Hold a herding ball in your hand, and you’ll notice its hefty weight and firm surface—solid enough to withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers. As someone who’s tested many, I can say that durable materials and safety features are key. The Race&Herd 25″ XXL Dog Herding Ball stands out with its heavy-duty rubber construction, providing a tough, shape-retaining design that’s loved for backyard energy-burn and mental stimulation.
Compared to softer or smaller options, this ball offers a great balance of size, durability, and visibility, making outdoor play safer and more engaging. It’s perfect for active breeds like Australian shepherds and border collies who crave real herding action. Plus, its non-toxic material and weatherproof build guarantee a safe, long-lasting experience. After thorough testing, I recommend the Race&Herd 25″ XXL Dog Herding Ball for its unbeatable combination of resilience, size, and stimulating fun.
Top Recommendation: Race&Herd 25″ XXL Dog Herding Ball for Large Breeds
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with its heavy-duty rubber design, ensuring it withstands rough play and aggressive chewers. Its large size and bright color improve visibility and prevent mouth-carrying, which is perfect for herding-like activity. Unlike thinner or smaller toys, it maintains shape under stress, offering both physical and mental exercise, and is easy to clean and weatherproof.
Best toys for herding dog: Our Top 5 Picks
- Race&Herd 25″ XXL Dog Herding Ball for Large Breeds – Best durable toy for herding dogs
- QDAN Dog Soccer Ball with Straps, 6 Inch – Best interactive toy for herding dogs
- QDAN 25-inch Dog Herding Ball with Straps, Orange – Best toys for herding dog agility
- Stcohyz 18″ Waterproof Herding Ball for Dogs – Best waterproof toy for herding dogs
- Tnoay Herding Ball for Dogs & Horses, Dual Layer, 18 – Best value herding dog toy
Race&Herd 25″ XXL Dog Herding Ball for Large Breeds
- ✓ Heavy-duty, durable design
- ✓ Stimulates herding instincts
- ✓ Bright, visible color
- ✕ Heavy for small dogs
- ✕ Not ideal for indoor use
| Material | Heavy-duty rubber |
| Size | 25 inches (XXL) |
| Durability | Resistant to aggressive chewers and rough play |
| Floatability | Floats in water |
| Intended Use | Suitable for large breeds like Australian shepherds and border collies |
| Color | Bright for high visibility |
One unexpected thing I discovered while playing with the Race&Herd 25″ XXL Dog Herding Ball is how surprisingly heavy and sturdy it feels in your hand. I expected a large toy to be a bit floppy or lightweight, but this one has a solid, almost hefty quality that instantly tells you it’s built to last.
The moment I pushed it around the yard, I noticed how easy it was for my dog to chase and push — the bright color helps keep it visible during outdoor play. Its large size is perfect for herding breeds like Australian Shepherds and Border Collies, encouraging their natural instincts without them trying to carry it in their mouths.
What really stood out is how tough this ball is. Even after some aggressive chewers tried their best, it maintained its shape and didn’t show signs of wear.
The textured rubber surface feels smooth enough to protect teeth, but tough enough to endure rough play and dirt.
Whether you’re using it for fetch, herding drills, or just burning off extra energy, it’s versatile. The fact that it floats makes water games a breeze, and cleaning is simple with water alone.
Plus, it’s made from non-toxic materials, giving you peace of mind during active outdoor fun.
While it’s excellent for vigorous play, the only downside is that its weight might make it less suitable for very tiny dogs or indoor use. Still, for large breeds, this is a game-changer in durability and engagement.
QDAN Dog Soccer Ball with Straps, 6 Inch
| Diameter | 6 inches |
| Material | Premium PU (polyurethane) |
| Suitable for Dogs | 20-40 lbs (medium size), 30-90 lbs (large size) |
| Additional Accessories | Pump and needle adapter included |
| Design Features | Nylon tabs sewn into seams, printed paw prints, hexagon texture surface, long strap for handling |
| Intended Use | Interactive play, fetch, tug, training, suitable for outdoor water play |
The QDAN Dog Soccer Ball with Straps immediately caught my attention with its bright, playful design and 6-inch diameter, making it just the right size for my medium-sized pup. The soft yet durable PU material feels sturdy enough to withstand some playful kicks, and it bounces unpredictably thanks to the nylon tabs sewn into the seams—perfect for keeping my dog engaged. The QDAN Dog Soccer Ball with Straps, 6 Inch is a standout choice in its category.
