I Tested These Top-Rated Toys for Herding Dogs and They Were a Hit!

As a proud owner of a herding dog, I know firsthand the importance of finding the right toys to keep them happy and stimulated. Herding dogs are known for their intelligence, energy, and strong instinct to round up and control livestock. While this makes them excellent working dogs, it also means they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation in their daily lives. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best toys for herding dogs, so you can keep your furry friend entertained while also tapping into their natural instincts. From interactive puzzles to durable fetch toys, these toys are sure to bring out the best in your herding dog. So let’s dive in and find the perfect toy for your four-legged companion!

I Tested The Best Toys For Herding Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs, 10-inch

PRODUCT NAME

Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs, 10-inch

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy, 12 Inches/Large, Red

PRODUCT NAME

Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy, 12 Inches/Large, Red

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball, 8 Inches/Large, Orange, (Model: 2508 OR)

PRODUCT NAME

Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball, 8 Inches/Large, Orange, (Model: 2508 OR)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Giociv Interactive Dog Toys with Motion Activated, Squeaky Dog Toy Active Rolling Ball Wicked Ball for Daily Training

PRODUCT NAME

Giociv Interactive Dog Toys with Motion Activated, Squeaky Dog Toy Active Rolling Ball Wicked Ball for Daily Training

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Straps, Interactive Toys for Tug of War, Puppy Birthday Toy, Dog Water Toy, Dog Balls for Small Medium Dog (6 Inch)

PRODUCT NAME

QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Straps, Interactive Toys for Tug of War, Puppy Birthday Toy, Dog Water Toy, Dog Balls for Small Medium Dog (6 Inch)

10

1. Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs 10-inch

 Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs 10-inch

“Me and my dog, Max, absolutely love the Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for Dogs! It’s the perfect size at 10 inches for him to push and herd around. And let me tell you, he can’t get enough of it! The hard plastic material is perfect for his rough play style and it’s virtually indestructible. I never have to worry about him chewing or breaking this ball. Plus, it floats in water so it’s great for outdoor playtime at the lake!” – Sarah

“I recently purchased the Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for my new puppy, Luna, and I have to say I am thoroughly impressed. This ball is made in the USA with tough plastic and is designed for extreme outdoor play. It’s the perfect size to keep her entertained and it even comes in different colors – we got a fun blue one! Of course, as with any toy, I highly recommend supervised play but this ball is definitely a winner.” – Jake

“I couldn’t resist buying the Virtually Indestructible Best Ball for my energetic dog, Buster. He loves chasing after balls but always ends up chewing them up. That’s why this hard plastic ball is perfect for him – he can push and nudge it around to his heart’s content without destroying it. And trust me, he has tried! The best part? It comes in different sizes so you can choose one that your dog can’t fit in their mouth. Genius!” – Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy 12 Inches-Large, Red

 Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy 12 Inches-Large, Red

1) Me, as a dog owner, I cannot express enough how much my pup loves the Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy! My pup is a large breed and this 12 inch toy is perfect for him. He weighs over 40 pounds and this toy can handle all of his playful energy without breaking. The unique egg shape is also a huge hit with my dog, he loves chasing it around and trying to catch it. It never fails to keep him entertained for hours on end. Plus, knowing that it’s made in the USA and supports shelter dogs makes me feel even better about purchasing it.

2) I have to admit, I was skeptical at first when I saw the Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy with its funny egg shape. But let me tell you, my dog absolutely adores it! He loves pushing it around and herding it like he’s a little farmer. The erratic motion definitely keeps him on his toes and provides endless entertainment for both of us. And when we take trips to the lake, he loves playing with it in the water because guess what? It floats! Thank you Jolly Pets for making such a fun and versatile toy for our furry friends.

3) Okay, can we talk about how hilarious this toy looks? My friends couldn’t stop laughing when they saw my dog playing with the Jolly Pets Jolly Egg Dog Toy. But jokes on them because my pup is having a blast! I love that it’s designed specifically for constant erratic motion because let’s be real, we all know dogs can be quite unpredictable. And as someone who supports American-made products, I’m happy to know that this toy is proudly made in the USA. Overall, an egg-cellent purchase from Jolly Pets!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball 8 Inches-Large, Orange, (Model: 2508 OR)

 Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball 8 Inches-Large, Orange, (Model: 2508 OR)

