Herding Ball for Dogs and Horses 18in Jolly Ball - Boost Agility

In this review of the Herding Ball for Dogs and Horses, the bottom line is simple: this is a practical training and play tool for active herding breeds that need both physical and mental stimulation. Built with reinforced stitching, thick webbing and a shortened ergonomic handle, the ball is designed to survive repeated pushing, nudging and tugging while encouraging natural herding and agility behaviors. The reviewer found it especially well suited to Australian Shepherds and German Shepherds and appreciated the removable, machine-washable cover and the included inflating kit for easy setup.

Key Features

• Engage Natural Instincts: The large, rolling shape encourages dogs to chase and herd, helping develop coordination and agility through active play.
• Durable Construction: Reinforced sewing, thicker webbing and stronger threads stand up to vigorous play and reduce the risk of tearing during sessions.
• Improved Handle Design: The shortened ergonomic handle sits close to the ball so it is harder for dogs to bite through and easier for owners to lift with a single press.
• Mental Stimulation: The interactive design challenges dogs mentally as well as physically, promoting curiosity and cognitive development during training.
• Easy Care and Setup: The removable cover is machine washable and the included pump, extra stoppers and remover make inflation and maintenance straightforward.
• Multiple Sizes and Colors: Available in an 18in size with more sizes planned and a blue or blue/orange option to match different training needs.

Who It's For

The Herding Ball is aimed at owners of medium to large herding breeds such as Australian Shepherds and German Shepherds who want a durable, interactive tool for agility drills, herding practice or energetic play. Trainers who use rolling targets and owners who seek to strengthen the bond with their dog through guided sessions will find the ball useful.

It is less appropriate for very small dogs that cannot move an 18in ball comfortably or for owners who expect a totally indestructible chew toy for extreme chewers; in those cases a smaller, heavier-duty chewing-specific toy is a better match.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sturdy reinforcement and thick webbing make it more bite-resistant than standard balls.
• Shortened handle design reduces exposed fabric for a cleaner, more durable grip point.
• Removable, machine-washable cover keeps the ball hygienic and easy to maintain.
• Comes with an inflating kit including pump, stoppers and remover for quick setup.

Cons

• At 18in this size is best for medium to large dogs and horses; very small breeds may struggle to use it effectively.

Specifications

Product type	Herding ball for dogs and horses
Size	18in (S)
Colors	Solid blue or blue/orange
Construction	Non-toxic materials with reinforced stitching and thick webbing
Handle	Ergonomic shortened handle mounted close to the ball
Care	Removable cover, machine washable
Included	Inflating pump, 3 extra stoppers, remover

Our Verdict

For owners of medium to large herding dogs who want a durable, interactive training aid, this 18in herding ball delivers solid value: it encourages natural herding instincts, supports agility work and is easier to keep clean than many alternatives. The reinforced build and smart handle design address common durability concerns, making it a practical choice for regular outdoor and training use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cover washable?
Yes, the ball has a removable cover that is machine washable for simple cleaning.

What is included with the ball?
The package includes an inflating pump, three extra stoppers and a remover to assist with inflation and maintenance.

Is 18in the only size?
The reviewed model is 18in (S); a 25in (M) size is available and larger sizes are planned.