see on the label, “It is not a chew toy.”

How do you use a herding ball?

Herding balls are an essential part of any dog toy basket. Here’s how you can use a herding ball:

The herding ball can be used as positive reinforcement: If your dog enjoys chasing, it can be used as a reward in your next training session. For many dogs, a perfect herding ball is much more rewarding than dog treats.

A fun and easy way to train: When you let your dog chase the herding ball, it becomes a fun and easy way to get some training. Chasing helps increase your dog’s impulse control.

A great bonding activity: If you look for a fun way to bond with your canine pal, herding balls can be a great choice. Playing with herding balls is a great way to spend quality time with your dog. It builds and deepens bonds between dog and owner. It’s a lot of fun for the dog and the owner alike.

Keep your dog occupied in your absence: They prevent your furry pal from becoming bored and depressed while you are away from home. It can be played both indoors and outdoors. You can fence off an area for your dog to play in.

Why do dogs like herding balls?

By playing with perfect herding balls, your dog gets plenty of exercise. Dogs love herding balls and can play with them for hours without getting bored.

Here’re some of the reasons why the herding ball is good for dogs:

Herding ball can express their natural instinct: Herding dog breeds are bred to herd and chase! A dog herding ball allows them to act instinctively, and that makes them satisfied and pleased.

Keeps your dog busy and stress-free: The herding ball creates a useful distraction for your dog. As your dog plays with a herding ball, it redirects destructive chewing. When a dog engages in chasing a jolly ball, they are less likely to exhibit behavioral problems.

Stimulate your dog’s mind: Playing with a herding ball will give your dog great mental stimulation.

Increases your dog’s confidence: Chasing is a great way to open up some shy dogs and can help dogs build their confidence.

Teeth and jaw muscle exercise: Your dog will end up with better dental hygiene just by playing with the herding ball.

A fun way to burn pent-up energy: When it comes to exercising your pooch, you can never go wrong with a herding ball. Herding ball provides terrific mental and physical exercise for your dog. When your dog moves around and spends a lot of energy during the day then consider using high-protein food to add muscle mass.

10 Best Herding Balls for dogs

Ready to get started? One of the most important things is to get the best herding ball for your dog. There are a lot of herding balls to choose from, and your dog will definitely like them. Let’s look at the best herding balls that your dog can enjoy:

1.  Monster K9 Dog Toys – Ultra Durable Solid Ball

Whether you have an aggressive cheer or a high-energy dog, the Monster K9 Solid ball is designed and proven to be durable. The herding ball is perfect for medium and large dogs. It is suitable for German Shepherds, Pitbulls, Great Dane, Labs, and more.

The natural rubber compound is engineered to be very strong and indestructible. This natural rubber compound is 100 percent safe and non-toxic. Give your big furry pal a real challenge with a herding ball they’ll love!

Monster K9 Dog Toys – Ultra Durable Solid Ball maintains a 4.4-star rating from customers.

Key Features

• Lifetime Replacement Guarantee
• For medium and large dogs
• Tested and approved by aggressive chewers
• 100% safe and non-toxic
• Great for fetch, chewing, and tug of war

Pros

• Some positive reviews state that this herding ball held up longer than any other.
• Reviewers back up claim that it’s a really tough rubber ball for powerful chewers.
• Good replacement policy and great customer service
• Great product for dogs who love to play catch!
• This ball won’t splinter and won’t harm your dog’s dental health

Cons

• Some reviews report that this ball is not indestructible. It is not suitable for aggressive chewers.

 

2. Boomer Ball

Boomer Ball is manufactured for those dogs who love to chase, herd, and push things around their nose. It is particularly designed not to be picked up by your dog. Despite its weight, this herding ball can float in water. The waterproof material makes Boomer Ball an ideal toy for dogs that love water.

The Boomer Ball allows dogs to use their natural instinct to chase. It is designed to keep dogs physically and mentally stimulated for hours. The Boomer Ball is made from tough polyethylene material that most dogs can’t puncture or shred.

Boomer Ball maintains a 4.2-star rating.

