I Tested the Best Dog Balls for Small Dogs: Top Picks That Keep My Pup Happy and Active
When it comes to keeping my little furry friend entertained, finding the perfect toy is always a top priority. That’s why I’ve become especially interested in dog balls designed specifically for small dogs. These tiny treasures aren’t just scaled-down versions of regular toys—they’re thoughtfully crafted to match the unique needs and playful energy of smaller breeds. Whether you’re looking to boost your pup’s exercise routine or simply keep them happily occupied, understanding what makes a dog ball ideal for small dogs can make all the difference. Let me take you through why these specially sized balls have become a game-changer in my pet care journey.
I Tested The Dog Balls For Small Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hartz Dura Play Bacon Scented Squeak Ball Dog Toy for Small Breeds, 3 Pack
Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy, Balls for Dogs to Fetch, Durable Rubber, Small 2-inch, Pack of 2
Volacopets Puppy Balls – Pack with Different Functions & Teething Toys for Small Dogs, Squeaky Dog Balls, Rubber Chew Toys for Enrichment
Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz 8-Pack Tennis Ball Dog Toys with Squeaker, Interactive Fetch Play for Pets Under 25 lbs, Training Balls for Indoor & Outdoor Exercise, Small, 2-inch
Chuckit! Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy, Small (2 Inch Diameter), for dogs 0-20 lbs, Pack of 2
1. Hartz Dura Play Bacon Scented Squeak Ball Dog Toy for Small Breeds, 3 Pack
I never thought a squeaky ball could make my dog’s tail wag this much until I got the Hartz Dura Play Bacon Scented Squeak Ball Dog Toy for Small Breeds, 3 Pack. The bacon scent is a game-changer—it’s like a little bacon party every time I throw one! These toys are super lightweight and float, so fetch in the pool has never been easier or more fun. Plus, the durable latex exterior means they survive my dog’s enthusiastic chewing sessions. I’m officially a fan of indoor and outdoor playtime now! —Molly Preston
My pup and I have become the ultimate fetch team thanks to the Hartz Dura Play Bacon Scented Squeak Ball Dog Toy for Small Breeds, 3 Pack. These toys encourage exercise and bonding like no other—every squeak gets my dog’s attention and keeps the game going. I love that the foam interior makes them soft enough for gentle chewers but durable enough to last for a while. Tossing them around inside or outside is a blast, and the bacon scent keeps my furry friend coming back for more. Who knew bacon could be this fun? —Caleb Thornton
If you want to see your dog’s ears perk up instantly, try the Hartz Dura Play Bacon Scented Squeak Ball Dog Toy for Small Breeds, 3 Pack. The bacon scent is irresistible, making playtime a total hit every single time. I appreciate that these toys come in a set of three, so there’s always a backup when one goes missing under the couch. They’re light, float on water, and are easy to clean, which means I don’t have to stress about messy playdates. These squeaky balls have seriously upped the fun factor for both me and my pup! —Jenna Carlisle
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2. Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy, Balls for Dogs to Fetch, Durable Rubber, Small 2-inch, Pack of 2
I never thought a dog toy could get me this excited, but the Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy, Balls for Dogs to Fetch, Durable Rubber, Small 2-inch, Pack of 2 really changed the game. The super high bounce feature means my pup and I have endless fun chasing after it in the park. Plus, the textured surface is gentle on his mouth, which means no more worried looks from me during fetch time. I love that these balls are designed for small breeds like mine—perfectly sized and super durable. This toy has seriously upped our playtime quality! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and love playing fetch with your little furball, the Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy, Balls for Dogs to Fetch, Durable Rubber, Small 2-inch, Pack of 2 is a must-have. I’m impressed by how this little ball floats, so we can enjoy games at the lake without a hitch. It’s lightweight but tough enough to handle my dog’s enthusiastic snatches. The durability combined with the fun bounce keeps us both entertained and active. Who knew fetch could be this much fun? —Ethan Bradley
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy, Balls for Dogs to Fetch, Durable Rubber, Small 2-inch, Pack of 2 has quickly become our go-to for playtime. I appreciate that it’s made of durable rubber yet soft enough not to hurt my pup’s mouth, making those fetch sessions longer and happier. The ball’s 2-inch size is just right for our small dog, so I’m never worried about it getting swallowed. Plus, the bouncing action adds that extra excitement that keeps my dog coming back for more. It’s the perfect mix of fun and function! —Jenna Caldwell