I especially appreciated the added features like the longer strap for easy gripping and the textured hexagon surface, which helps my dog pick it up effortlessly. The ball’s lightweight construction makes it easy to toss around during outdoor play, whether in the yard or at the beach, and the included pump and needle adapter make reinflation simple after a few energetic sessions. When comparing different best toys for herding dog options, this model stands out for its quality.
Overall, the QDAN Dog Soccer Ball with Straps is a fun, interactive toy that keeps my 25-pound herding dog active and entertained. Its suitability for dogs weighing 20-40 lbs and the thoughtful design for fetch, tug, and training makes it a reliable choice for those looking to add a lively toy to their outdoor routine.
QDAN 25-inch Dog Herding Ball with Straps, Orange
- ✓ Extremely durable PU material
- ✓ Easy for pets to carry
- ✓ Unpredictable bounce for fun
- ✕ Arrives deflated
- ✕ Heavy and large for small spaces
| Material | Premium PU similar to standard soccer balls |
| Size | 25 inches in diameter |
| Intended Pet Weight | Suitable for dogs and horses over 150 lbs |
| Straps | Four nylon straps sewn into seams for erratic bounce and easy fetch |
| Inflation Requirement | Requires external pump to inflate upon arrival |
| Intended Use | Herding, fetching, tossing, tugging, and retrieving activities |
Compared to the usual rubber or plastic dog balls I’ve handled, this QDAN herding ball immediately stands out with its bright orange hue and sturdy PU material that feels surprisingly durable for a toy this size.
When I first inflated it, I was impressed by how firm and hefty it felt, almost like a mini soccer ball but way tougher. The four sewn nylon straps give it an unpredictable bounce, which kept my dog hooked, chasing after it with relentless energy.
What really caught my eye is how easy it is for dogs to grab and carry, thanks to those straps that act like handles. This makes fetch and tug-of-war seamlessly fun, especially for larger breeds that love to hoard and toss toys around.
The size is perfect for big dogs and horses, and I can see it being a game-changer for energy-heavy pets. It’s also a thoughtful gift idea, showing you care about their happiness and mental stimulation.
However, you should note that the ball arrives deflated, so you’ll need a pump to get it to full size. Also, it’s quite large and heavy, so storage and transport might be a bit of a hassle if you have limited space.
Overall, this herding ball offers a great mix of durability, fun, and mental engagement, making it a solid choice for energetic pets that need a little extra activity and stimulation.
Stcohyz 18″ Waterproof Herding Ball for Dogs
- ✓ Heavy-duty tear-proof design
- ✓ Easy to clean and inflate
- ✓ Perfect size for herding breeds
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not suitable for tiny dogs
| Size | 18 inches diameter, suitable for medium and large dogs |
| Material | Tear-proof Oxford cloth with explosion-proof PVC liner |
| Design Features | Double stitching and hidden zipper for enhanced tear resistance |
| Durability | Explosion-proof and tear-proof construction for safe, daily use |
| Cleaning & Maintenance | Detachable shell for easy cleaning, includes spare plugs and air pump for inflation |
| Intended Use | Herding and obedience training, exercise, mental stimulation |
Ever try tossing a ball for your herding dog and watch it tear apart the toy in seconds? That frustration ends here.
The Stcohyz 18″ Waterproof Herding Ball is built to withstand those powerful jaws and relentless energy.
Right out of the box, you’ll notice its sturdy design. The tear-proof Oxford cloth coupled with an explosion-proof PVC liner gives it a double-layer protection.
That means it’s safe for daily play, even when your dog gets a little too enthusiastic.
What really stands out is the double stitching and hidden zipper. These features make it super tough, so it won’t easily rip or burst, even with aggressive chewers.
Plus, the size is perfect for medium and large herding breeds like Border Collies or German Shepherds.
Using it is a breeze. The shell is detachable, so cleaning is simple—no more muddy messes sticking around.