Key Features

• Durable and virtually indestructible ball
• made from polyethylene
• Puncture proof
• One of the toughest dog toys on the market
• Great for outdoor use and your dog’s exercise
• Floats in water

Pros

• Some positive reviews state that the herding ball provides hours of fun for big working dogs.
• Reviewers back up claim that dogs get plenty of exercises chasing this dog herding ball.
• Well-suited for high-energy dogs who need a tough toy.
• Great for a hyper dog.

Cons

• Some reviews report that the dog herding ball is way too hard and does not bounce.

 

3. Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs

The Virtually Indestructible Ball is a durable dog toy that will last and last. It is made of hard, high-density polyethylene that is safe, washable, and durable. The hard plastic ball floats in water.

The large indestructible dog ball is available in four sizes so that you can choose appropriately for your dog. The ball will exercise your dog like no other and is perfect for dogs who love pushing and herding.

Doggie Dooley Indestructible Ball has a 4.1 -star rating from customers.

Key Features

• Available in 4 sizes
• Material: hard, high-density polyethylene
• Assorted colors: red, orange, blue
• Safe and washable
• Durable
• Floats in water
• Made in the USA
• Perfect for large breeds over 100 lbs

Pros

• Customers have mentioned that the ball is perfect if you have a herding breed.
• Reviewers back up claim that the ball is absolutely durable.
• The ball is a great attention grabber and keeps your dog busy for hours.
• Provides physical and mental stimulation and hours of fun for a high-energy dog.

Cons

• Some buyers have complained that the ball is not suitable for heavy cheers.
• Some reviews report that the Virtually Indestructible Ball is bad for canine teeth.

 

4. Dog Toys Balls, Herding Ball for Dogs

The herding ball for dogs is tear-resistant and very durable with a rubber-like elasticity. The surface of the herding dog ball is covered with uneven massage points. This allows your dog to massage the nose and mouth area at any time.

The herding ball for dogs has a soft texture and is made with high-performance EVA material. There is no need to pump as the ball will not deflate or lose shape.

Your dog can play indoors, in the water, and outdoors. The ball will quickly become one of your dog’s favorite interactive dog toys.

This herding ball for dogs maintains a 3.5-star rating.

Key Features

• Available in two colors, yellow and blue
• Large size but lightweight
• Tear-resistant
• Made of high-performance EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) material
• Float on water, ideal for water play
• Non-toxic
• Unique massage points

Pros

• The best thing about this ball is it will not be punctured to lose shape and become unplayable.
• Reviewers back up claim that the ball is worth every penny.
• Dogs absolutely love this ball and do not get bored when playing with the ball.
• Your dog plays happily with the ball, both indoor and outdoor.

Cons

• Some buyers found it not sturdy and chew-proof enough

 

5. Banfeng Giant 9.5″ Dog Tennis Ball Large

Banfeng Giant Dog Tennis Ball is made of rubber and felt material. The material is non-toxic, non-abrasive, and is safe for your dog’s teeth. This giant tennis ball will be shipped without inflating and comes with an inflating needle.

The bright green color oversized ball attracts your dog’s curiosity. The Banfeng Giant Dog Tennis Ball helps to increase your dog’s physical activity while keeping them happy and occupied. The ball can be a great gift for your furry child. You can create beautiful memories with your dog and family.

This herding ball for dogs maintains a 4.0 -star rating from thousands of customer reviews.

Key Features

• Suitable for small, medium, and large dogs
• Will be shipped without inflating
• Safe and non-toxic
• Made of rubber and felt material
• Bright and attractive color

Pros

• Some positive reviews state that it is a great toy to have indoors and outdoors.
• Reviewers back up claim that the ball provides hours of fun for dogs.
• The ball is strong and will last a few months.
• The ball is super easy to blow up.
• Helps increase your dog’s physical activity.

Cons

• Some buyers have complained that the giant ball is not made of durable stuff. Not recommended for dogs that weigh 20lbs or more.