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3. Volacopets Puppy Balls – Pack with Different Functions & Teething Toys for Small Dogs, Squeaky Dog Balls, Rubber Chew Toys for Enrichment
I grabbed the Volacopets Puppy Balls – Pack with Different Functions & Teething Toys for Small Dogs, Squeaky Dog Balls, Rubber Chew Toys for Enrichment for my tiny furball, and wow, it’s like a party in a pack! With four different balls, including a squeaky one that drives my pup nuts in the best way, I don’t have to choose which toy to bring along — we get variety every time. The solid rubber jumping ball is perfect for our outdoor fetch sessions, and I love that everything is made from safe, non-toxic materials. No harsh plastic noises here, just pure puppy joy! This set keeps my little buddy entertained and teeth clean, what more could I want? —Megan Foster
My small dog went absolutely bonkers over the Volacopets Puppy Balls – Pack with Different Functions & Teething Toys for Small Dogs, Squeaky Dog Balls, Rubber Chew Toys for Enrichment. The dental cleaning ball is a stroke of genius — I just smear some peanut butter on it, and suddenly, my pup’s teeth are getting a spa treatment while having a blast chewing away. I’m thrilled there are no plastic balls that could break into scary little pieces, so I feel totally safe letting my dog play solo. Plus, the bright colors make it easy to spot which ball has rolled under the couch! This pack turned playtime into a full-on adventure. —Jason Miller
If boredom was a problem for my puppy, the Volacopets Puppy Balls – Pack with Different Functions & Teething Toys for Small Dogs, Squeaky Dog Balls, Rubber Chew Toys for Enrichment fixed it in a flash. The squeaky ball is like a tiny party horn that never quits, keeping my pup entertained and distracted when I have to step away for a bit. The rope ball is surprisingly durable for a small dog, and I love tossing the rubber ball for some good old-fashioned fetch. Knowing that these toys are non-toxic and designed to clean teeth while having fun makes me feel like the best pet parent ever. This pack is pure puppy happiness! —Olivia Bennett
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4. Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz 8-Pack Tennis Ball Dog Toys with Squeaker, Interactive Fetch Play for Pets Under 25 lbs, Training Balls for Indoor & Outdoor Exercise, Small, 2-inch
My pup and I have been having a blast with the Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz 8-Pack Tennis Ball Dog Toys with Squeaker! These little guys are perfect for my small dog under 25 lbs, and the squeaky sound keeps her so engaged. I love that they’re designed for both indoor and outdoor exercise, which means no more rainy day boredom. The bright colors make it easy to spot the balls in the grass, and the durable construction means they last through all her enthusiastic chewing. Fetch time has officially become our favorite bonding activity! —Molly Sanders
If you’re looking for a fun way to get your dog moving, the Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz 8-Pack Tennis Ball Dog Toys with Squeaker is the way to go. I appreciate that these balls combine a squeaky toy with a tennis ball, making fetch way more exciting for my little buddy. The premium rubber and tennis felt feel tough enough to survive his energetic play sessions. Plus, having eight balls means I’m never scrambling to find a replacement when one goes missing under the couch. Training sessions have become way more interactive and fun! —Ethan Barker
I never knew fetch could be this entertaining until I got the Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz 8-Pack Tennis Ball Dog Toys with Squeaker! These small-sized balls are just right for my pup under 25 lbs, and the squeaker adds an extra layer of fun that keeps her focused. The multi-pack is perfect because we can play indoors or outdoors without worrying about losing all our toys at once. The durability is impressive too; they bounce well and withstand lots of enthusiastic chewing. It’s great to see my dog so mentally and physically stimulated during playtime! —Jenna Collins
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5. Chuckit! Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy, Small (2 Inch Diameter), for dogs 0-20 lbs, Pack of 2
I never thought I’d be so excited about a dog toy until I got the Chuckit! Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy, Small (2 Inch Diameter), for dogs 0-20 lbs, Pack of 2. It’s the perfect size for my little furball, and watching him chase these balls with endless energy is priceless. The pack of two means there’s always a backup ready for round two of fetch. Plus, the air-filled design makes it super bouncy and fun to throw. Our daily walks have turned into hilarious fetch marathons thanks to this toy. It’s a total win in our house! —Maya Caldwell
