The 10 Best Dog Ball Launchers of 2023 (Automatic & Manual) – Reviews & Top Picks

We all know how much dogs love playing fetch but eventually, every dog parent realizes that it can get taxing.

Launching the ball or toy at a great velocity and distance requires a lot of manual effort which can cause pain and discomfort in our arms. Eventually, it may also lead to joint issues and muscle tears if we apply too much force while throwing.

These ball throwing mechanisms either launch the ball manually or automatically, but eventually reduce human efforts while playing with your pet.

If you want to spend quality time with your pup, then our reviews on the best dog ball launchers would definitely help you play an enjoyable game of run and fetch with your pet.

10 Best Dog Ball Launchers Reviews of 2023

1. iFetch Interactive Ball Launchers for Dogs

The iFetch Interactive Ball Launchers for Dogs is one of the best dog ball launchers that let your dog rejoice for hours so he plays to his heart’s content. The ball launcher features a compact and tiny design that makes it easy to carry and operate.

The ball launcher comes with 3 small tennis balls to start with and you can also use other small balls of the same size. The interactive dog ball thrower is a great medium to stimulate your dog’s physical and mental performance.

You can adjust the launch distance to 10, 20, and 30 feet just with a single button and keep your pooch on his toes all day.

It has a large and flat hopper for your dog to refill the machine by himself for unlimited action. There is a hidden compartment for storage so you can place the balls inside.

To conclude, we think this is the overall best dog ball launchers.

Features

• Type: Automatic
• Dimensions: 10.5” x 8” x 7” (L x W x H)
• Size: Small
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

The design is very portable but at the same time, the machine is not very durable. It is battery operated but does not last long upon use.

All in all, the iFetch is suitable for small to medium-sized pets and is suitable for both indoor as well as outdoor use.

2. IDOGMATE Automatic Dog Ball Launcher

The IDOGMATE Automatic Dog Ball Launcher is a premium quality dog ball launcher that is made for dogs of all life stages. It is a perfect ball throwing machine that promises to provide your pooch with some continuous fun and play.

You can adjust the launching distance to 10,20, 30, and 40 feet based on your dog’s activity levels and the machine can be controlled through the remote control or directly through the buttons provided.

The launcher comes with 3 balls and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries which makes the machine portable and easy to move in your garden or backyard.

Once charged, the machine runs for up to 1000 launches. The ball throwing machine also features a large hopper and once you train your pet, he can easily refill the hopper and play with the machine all by himself.

It is a very interactive toy and stimulates your hound physically as well as mentally.

Features

• Type: Automatic
• Dimensions: 8.66” x 8.66” x 8.27” (L x W x H)
• Size: Large
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

The one drawback is that it does not have a motion sensor, and if your dog is standing close to the machine, the ball can launch and injure your pet.

The maximum the machine launches the ball is up to 20 ft. and nothing beyond. It is good for small pups and suitable for indoor use more than outdoor use.

3. Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher

The Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher helps you throw the ball 2-3 times farther to increase the run time of your pet, making it the best dog ball launcher under a budget.

Feel free to use the ball thrower in your backyard, garden or when you go for a picnic with your pooch.

The handle and the launcher are made of lightweight and durable plastic and the handle measures 26 inches in length.

The launcher has been designed such that it offers a hands-free pickup while you don’t have to stress your arm while launching the ball.

It offers a self-pickup design so you don’t have to touch slobbery and dirty balls anymore. The launcher has an easy-grip that locks the ball while picking up and makes launching the ball an effortless task.

You can launch it with immense velocity while watching your dog enjoy and run to fetch.

Features

• Type: Manual
• Dimensions: 2.6” x 3.6” x 28.4” (L x W x H)
• Size: Classic, Medium
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Users claim that the handle does not offer a very comfortable grip and gives a burning sensation while use. Moreover, the ball is not chew proof and can get easily destroyed if your dog is aggressive with it.