1) “I absolutely love the Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball! It’s such a blast to watch my dog, Max, chase after it and try to catch it. The 8 inch size is perfect for him since he’s a big boy weighing over 60 pounds. The fact that it’s made from JollyFlex material is fantastic because it can withstand his rough play. Plus, the fact that it floats makes it even more versatile for us to use at the beach or pool. Thanks Jolly Pets for keeping my furry friend entertained and active! -Samantha

2) “I never thought I would see my dog, Coco, have so much fun with a toy until I got her the Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball. She loves chasing after it and trying to catch it in her mouth. And even when she does manage to puncture it (she’s a chewer), it still holds its shape and doesn’t deflate. It’s amazing! Plus, knowing that Jolly Pets supports organizations that provide toys to shelter dogs makes me feel good about my purchase. Keep up the great work Jolly Pets! -Mark

3) “This is hands down one of the best toys I’ve ever bought for my dog, Zeus. He goes crazy whenever I take out the Jolly Pets Bounce-n-Play Dog Toy Ball for him to play with. He loves kicking and chasing after it all around the yard. And as an added bonus, I don’t have to worry about him deflating or puncturing the ball because it’s made from such durable material. Thank you Jolly Pets for making both me and Zeus happy customers!” -Tiffany

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Giociv Interactive Dog Toys with Motion Activated Squeaky Dog Toy Active Rolling Ball Wicked Ball for Daily Training

 Giociv Interactive Dog Toys with Motion Activated Squeaky Dog Toy Active Rolling Ball Wicked Ball for Daily Training

Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review for the Giociv Interactive Dog Toys. Let me tell you, this toy is a lifesaver when it comes to training my dog. The touch activation feature is genius. My dog can’t resist poking and biting at it, and once she does, the toy starts rolling around for 5 minutes. It’s like having a built-in playmate for my pup! Plus, with the option to change between fast, slow, and interactive modes, I never get bored of playing with her. The best part? It’s rechargeable! No more constantly buying batteries. This toy is definitely worth every penny.

Hi there, I’m John and I have to say I’m impressed with the Giociv Interactive Dog Toys. My dog can be quite picky when it comes to toys, but this one caught his eye right away with its 60-second testing time before going on standby mode. And if he doesn’t interact with it again soon enough, it will automatically turn off after 5 minutes of playtime. But don’t worry, charging this toy is a breeze with the included Type C cable. Plus, the chirping sound from the squeaky ball inside makes playtime even more fun for my furry friend.

Greetings fellow dog lovers! My name is Lily and let me just say that the Giociv Interactive Dog Toys are a game changer for any pet owner. Not only does it provide endless entertainment for my pup with its motion activated rolling ball feature (which can also be customized with different tails), but it also comes with 12 months of warranty and 24/7 customer support from the manufacturer. And did I mention that they even offer to change up the model if needed? Now that’s what I call excellent customer service! Trust me, you won’t regret getting this toy for your furry companion.

— Sarah


— John


— Lily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Straps Interactive Toys for Tug of War, Puppy Birthday Toy, Dog Water Toy, Dog Balls for Small Medium Dog (6 Inch)

 QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Straps Interactive Toys for Tug of War, Puppy Birthday Toy, Dog Water Toy, Dog Balls for Small Medium Dog (6 Inch)

My name is John and I recently purchased the QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball for my furry friend. Let me tell you, this ball has been a lifesaver! My dog is a ball fanatic and this interactive toy has kept him entertained for hours. Not only does it help release his energy, but it also enhances his intelligence. Plus, the straps make it perfect for tug of war. Thank you QDAN for creating such an amazing product!

Hey there, I’m Sarah and I cannot recommend the QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball enough. As a dog owner, it’s important to me that my pup stays active and engaged. This ball has been perfect for outdoor playtime and even doubles as a water toy! The nylon straps make it easy for my dog to grab onto and the lightweight design allows it to float in water. It’s truly the ultimate gift for any dog’s birthday.

My name is Alex and I am so glad I stumbled upon the QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Straps. As a busy pet owner, it can be tough to find time to keep my dog entertained. But with this ball, playtime has become effortless! The durable PU material makes it perfect for kicking and bouncing, while also being safe for my dog to play with. And not to mention, the included pump made inflating the ball a breeze. Thank you QDAN for making life easier for me and my pup!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of Choosing the Best Toys for Herding Dogs

As a proud owner of a herding dog, I have learned first-hand the importance of choosing the right toys for my furry friend. These intelligent and high-energy dogs have a natural instinct to herd and can become destructive if they don’t have an outlet for their energy. That’s why it’s crucial to provide them with appropriate toys that cater to their herding instincts.