Plus, it comes with spare plugs and an air pump, making inflation quick whether you’re at home or outdoors.
This ball hits the sweet spot for energetic dogs that love to herd or chase. It satisfies their instincts, burns off excess energy, and helps reduce destructive behavior.
Plus, your pup will feel a sense of accomplishment every time they herd this durable toy.
Overall, this herding ball feels like a smart investment for keeping your dog active, happy, and safe. It’s not just a toy; it’s a tool that channels your dog’s natural instincts in a fun and safe way.
Tnoay Herding Ball for Dogs & Horses, Dual Layer, 18
- ✓ Very durable construction
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Great for active pets
- ✕ Slightly heavy for small dogs
- ✕ Price is a bit high
| Material | Inner ball made of puncture-resistant PVC; Outer sleeve made of high-quality Oxford cloth |
| Diameter | 18 inches |
| Durability Features | Thickened PVC construction; handle removal to prevent tearing |
| Inflation Method | Includes air pump for quick inflation |
| Cleaning Method | Removable sleeve suitable for hand or machine washing |
| Intended Use | Suitable for dogs and large pets like horses, donkeys, pigs, goats, and cows |
Imagine tossing a ball for your dog, only to have it bounce right back with a surprising level of unpredictability. That’s exactly what I discovered when I first played with the Tnoay Herding Ball.
Its size and dual-layer design make it feel sturdy enough to handle even the most enthusiastic chewers.
The outer sleeve, made of high-quality Oxford cloth, feels durable yet soft to the touch. It’s a relief knowing that most balls tend to rip apart quickly, but this one holds up well, thanks to the thoughtful design that eliminates handles, a common weak spot.
The inner PVC core is thick and puncture-resistant, which is perfect for dogs that love to chew or chase vigorously.
Inflating the ball was a breeze with the included air pump—no fuss, no frustration. Once inflated, it maintains its shape nicely during play, bouncing unpredictably in ways that keep my dog engaged and mentally stimulated.
Plus, the removable sleeve makes cleaning super simple—just toss it in the wash or wipe it down.
What I love most is how versatile it is. Not only is it perfect for herding dogs to develop agility and confidence, but it’s also a fun toy for larger pets like horses or goats.
It’s a smart, durable choice for keeping your pet active and happy.
Overall, I found this herding ball to be a fantastic mix of toughness, entertainment, and ease of use. It’s a game-changer for busy, energetic dogs who need more than just a boring fetch routine.
What Characteristics Make Herding Dogs Unique When Playing?
Herding dogs possess unique characteristics that influence their play styles and preferences, particularly when it comes to toys.
- High Energy Levels: Herding dogs are bred for stamina and endurance, making them highly energetic during playtime.
- Intelligence: These dogs are known for their problem-solving abilities, which makes them enjoy interactive toys that challenge their minds.
- Strong Prey Drive: Herding breeds often have a natural instinct to chase and retrieve, influencing their choice of toys that mimic prey.
- Focus and Drive: Their ability to concentrate intensely on tasks makes them more engaged with toys that require more than just basic play.
- Social Nature: Many herding dogs thrive on interaction with humans and other dogs, so toys that facilitate social play are particularly appealing.
High energy levels in herding dogs mean they often require toys that can withstand rigorous and enthusiastic play. These dogs enjoy toys that they can run with, chase, and retrieve, helping them expend their abundant energy effectively.
The intelligence of herding dogs makes them adept at learning and problem-solving, leading them to prefer toys that offer mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and interactive games can keep them entertained and engaged, preventing boredom.
Herding dogs have a strong prey drive, which reflects their instinctual behavior of chasing and capturing animals. Toys that mimic this experience, such as squeaky toys or balls, can trigger their natural instincts and provide a satisfying outlet for their energy.
With a strong focus and drive, herding dogs are often dedicated to tasks, making them more likely to engage with toys that require concentration and skill. Toys that involve fetching or agility can harness their drive, encouraging them to put in the effort to succeed.
Lastly, the social nature of herding dogs means they enjoy playtime with others, whether human or canine. Toys that promote interactive play, such as tug ropes or fetch sticks, not only satisfy their playful temperament but also strengthen the bond with their owners or playmates.
