The Best Dog-Proof Soccer Balls 2023
You may be tempted to buy a new soccer ball or two just for them, but if it is a regular ball, this can actually do more harm than good. You probably would not have thought so, but dog soccer balls are built much differently than regular ones, making them last much longer if you know what you are looking for.
Keep reading to see some of the best ones that are available today, which is the absolute winner, how you can choose the best one for your fur baby, and some common questions that you may have.
Our Top 5 List
Last update on 2023-12-05 at 07:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Chuckit Kick Fetch Toy Ball
This is one of the few balls that are made with both rubber and foam material. It is also one of the few that have grooves within the ball to help your dog grab onto it, something some smaller dogs have trouble doing with regular round balls.
One nice feature is that it is available in a standard size that works well with medium-sized dogs or a small size that is more suited for toy-sized dogs like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians. It is also available in single, 2, 3, 4, and 5-packs for those of you who either have several dogs or want to stock up for when one ball breaks, which is pretty common.
Because the majority of the ball is made from foam, this is one of the more fragile ones when compared to the rest, but the bright, neon orange foam against the bright blue makes it easily seen when it is outside and in the grass.
Pros
- Made with multiple materials
- Ideal for small to medium dogs
- Easy to grab by any dog
- Great looking shape
- Easy to spot
Cons
- Can be warped by weather or extreme temperatures
- Not ideal for chewers
2. Nerf Soccer Ball
If you grew up in the 70s or later, then you probably have a good idea of how Nerf foam feels, but this is a little bit thicker and more durable than the foam that you can find on their toys.
This ball has the traditional soccer ball look and even the traditional patterns within the ball, but it also has a bright, neon colors to help make it stand out; blue, green, and red. It comes in 4 different sizes (2.5 inches, 3.25 inches, 4 inches, and medium) for small to medium dogs of different sizes for a closer fit.
Unlike most other balls, this one also has a small, built-in squeaker that makes most dogs go crazy, but you will need to watch over them because this is a foam ball that is easily ripped apart if they are left alone with it for more than a few minutes.
When they do poke a hole in it, make sure they have not chewed on or swallowed the squeaker since it is a dangerous choking hazard.
Pros
- Ideal for small to medium dogs
- Easy to spot
- Has a built-in squeaker
Cons
- Is not the best for chewers
- Squeaker has a short lifespan
3. Jolly Pets 8″ Ball
This is one of the few completely rubber balls on this list, but it is also not a solid one, meaning you will not be able to sand it much if at all when it starts to get worn down.
The extra strong rubber and the two different sizes (medium/large and large/x-large) make it suitable for practically any dog, and the non-toxic, subtle vanilla/green apple scent keeps it fresh even if your dog has bad breath.
It also comes in one of the brightest neon orange and green colors and can come in blue but only in medium, usually, and it can float on water, too.
Pros
- Ideal for small to large dogs
- Ideal for chewers
- Has a slight vanilla/green apple scent
Cons
- Is not solid
- Not ideal unsupervised play
4. Fluffy Plush Ball
This ball is actually targeted for kids and not dogs, but it is surprisingly very dog-friendly for puppies and small or toy-sized dogs.
The inner foam is less dense and more squishy, making it easier for tiny dogs to grab onto it. The fuzzy, plush exterior material covering also prevents them from chewing on it because the fuzz bothers them when it gets in their mouth, most of the time.
It can get easily dirty since it has the classic white with black soccer ball look, but it is easily washable since it can be thrown in the washing machine. However, it is not drier compatible, so you will have to find a place to hang it up and dry it where your dog and/or kids cannot get it.
Pros
- Ideal for puppies and small dogs
- Ideal for indoor use
- Is easy to clean
Cons
- Is not the best for chewers or large dogs
5. One World Play Project Ball
Another rubber ball, this one is a little bit larger than the previous one, coming in a 4-inch or 5-inch size, and it is one of the best ones for medium to semi-large dogs. However, it is only available in a pale blue, making it a little harder to find in tall grass.
The rubber is also thicker than the last ball, making it one of the most durable but too heavy for small dogs to pick up or even move. Even though it is rubber, it is not solid, so you might not be able to sand it down to prolong the lifespan.