All in all, the launcher is a good buy in a budget price to keep your dog active and engaged.

4. PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher

The PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher is the ideal play partner that plays fetch with your pup and is an interactive toy that helps you train and teach your dog.

The launcher shoots the ball at a distance of 8-30 feet and includes 9 settings with 6 setting angles.

The automatic launch toy has multiple safety sensors to keep your dog from injuries if he is around the device. The device also features a 15 minutes rest interval so that your dog is not constantly running and in action and gets adequate rest.

If possible, you can either play along with him or teach him to refill the ball launcher by himself while he happily plays fetch.

You can pull and turn or adjust the distance and angle knob to change the launch settings. It keeps your dog intrigued for a different launch each time.

Features

• Type: Automatic
• Dimensions: 22.75” x 2.5” x 7.5” (L x W x H)
• Size: Large
• Best For: Dogs of all life stages
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

Certain dog parents complain that there is an indefinite wait time after each throw and dogs may start acting impatient.

The launching device is not very durable either and loses strength after a week. However, PetSafe is a very interactive toy to keep your pet engaged and happy.

5. Hyper Pet K9 Kannon Interactive Dog Ball Launcher

Get your shooting and launching instincts into action with the Hyper Pet K9 Kannon Interactive Dog Ball Launcher.

It makes a great source of exercise and fun and is a perfect tool for training your canine. It uses tennis balls and the trigger for launching the ball is very easy to operate.

It has a lever for adjusting the distance and the more you pull the lever back, the farther the ball launches.

The launcher gun comes with one tennis ball and you can load up to 4 balls at a time. The design also allows you to store 2 balls together making it suitable for travel and picnics.

The dog ball launcher has a very comfortable grip and ergonomic design. It helps you to engage in a playful time with your pet and create a good bond with your fido. With the varied launching distances, the toy helps your pet to stay on his toes always.

Features

• Type: Manual
• Dimensions: 22.75” x 2.5” x 7.5” (L x W x H)
• Size: Large
• Best For: Dogs of all life stages
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

One disadvantage would be that you need immense force to pull the launcher and throw the ball at a farther distance. This can cause painful arms.

The overall working mechanism is not very appealing and the ball launcher is good to play with for a few moments of fun time.

6. IDOGMATE Automatic Ball Thrower For Dogs

The IDOGMATE Automatic Ball Thrower for Dogs is the perfect playmate for indoor and outdoor use.

The device is suitable for small and medium-sized pets and the balls are extremely soft to not injure your dog’s teeth. However, the balls are not recommended for aggressive chewers.

It gives you varying launching options from 10, 20, 30, and 35 feet and it is fairly easy to switch between the distances to challenge your dog’s instincts.

The dog ball launcher runs on an AC adapter or can be used with rechargeable Li-Ion batteries that can easily support 250 launches.

The dog ball launcher does not eat up top much electricity and you can train your dog to refill the balls by himself in the launcher all thanks to the large hopper. You do not need to constantly supervise your pooch while he can enjoy playing for hours.

Features

• Type: Automatic
• Dimensions: 7.48” x 7.87” x 6.3” inches (L x W x H)
• Size: Small
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

The launcher is perfect for indoor and outdoor use. However, certain users claim that the dog toy is not durable at all.

The machine does not last long without the power cord and needs to be connected every time you use it. All in all, it is good for providing some short term entertainment and playtime to your pooch.

7. Felix & Fido Playball Automatic Ball Launcher

Simple and user friendly design with cute and compact features, the Felix & Fido Playball Automatic Dog Ball Launcher keeps your pup occupied for a long time.

It is a interactive toy and offers 3 levels of launches that throws the ball at different distances.

The device comes with 3 balls to get started with as well as a charging cord. It does not eat up too much electricity. The balls included are also saliva resistant and dry out pretty easily.

It has 3 different light settings on the device to indicate different launch distances.