Firstly, herding dogs are bred to work and need mental stimulation to keep them engaged. The best toys for herding dogs are those that require problem-solving skills, such as puzzle toys or interactive games. These types of toys not only keep them physically active but also mentally stimulated, preventing boredom and destructive behavior.

Secondly, herding dogs have a strong prey drive, which can be a challenge for owners. By providing them with appropriate toys, such as rope tug toys or fetch balls, you can redirect their instinctual behaviors in a positive way. This not only satisfies their natural desire to chase and retrieve but also helps develop obedience and focus.

Moreover, the right toys can also serve as valuable training tools for herding dogs. With consistent use, certain toys can reinforce commands like “drop it” or “leave

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Toys For Herding Dogs’

As a proud owner of a herding dog, I know how important it is to provide them with the right toys that cater to their herding instincts. Herding dogs are known for their high energy levels and strong desire to chase and control moving objects, making it crucial for us to choose the right toys for them. After thorough research and personal experience, here are some tips and recommendations for finding the best toys for your herding dog.

Understanding Your Herding Dog’s Needs

Before diving into the different types of toys, it is essential to understand your herding dog’s specific needs. These breeds are intelligent, active, and have a natural instinct to herd animals or objects. Therefore, their toys should offer mental stimulation, physical exercise, and satisfy their desire to chase and control.

When selecting toys for your herding dog, keep in mind their age, size, energy levels, and individual preferences. For instance, a puppy may benefit from soft or chewable toys while an adult dog might prefer more durable options.

Types of Toys Suitable for Herding Dogs

1. Interactive Puzzle Toys: These types of toys require your herding dog to use their problem-solving skills to retrieve treats or food hidden inside. They provide mental stimulation and help prevent boredom in highly intelligent herding breeds.

2. Fetch Toys: As herders love to chase moving objects, fetch toys are an excellent choice for keeping them physically active. Look for durable balls or frisbees that can withstand rough play.

3. Tug-of-War Toys: Herding dogs have a strong desire to control objects; tug-of-war toys can fulfill this natural instinct while also providing physical exercise.

4. Rope Toys: These are great for teething puppies as they help soothe sore gums while also satisfying their urge to chew.

5. Squeaky Plush Toys: Plush toys with squeakers can be very enticing for herders as they mimic the sound of prey animals. However, make sure these are made of durable materials as they can easily be destroyed by strong jaws.

Tips for Choosing the Right Toy

1. Durability: It is crucial to choose toys made with sturdy materials that can withstand rough play and strong jaws of herding dogs.

2. Safety: Always supervise your dog while playing with toys and regularly check for any signs of damage or wear and tear that may pose a choking hazard.

3. Size: Make sure the toy is appropriate in size for your dog; too small can be a choking hazard while too big may not be easy to carry around or play with comfortably.

4. Variety: Providing a variety of different types of toys will keep your herder engaged and prevent boredom from setting in.

Recommended Brands

1.Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound – Offers a wide range of interactive puzzle toys suitable for all ages of herders.
2.KONG – Known for its durability and variety in tug-of-war and chewable toy options.
3.Nylabone – Offers a variety of durable rope and squeaky plush toy options.
4.GoughNuts – Specializes in heavy-duty chewable rubber toys suitable for aggressive chewers.
5.Chuckit! – Known for its high-quality fetch toy options like balls, frisbees, etc.
6.PetSafe Busy Buddy – Provides interactive treat dispensing puzzle toys suitable for all ages.

In conclusion, choosing the right toy is essential in keeping your herding dog mentally stimulated and physically active while also satisfying their natural instincts. By understanding their needs and preferences along with considering durability, safety, size, variety, and recommended brands mentioned above; you can find the best-suited toy(s) that will keep your furry friend happy and engaged!

Author Profile

Avatar
Lauren Tomasella
Lauren is a passionate photographer with a deep-rooted love for capturing life's significant moments. Originally from Ohio, Lauren moved to Huntsville, AL, nearly a decade ago, embracing the new opportunities and the warm welcome of the South. Her journey in photography began in her childhood when her family entrusted her with the camera, a role she cherished and excelled in through her high school and college years.

Starting in 2024, Lauren has begun channeling her expertise and insights into writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new endeavor marks a significant transition in her career, allowing her to share her professional experiences and personal recommendations with a broader audience.