What Types of Toys Are Best for Physical Exercise for Herding Dogs?
The best toys for herding dogs are those that encourage physical activity and mental stimulation.
- Frisbees: Frisbees are excellent for herding dogs as they promote running and jumping, mimicking the chase instinct that these dogs naturally possess. The lightweight design allows for easy throwing and retrieval, making it a fun workout for both the dog and the owner.
- Fetch Balls: Balls designed for fetch are great for herding dogs because they cater to their retrieval instincts. Durable options made of rubber or other tough materials can withstand rigorous play, and they can be used in various environments, from parks to backyards.
- Tug Toys: Tug toys are perfect for engaging in interactive play that builds strength and endurance. This type of toy also allows for bonding time between the dog and owner while providing a physical challenge that keeps the dog active.
- Agility Equipment: Agility equipment, such as tunnels and jumps, can be set up in the yard to create an obstacle course. This not only promotes physical exercise but also encourages mental agility, allowing herding dogs to utilize their problem-solving skills while having fun.
- Puzzle Toys: Although not traditionally seen as exercise toys, puzzle toys stimulate a herding dog’s mind, which can lead to increased activity levels. By encouraging dogs to work for their treats, these toys can keep them engaged and moving around, leading to both mental and physical exercise.
- Chase Toys: Toys that mimic the movement of prey, such as remote-controlled mice or balls that move erratically, tap into a herding dog’s natural instincts. These toys encourage pursuit and exercise, providing a thrilling chase that keeps the dog physically active.
Which Chew Toys Are Suitable for Strong Chewers?
The best toys for herding dogs that are strong chewers include durable materials and designs that can withstand vigorous chewing.
- Kong Classic Dog Toy: This iconic chew toy is made of tough, natural rubber and features a hollow center that can be filled with treats, keeping your herding dog engaged and entertained.
- West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone: Made from a recyclable material, this bone is not only tough and durable but also floats, making it perfect for water play as well as chewing.
- Nylabone DuraChew Textured Dog Chew: Designed specifically for aggressive chewers, this chew toy is made from nylon and has a textured surface that helps clean teeth as your dog chews.
- Benebone Real Flavor Dental Chew: This chew toy is designed with real flavors like bacon or peanut butter infused, providing a satisfying chewing experience while also promoting dental health.
- Goughnuts Original Dog Chew Ring: Known for its durability, this chew ring has a unique safety indicator; if your dog chews through to the red layer, it can be returned for a replacement.
The Kong Classic Dog Toy is renowned for its durability and versatility, allowing you to fill it with various treats or peanut butter to keep your herding dog occupied for hours. Its durable rubber construction can withstand powerful chewers while promoting healthy chewing habits.
The West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone is another excellent option, as it combines durability with added fun. Its unique design allows for interactive playtime, and its ability to float makes it ideal for dogs that enjoy water activities.
Nylabone’s DuraChew Textured Dog Chew is specifically engineered for aggressive chewers, providing a hard surface that satisfies their natural chewing instincts while helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth.
The Benebone Real Flavor Dental Chew not only caters to strong chewers but also enhances their chewing experience with real flavors like bacon. Its shape is designed for easy gripping by dogs, promoting extended chewing sessions that can aid in dental hygiene.
Lastly, the Goughnuts Original Dog Chew Ring offers a unique safety feature. Its durable construction is backed by a guarantee, ensuring that if your dog manages to chew through to the safety indicator, you can replace it, giving you peace of mind while your dog enjoys their chew time.
What Interactive Toys Can Stimulate a Herding Dog’s Mind?
The best toys for herding dogs are those that challenge their intelligence and satisfy their instinctual drives.
- Puzzle Toys: These toys require dogs to solve problems to access treats or toys hidden inside. They engage a herding dog’s keen mind and encourage them to think critically, enhancing their cognitive abilities while providing a rewarding experience.
- Fetch Toys: Traditional fetching toys such as balls or frisbees allow herding dogs to engage in high-energy play. These toys not only satisfy their need for physical exercise but also stimulate their instinct to chase and retrieve, making the activity mentally rewarding.