Although, the regular lifespan can be for several years if it is only being used by a medium-sized dog that does not chew on it much.
Pros
- Is ideal for medium dogs
- Is one of the most durable
- Lifespan is longer than most
Cons
- Can be too heavy for small dogs or puppies
Top 5 Verdict
Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large
Pros
- Multiple materials
- Small to medium dogs
- Easy to grab
- Great look
- Easy to spot
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy chewers
- Extreme temperatures may deform it
Out of those 5, the winner would have to be the first ball, the Chuckit Kick Fetch Ball.
It comes in two different sizes, but both sizes are large enough for medium to big dogs and light enough for little ones, making it great for a group of different-sized dogs to play with at once.
The bright, neon orange that it comes in makes it hard to get lost regardless of where you are throwing it. The rubber inner edges also make it easier for the dogs to hold it in their mouth.
True, this is one of the least durable balls, especially if you have a dog that enjoys chewing them up as soon as they get it, but if you keep an eye on them and keep it stored away when it is not being thrown, it can last for quite a while. It is also a good sense of relief that you can always have a backup ball if you get a pack of 2 or more.
If you are looking for a more durable ball, though, then the runner up would probably be the third product, the Jolly Pets 8″ Soccer Ball.
What to look for
Type
Most dog soccer balls are made from one of two materials: rubber or foam. Rubber ones are the most common because they are more durable and they last longer, even if your dog is the time to chew on the ball after they get ahold of it.
On the other hand, foam soccer balls are generally the least expensive option, and they can be a safe and comfortable choice if your dog has jaw or teeth problems. If this is not the case, though, you will probably want to avoid this type since many dogs rip up the balls and eat the pieces the first moment they get.
Size
Most dog soccer balls are just as big as regular soccer balls, but you can find ones that are a bit smaller or bigger online and in some pet shops. The smaller-sized ones can be easier for smaller dogs to grab and catch.
However, if you have an average-sized or large dog, you may want to avoid smaller balls since they can be a choking hazard, especially if they are left alone with the ball.
Color
If you plan to use the ball indoors, the color is mostly a matter of preference. Outside is another story, especially if you are in a park, field, or forest where thick grass can make it harder to find the ball. In this case, you will probably want to get a color that is easily noticeable like neon yellow or orange.
Other colors like green and blue can be a little more difficult to see, depending on the shade and where you are using it. Also, you may want to avoid white since these are more likely to get grass stains quickly, making them blend in easily.
How often can I use it with my dog?
You can use the ball with your dog as often as you want, provided it is safe enough for the dog and will not be a hazard to them. Remember to breaks every 10 to 15 minutes so that the dog does not get too exhausted, and you may want to have a bowl of water close by so they can stay hydrated and cool, too.
Can any dog play with it?
As long as the dog is healthy enough to run, jump, and carry things in their mouth, yes. The most common reasons a dog should not play with a soccer ball are because of any dental or mouth conditions, weight issues, and health conditions involving their lungs.
Can I use the ball anywhere?
If you do not want to have any accidents, then you should try to use foam balls indoors and rubber balls outdoors. Many dogs get overly excited when it comes to playing with them, and some hit or push against them in the air, turning them into dangerous projectiles that might break an expensive electronic or decoration if it is used indoors.
What do I do if it starts to wear down?
Foam balls wear down very quickly if the dog likes to chew on it, and there is usually no fix for this. However, once a rubber ball is starting to wear down, it can be sanded down so that it can keep being used, as long as a large chunk is not ripped out.
How are dog soccer balls different from normal ones?
Regular soccer balls are mainly material and air, meaning they are easily punctured and popped by dog teeth, something that can easily startle or hurt the dog. Dog soccer balls are specially designed for repetitive biting that will not harm your furry friend/baby.
When should you fix or replace it?
You should try to replace a foam ball once the cover material starts to tear or when the foam is falling out from the ball.
Rubber balls should be fixed as soon as possible when there are either too many holes are deep punctures in the ball since this will prevent the rubber from pinching or piercing their gums or tongue. You should try to replace the ball once the ball gets too small from sanding, the holes are beyond fixing, or large sections of the ball have fallen or been torn off.
Last update on 2023-12-05 at 07:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API