 

6. Herding Ball for Dogs

This herding ball for dogs is constructed from ETPU material. It has excellent thermoplastic elastomer elasticity and deformation resilience. The herding ball can withstand strong chewing. It is safe, healthy, and odorless and can withstand aggressive chewing.

It is suitable for dogs of all sizes and provides tons of fun for dogs. The dog ball can float in the water. The interactive ball toy can be washed easily with water and is easy to dry.

This herding ball for dogs maintains a 4.2 -star rating on the web.

Key Features

• Material: ETPU
• The ball can float on the water
• Safe and odorless
• Dirt-resistant and easy to clean
• Works well for all-size dogs
• Elasticity and deformation resilience

Pros

• Buyers have recommended this well-constructed ball for their dogs.
• Reviewers back up claim that the ball is super lightweight and durable.
• Customers have mentioned that the ball is stronger than it looks.
• Provides joyful, interactive playing.
• Great for outdoor fetching games.

Cons

• Multiple online reviewers reported that the ball is not as big as it appears.

 

7. MIDOG Indestructible Dog Soccer Ball for Medium Small Dogs

MIDOG interactive dog soccer ball with grab tabs is specially designed for dogs and dog parents. It is made of durable TPU and nylon materials. The interactive dog ball is non-toxic, harmless, bite-resistant, and fun for dogs to play with.

This dog soccer ball toy is lightweight and has high elasticity. It is suitable for interactive play sessions between humans and dogs. This is a great water toy ball for dogs in summer.

MIDOG interactive dog soccer ball maintains a 3.8 -star rating from customers.

Key Features

• Color: black and green
• For medium and small dogs
• Sturdy nylon handle
• Strong nylon grab tabs
• Cotton yarn rubber liner
• Smooth TPU surface
• Good elasticity
• Non-toxic and harmless
• Bite-resistant
• Float in water

Pros

• Buyers have mentioned that the ball is strong and durable. This ball is truly indestructible.
• The brand provides lifetime replacement for their dog ball toys.
• The grab tabs on it make it easy for the dog to grab instead of biting the herding ball every time.
• The ball toy can be used in water and can float.

Cons

• Some buyers have complained that the ball itself is chew-proof, but the tabs on the ball are not.

 

8. TIHOPAR Herding Ball for Dogs

The TIHOPAR herding ball for dogs is tear-resistant and very durable with a rubber-like elasticity. The surface of the herding dog ball is covered with uneven massage points. This allows your dog to massage the nose and mouth area at any time.

The TIHOPAR herding ball for dogs has a soft texture and is made with high-performance EVA material. There is no need to pump as the ball will not deflate or lose shape.

Your dog can play indoors, in the water, and outdoors. The ball will quickly become one of your dog’s favorite interactive dog toys.

Key Features

• Available in two colors, yellow and blue
• Large size but lightweight
• Made of high-performance EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) material
• Tear-resistant
• Float on water, ideal for water play
• Non-toxic
• Unique massage points

Pros

• The best thing about this ball is it will not be punctured to lose shape and become unplayable.
• Dogs love this ball and do not get bored when playing with the ball.
• Reviewers back up claim that the ball is worth every penny.
• Your dog can play with the ball both indoors and outdoor.

Cons

• Some buyers found it not chew-proof and sturdy

 

9. Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball Dog Toy

Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball helps your dog relieve his built-up energy. This indestructible ball will stand up to the toughest dogs. It is ideal for dogs that love chasing, herding, and pushing.

The Push-N- Play ball is ideal for all types of play and floats on the water. For extra fun, you may fill it with water, sand, or gravel.

Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball Dog Toy maintains a 3.5-star rating from customers.

Key Features

• Colors: purple, blue, red
• Comes in 5 sizes
• Material: plastic
• Perfect for chasing, herding, and pushing
• Made in the USA
• You may fill with water, sand, or gravel

Pros

• Some positive reviews state that the jolly ball is great for chasing
• Many buyers reviewed that the ball is pretty tough, heavy, and best used outside.
• Fantastic for a herding dog.
• Provides hours of fun for dogs.

Cons

• Some low reviews stated that the hard plastic doesn’t survive strong jaws.