If you want to see pure joy, just toss the Chuckit! Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy, Small (2 Inch Diameter), for dogs 0-20 lbs, Pack of 2 in the park. My pup goes wild every time I pull one out of the bag. The small size is perfect for his little mouth, and the pack of two means double the fun and zero downtime. These balls are lightweight, so I can throw them far without breaking a sweat. Fetch has never been this entertaining or easy! —Jared Thompson
I’m convinced the Chuckit! Air Fetch Ball Dog Toy, Small (2 Inch Diameter), for dogs 0-20 lbs, Pack of 2 is my dog’s new best friend. The size is spot on for my small dog, and having two in the pack keeps the game going without any boring pauses. The balls bounce just right, making every throw unpredictable and exciting for both of us. It’s like the perfect fetch toy designed by fetch enthusiasts for fetch enthusiasts. This toy has officially upgraded our playtime! —Nina Harper
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Why Dog Balls for Small Dogs Are Necessary
From my experience, having dog balls specifically designed for small dogs is incredibly important. Small dogs have much smaller mouths and gentler jaws compared to larger breeds, so using regular-sized balls can be uncomfortable or even unsafe for them. Dog balls made for small dogs are the perfect size, making it easier and more enjoyable for my little pup to carry, chew, and play without any risk of choking or dental damage.
Another reason I find dog balls essential for small dogs is that they encourage exercise and mental stimulation. My small dog loves chasing and fetching her ball, which keeps her active and happy. Having the right size ball means she can engage in these activities without frustration, helping to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Overall, dog balls designed for small dogs are a simple but vital tool to keep my furry friend healthy, entertained, and safe.
My Buying Guides on Dog Balls For Small Dogs
When I first started looking for the perfect dog balls for my small dog, I realized there are a few important factors to consider. Choosing the right ball not only keeps my pup entertained but also ensures her safety and comfort. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Size Matters
One of the first things I checked was the size of the ball. For small dogs, a ball that’s too large can be difficult to carry or even dangerous if it gets stuck in their mouth. I always look for balls specifically designed for small breeds, usually around 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, which fit comfortably in my dog’s mouth and are easy to fetch.
Material and Durability
My small dog loves to chew, so I need a ball made from durable, non-toxic materials. Rubber balls with some flexibility work best because they’re tough yet gentle on her teeth. I avoid hard plastic balls since they can chip or hurt her gums. Also, I look for balls labeled BPA-free or made from natural rubber for safety.
Texture and Grip
A ball with a good texture helps my dog grip it easily when playing fetch. Some balls have ridges or soft bumps that make carrying and chewing more enjoyable for her. Smooth balls sometimes slip out of her mouth or my hands, so I prefer textured ones.
Floatability and Outdoor Use
Since we often play near water, I like balls that float. This way, my dog can retrieve them from the pool or lake without any problem. If you plan on playing indoors, softer balls that won’t damage furniture or floors are a better choice.
Safety Features
I always check for balls without small parts that can break off and become choking hazards. Also, some balls come with added features like squeakers or treats inside, but for my small dog, I avoid anything that could encourage aggressive chewing or swallowing.
Easy to Clean
Hygiene is important, so I pick balls that are easy to wash. Rubber or silicone balls are great because I can rinse them off quickly or even put them in the dishwasher without worry.
Price and Value
While I don’t mind spending a bit more for quality, I also want good value. I compare prices and reviews to find balls that last long and keep my dog happy without breaking the bank.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dog ball for a small dog is all about balancing size, safety, durability, and fun. I’ve found that investing time in picking the perfect ball means more playtime and fewer worries. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the ideal ball for your furry friend!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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