The dog ball thrower is suitable for small pups and not meant for large dogs. It can be carried outdoors as it can also be operated through a battery. The dog toy is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Features

• Type: Automatic
• Dimensions: 14.3” x 11” x 10.7” inches (L x W x H)
• Size: Small
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

Certain dog parents complain that the ball gets jammed before launching. The balls that come along are not chew proof and get destroyed easily.

The device also requires constant supervision while your dog plays with it. It is a good investment to indulge your pup in exercise and activity.

8. Paws & Pals Automatic Dog Ball Launcher

The Paws and Pals Automatic Dog Ball Launcher is a compact and tiny device that does great wonders for your pet.

It has 3 different distance adjustable settings being 10 feet, 20 feet, and 30 feet so you can surprise your dog and keep him glued for fun launches.

Paws & Pals is also a great device for treating and training your pet. Each time your fido has a successful fetch, the device treats him and encourages your pup.

It is very easy to use with minimal operations and you don’t have to strain yourself to play with your companion.

The ball launcher is chargeable and is extremely light in weight so you can carry it anywhere you, please. Its compact design makes it easy to store and carry. The ball launcher also includes 3 pet-safe tennis balls along with a charging cord.

Features

• Type: Automatic
• Dimensions: 14.3” x 11” x 10.7” inches (L x W x H)
• Size: Small
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

Certain dog parents claim that the product is not durable and makes a lot of noise. The battery life after charging is not great either.

All in all, it is suitable for short term use and not meant for long hours of playing. It is good for small to medium-sized pets and not for large dogs.

9. Hyper Pet Dog Ball Launcher

If you and your hound enjoy playing fetch, then the Hyper Pet Dog Ball Launcher is sure to add to the fun. The setup allows you to shoot the ball as far as 200 feet easily and requires no setup or assembly.

The toy is suitable for dogs of all life stages and sizes and allows you a hands-free pick up to avoid coming in contact with slobbery balls.

The frame and the body of the launcher are made of high-quality stainless steel that is rust and corrosion-proof.

There are 2 variants available for the product, a single ball launcher, and a 4 ball launcher. The high distance launch makes sure that your pup runs for longer distances and gets adequate exercise. This helps keep your dog active and agile.

Features

• Type: Manual
• Dimensions: 15” x 8.5” x 13.5” inches (L x W x H)
• Size: Large
• Best For: Dogs of all life stages
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

The launcher has a collapsible construction which allows you to store it easily or carry it during picnics and outings with your pet.

However, certain users claim that the launch velocity and distance is not great. It requires immense force to throw the ball which can be taxing.

10. Outward Hound Kyjen Tennis Ball Launcher for Dogs

The Outward Outward Hound Kyjen Tennis Ball Launcher for Dogs is ergonomically designed in such a way that it allows for an easy, slobber free pickup without bending or touching the ball.

It has a gravity lock system which easily allows you to grip the ball for the next launch.

The Flik-It mechanism that it uses adds 50% more velocity to throwing so that the ball travels farther. This encourages your dog to run and fetch instilling exercise and obedience in them.

The grip handle is quite long and comfortable and you can use standard-sized tennis balls for playing.

The entire dog toy comes with the launcher and one tennis ball to get started with. The dog ball thrower has been designed such that it reduces the strain on your arms while throwing.

Features

• Type: Manual
• Dimensions: 23” x 2.7” x 2.7” inches (L x W x H)
• Size: Small
• Best For: Small and Medium Dogs
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and Outdoor

Certain users claim that the design is not very user friendly and the product is not very durable. However, it makes for a great past time with your pet at your backyard or picnics with your fur mate.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Ball Launcher?

Here are the steps you must consider in order to choose the best dog ball launcher:

Automatic vs. Manual

Dog Ball Launcher is generally of two types, automatic and manual.

While automatic ones need a power supply and launch the ball at different angles and different directions, manual launchers require human force and come with ergonomically designed long handles better grip while launching.