 

10. Varsity Pets Basketball Design Dog Toy

Varsity Pets Basketball Design Dog Toy is a promising option for destructive chewers, athletic dogs, and energetic dogs. The large indestructible dog ball provides an excellent full-body exercise. This huge herding dog ball is simply indestructible.

Unfortunately, the price is its drawback. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you might want to give Varsity herding dog ball a pass.

Varsity Pets Basketball Design Dog Toy maintains a 3.9-star rating.

Key Features

• Guaranteed Indestructible
• Designed for human-free dog exercise
• Made in the USA
• World’s toughest dog toy
• Used by the country’s toughest working dogs and canine athletes

Pros

• The herding ball comes in a variety of sizes and colors.
• Great toy for high drive dogs.
• Buyers have mentioned that the ball is too big for the dogs to chew up.
• Dogs enjoy herding it in the garden or around the yard.

Cons

• Some buyers have mentioned that the ball is too heavy.
• It is far more expensive than other herding balls in the market.

 

How do I choose a herding ball?

Like all dog devices, herding balls come in many shapes, sizes, and variations. Here are some buying considerations to choose the safest herding ball for your furry friend. You can use a herding ball to help with breeds that are difficult to raise due to their active temperament.

Choosing the right sized ball

Herding dog balls should be appropriate for your dog’s size and breed. Herding balls come in multiple sizes for small, medium, large, and giant breeds. Having the right-sized ball is the first step to ensuring a happy and satisfied dog.

Material

Herding balls are usually from hard plastic, rubber, and felt material. The material used in the herding dog ball should be easy to clean, non-toxic, and easy to dry out.

Additional features

Many herding balls offer extra enrichment, including the ability to float, handles, grab tabs, unique colors, textured surfaces, and might have plugs for air or sand.

Durable

When selecting a herding ball, durability is the most pressing concern. After all, it needs to hold up to some serious chewing and biting. A flimsy and poorly constructed herding ball can break easily and potentially injure your dog’s jaws and teeth.

Despite the different designs and materials, these herding balls have one thing in common: “They all are great for dogs.”

What Breeds Are Herding Dogs?

There are many dogs bred for herding. We are going to name a few dogs from the AKC Herding group:

• Australian Cattle Dog
• Australian Shepherd
• Bearded Collie
• Belgian Laekenois
• Berger Picard
• Border Collie
• Briard
• Canaan Dog
• Belgian Sheepdog
• Corgi
• German Shepherd Dog
• Miniature American Shepherd
• Puli
• Belgian Malinois
• Spanish Water Dog
• And so many more

FAQs in herding ball

What kind of toys do herding dogs like?

Herding breeds are bred to chase, herd, and control livestock. They tend to chase and herd about any object they come across. These intelligent canines soon get bored and destructive if not given any physical and mental stimulation.

The herding breeds can benefit greatly from a herding ball. It provides great physical activity and keeps them entertained for hours.

Do shepherds like herding balls?

German Shepherd is a herding breed that loves playing with a herding ball. The adult German Shepherds usually need a 14-inch herding ball.

Do labs like herding balls?

It’s not just the herding breeds that would benefit from a herding ball. And any smart and energetic breed, like a Labrador Retriever, can enjoy a herding ball so all you need is to train your Labs to herd the ball correctly.

What size herding ball should be?

A good herding ball should be big enough to prevent it from getting in dogs’ mouths. A large ball makes it easier for your fur buddy to push it with different parts of his body. In general, the larger your dog, the larger the herding ball should be. Usually, there is a size guide provided with the herding ball.

Ready to get a herding ball for your furry companion?

All dogs need something to play, chase, push, or chew. So for all these, heading balls would be the best solution like herding balls for dogs are usually available in several sizes so It is important that you get the herding dog ball that is big enough for your dog to avoid chewing it.

Like all new toys, you should introduce dog herding balls to your furry pal under your supervision. If you notice your dog is using the herding ball inappropriately, just train your fur buddy to play with it correctly.

Your beloved dogs deserve only the very best!