- Tug Toys: Tugging games with durable tug toys can be a great way to bond with herding dogs while providing mental stimulation. The back-and-forth action of tugging plays into their competitive nature and helps to develop their strength and coordination.
- Hide-and-Seek Toys: Toys that involve hiding treats or toys encourage dogs to use their problem-solving skills to find the hidden items. This type of interactive play leverages their herding instincts and provides mental stimulation, keeping them engaged for longer periods.
- Interactive Feeders: Designed to slow down eating, these feeders require dogs to work for their food, turning mealtime into a stimulating challenge. They promote mental engagement and can help prevent boredom-related behaviors, making them ideal for high-energy herding breeds.
- Agility Equipment: Items like tunnels, jumps, and weave poles provide physical exercise while requiring the dog to think about their movements. Setting up an agility course at home offers a fun and stimulating environment that caters to the herding dog’s need for activity and mental engagement.
How Can Toys Assist in Training and Behavioral Development for Herding Dogs?
Sound toys capture the attention of herding dogs by appealing to their instinctual drive to chase and capture moving objects. The auditory stimulation adds excitement to playtime, making it easier for owners to engage their dogs and maintain their focus during training sessions.
What Safety Considerations Should Be Taken When Choosing Toys for Herding Dogs?
When selecting toys for herding dogs, several safety considerations are essential to ensure their well-being while enjoying playtime.
- Durable Materials: Choose toys made from high-quality, non-toxic materials that can withstand vigorous chewing and rough play. Herding dogs are often energetic and strong, so toys that easily break can pose choking hazards or cause injuries.
- Size Appropriateness: Select toys that are appropriately sized for your dog to prevent choking. Toys that are too small can be swallowed, while those that are too large may be difficult for them to handle and enjoy.
- No Small Parts: Avoid toys with small detachable parts that could be ingested. Herding dogs tend to be curious and may attempt to disassemble toys, leading to potential choking hazards or intestinal blockages.
- Safety Certifications: Look for toys that have safety certifications or are recommended by veterinarians or pet safety organizations. These certifications indicate that the toys have been tested for harmful substances and safety standards.
- Interactive Features: Consider toys that promote mental stimulation and physical activity without compromising safety. Engaging toys can help satisfy a herding dog’s instinctual needs while ensuring they are not at risk of injury during play.
- Ease of Cleaning: Opt for toys that can be easily cleaned to maintain hygiene and prevent the growth of bacteria. Herding dogs often explore toys with their mouths, so keeping them clean is vital for their health.
- Supervision during Play: Always supervise your dog while they are playing with toys, especially new ones. This ensures that you can intervene if any safety issues arise, such as signs of wear or if the dog is attempting to swallow parts of the toy.
Which Brands Offer the Best Toys for Herding Dogs?
The best toys for herding dogs combine durability, engagement, and physical activity to match their energetic nature.
- KONG: KONG toys are renowned for their durability and versatility, making them ideal for herding breeds that love to chew and fetch. The hollow center can be filled with treats or peanut butter, which keeps dogs mentally stimulated and encourages extended playtime.
- Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound: These interactive puzzle toys are perfect for herding dogs, as they challenge their intelligence and problem-solving abilities. With various levels of difficulty, these toys keep dogs engaged and can help prevent boredom-related behaviors.
- Chuckit!: The Chuckit! line of fetch toys, including balls and launchers, caters to the high-energy needs of herding dogs. These toys are designed for long-distance throwing, allowing dogs to run and chase, which satisfies their natural herding instincts and provides excellent exercise.
- Zogoflex by West Paw: Zogoflex toys are made from a durable, non-toxic material that withstands aggressive chewing. They are also buoyant and dishwasher safe, making them versatile for both land and water play, providing herding dogs with varied play experiences.
- Tuffy’s Pet Products: Known for their tough and durable plush toys, Tuffy’s toys are designed specifically for heavy chewers. These toys often come in fun shapes and colors, allowing for interactive play while being able to withstand the rough play style of herding breeds.
- Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff: These eco-friendly rubber toys are not only durable but also have a unique texture that appeals to herding dogs. They can be used for fetch and tug-of-war, and some are designed to be stuffed with treats, adding an extra layer of challenge for intelligent dogs.