Talks about which one is better, automatic launcher provides the convenience of throwing the ball at regular intervals whereas manual may require efforts.

Automatic dog ball throwers are very highly-priced as compared to their manual counterparts but are capable of keeping your dog entertained for hours.

Launch Angle and Distance

Launch Angle and distance are very important especially if you have multiple pets at home.

All of them would get multiple ball launches at the same time which can be projected at different angles and directions to make them run and fetch the ball in different directions.

This makes them more sharp and agile as well as trains them to follow directions, obey orders, and indulge in more exercise and activity.

Once your dog is used to traveling at a particular distance and a particular direction you can challenge him by launching the ball in different directions.

Ball and Launcher Size

Before getting an appropriate ball launcher, check the size of the ball that fits into the launcher and is equally convenient for your canine to hold and use.

If your pooch is too tiny, then a big sized ball and launcher would be a total waste.

At the same time, if your canine is large in size and age, then a small ball can get easily destroyed within a few minutes, and using a small launcher is totally futile.

Moreover, small balls have chances of getting misplaced easily, and dogs are very particular about their toys.

When it comes to choosing the appropriate size of the launcher, opt for something which is compact and convenient to handle and not something that is bulky.

However, if the launcher has a permanent place in your house or backyard, then it is worth investing in a big launcher for multiple pets at home.

Safety Sensor

There are tendencies that your dog ball launcher may cause an accident to your pet while in action. Therefore, in order to avoid injuries, look for a dog ball with a built-in safety sensor.

This feature causes the ball to halt or stop from being launched if your canine is in the way of the launcher.

Remote Controlled

If you want to keep your fido on the toes all the time and keep him intrigued before the ball launches in a particular direction, then the remote control adds more thrill to the game.

You can decide the angle of the ball launch or even adjust the force and direction of the ball throw to challenge your pup and stimulate him mentally each time.

Indoor and Outdoor Use

If your canine loves hopping around indoors, then getting a small launcher with less launching force is advisable. However, if you take your dog outdoors to play and exercise, then investing in a big ball launching machine is worth it.

Power Source

Automated dog ball launchers can be battery operated or use an AC current source. They do not consume much electricity but are not portable.

So unless you don’t have a socket connection in your garden, a battery-operated ball launcher is a better choice. However, you may have to spend extra on batteries and electricity bills which makes manual launcher a one time and cheaper investment.

Multi-Pet Use

A ball launcher that has multiple ball throwing options is a good investment for multiple dogs in your house.

This avoids conflicts between multiple dogs and each pet gets to fetch and catch his own ball. This also helps to keep your pets busy for long hours.

Easy to Clean

The balls may get soggy and dirty each time your pet gets his jaws over it to grab while playing. Moreover, the balls are bound to get dirty due to muddy water, soil particles, etc.

This can make the entire machine dirty and unhygienic for use. Hence it is advisable to look for a setup that is easy to clean so the launcher remains clean and lasts for years.

What is a Dog Ball Launcher?

A dog ball launcher is a manual or automated device that allows pet parents to launch balls so that dogs can play fetch and have enjoyable playtime.

These machines automatically keep launching balls to keep your dog engaged or can be used manually do launch the ball at a great distance for your dog to run and fetch it.

This encourages them to exercise, remain agile, learn to obey orders, and keeps them occupied for hours of playtime.

Moreover, you do not have to take the troubles of running around with your pooch each time you both are out to play and enjoy. The dog ball thrower does the job of keeping your dog occupied while you can chill and enjoy watching him play.

Types of Dog Ball Launchers

Dog Ball Launchers are available in 2 types: Manual and Automatic.

Manual

Manual dog ball throwers possess a simple design that comes with a long handle and a string attached at the other end of the handle to throw the ball at a distance.

Once you whip the launcher, the ball or ring attached at the end gets thrown at a far away distance so your dog can run and fetch it.

These manual launchers come with a very thoughtful design which helps in easy pickup and throw so you don’t have to keep running with your dog and at the same time, fetch the ball easily without bending or touching it.

Manual dog ball throwers can be stored easily once your doggy is done with playtime and are very easy to carry during picnics and outings as well.

Automatic

Automatic ball throwing machines are like ball pitching machines that automatically launches the ball to get your dog into action.

Each time you start the machine, it automatically starts launching balls at a suitable angle and distance so that your dog can run and fetch it.

Automatic dog ball launchers are capable of throwing the ball with a greater force, at a greater distance that manual throwers cannot do.

Moreover, manual throwers require to apply immense force to throw the ball at a farther distance. Therefore, automatic ball launchers make the task easy for you.

Dog ball throwers can also be classified into further two types: Single and Multiple Ball Launchers.

Single Ball Launcher

Single automatic dog ball launchers have a single slot for storing the ball and shoots the ball at varying distances each time it is refilled with a ball.

For which, you have to either keep refilling the machine each time your dog fetches the ball or teach and train your ball to fetch the ball and place it in the launch basket for the next launch.

If you have trained your dog to refill the launcher basket, you can keep him engaged for hours in your absence else you may have to remain present around him in order to refill the slot for launching.

Multiple Ball Launcher

Multiple ball launcher will not necessarily require any refilling or supervision as it has a tank that stores a certain number of balls and launches them at regular intervals.

You will not need to train your dog how to refill it and it comes with a big ball tank to keep launching and throw continuously for hours of fun.

However, when the number of balls has run out in the tank, it will require refilling, and sooner or later you may have to train your pooch for the same.

FAQs

Do dog ball launchers require special balls?

No! Most dog ball launchers work with a tennis ball-sized regular ball. There are a few machines that use proprietary balls or may require balls of a suitable size.

How far do automatic dog ball launchers throw the ball?

Dog ball launchers can throw the ball at a distance of 10-50 feet and comes with adjustable settings based on your dog’s age and habits.

If you want to keep them wondering and searching for the ball each time, then you can throw the ball at variable speed and distance.

Do I need to supervise while my dog plays with the ball launcher?

Yes! It is always recommended to keep your dog under supervision each time they play with any toy. However, it is not necessary that you remain around them always and can only keep a watch on them at regular intervals from a distance while they play.

Can I use tennis balls for regular dog ball launchers?

Yes! However, this depends upon the individual machine as some of them work with regular tennis balls whereas a few machines don’t. Most of the dog ball launcher machines work with any type of balls that is the size of a tennis ball.

How much for dog ball launchers?

Dog ball launchers can cost anywhere between $10 to $200. However, if you are looking for a budget dog ball launcher, then you must opt for the Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher costs anywhere between $9-$10.

For a premium quality dog ball launcher, you must opt for the IDOGMATE Automatic Dog Ball Launcher that costs around $180-$200.

The overall best dog ball launcher which is small and compact as well as budget-friendly is the iFetch Interactive Ball Launchers for Dogs that costs around $130-$140.

What is the best dog ball launcher?

According to us, the best dog ball launcher is the iFetch Interactive Ball Launchers for Dogs which has a very compact and portable design suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

A premium quality dog ball launcher which is a fun and interactive dog toy would be the IDOGMATE Automatic Dog Ball Launcher which comes with a remote control but is quite highly-priced.

For a budget purchase, you can opt for a manual dog ball launcher which is the Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher that provides extreme velocity for your dog to run and fetch.

Final Note

Dog ball launchers and throwers are a great way to keep your canine engaged and occupied. Dog ball throwers are available in various types that launch single or multiple balls and are automatic or manual.

Manual ball throwers usually come with a spring or lever to launch the ball at a high velocity while automatic machines keep launching balls at regular intervals at a preset angle and velocity.

Dog ball launchers are a great way to stimulate your dog mentally as well as physically and are a great investment for your dog’s overall health and well being.

Our reviews on the best dog ball launchers help you choose the best toy to keep your canine active and agile.