A wet, muddy ball is nobody’s favourite thing to pick up. A launcher fixes that at once, adding distance beyond manual throwing while keeping hands away from the drool.
We have compared five ball launchers currently available at Amazon UK, from the classic Chuckit! designs to a trigger-fired blaster.
Quick Comparison Table
Product | Best For | Price Range | Rating |
Chuckit! Sport 14S Launcher | Most dogs, most of the time | £7-£9 | 4.0/5 |
Chuckit! Sport 18M Launcher (64cm) | Extra distance, longer walks | £8-£10 | 4.4/5 |
Nerf Dog 12in Ball Blaster | Distance without arm swing | £20-£23 | 4.1/5 |
Chuckit! NFD ECO Launcher and Ball | Eco-friendly set | £12-£14 | 4.5/5 |
Petface Large Ball Launcher | Budget pick | £3-£5 | 3.7/5 |
The Best Ball Launchers Reviewed
Chuckit! Sport 14S Ball Launcher
Best for: most dogs, most of the time
The Chuckit! launcher is the classic way to throw a ball without touching it. The Sport 14S has a 36cm handle and comes with a tennis ball, keeping your hands clean and adding distance to every throw.
It costs around £8 and averages 4.0 out of 5 across almost 5,700 ratings.
What we like:
- Keeps hands clean
- Adds throwing distance
- Comes with a ball
Worth knowing:
- Shorter than the long-handled models
- Plastic can crack over time
Specifications:
- Type: ball launcher
- Length: 36cm
- Includes: tennis ball
- Brand: Chuckit!
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Chuckit! Sport 18M Ball Launcher (64cm)
Best for: extra distance on longer walks
The 64cm handle of the Sport 18M gives extra leverage, so the ball goes further. It suits high-drive dogs in open spaces.
It costs around £9 and averages 4.4 out of 5 across almost 5,000 ratings.
What we like:
- Long handle for greater distance
- Comfortable grip
- Strong reviews
Worth knowing:
- Awkward to carry on a busy walk
- Best in open spaces
Specifications:
- Type: long ball launcher
- Length: 64cm
- Includes: tennis ball
- Brand: Chuckit!
Nerf Dog 12in Tennis Ball Blaster
Best for: distance without arm swing
The Nerf Dog Blaster launches a tennis ball with a squeeze of the trigger, so it suits owners with a bad shoulder or arm. It also comes with balls.
It costs around £21 and averages 4.1 out of 5 across more than 600 ratings.
What we like:
- Launches with a trigger
- Easy on the arm and shoulder
- Includes balls
Worth knowing:
- Priced above hand launchers
- Mechanism can wear over time
Specifications:
- Type: trigger ball blaster
- Length: 12 inch
- Includes: 3 squeaky tennis balls
- Brand: Nerf Dog
Chuckit! NFD ECO Fetch Day Sport Launcher and Ball
Best for: an eco-friendly launcher set
This launcher is made from recycled material and comes with a matching ball. It is an 18m throw design suited to daily walks.
It costs around £13 and averages 4.5 out of 5 across just over 100 ratings.
What we like:
- Recycled materials
- Launcher and ball in one set
- Good reviews
Worth knowing:
- Fewer ratings than the classic models
- Slightly higher price
Specifications:
- Type: ball launcher set
- Material: recycled
- Includes: ball
- Brand: Chuckit!
Petface Large Ball Launcher
Best for: a budget pick for occasional use
A simple plastic launcher is all many dogs need. The Petface launcher is lightweight and holds a standard tennis ball.
It costs around £4 and averages 3.7 out of 5 across more than 700 ratings.
What we like:
- Very low price
- Lightweight
- Fits a tennis ball
Worth knowing:
- Lower review score
- Less sturdy than premium launchers
Specifications:
- Type: plastic ball launcher
- Size: Large
- Fits: tennis ball
- Brand: Petface
Buying Guide
Ball launcher types explained
Hand launchers use a scoop and your arm. Long-handled versions add distance. Trigger blasters fire the ball with a squeeze.
Size guide
Small dogs suit a smaller ball and a shorter launcher. Medium and large dogs suit a 6.5cm ball and a longer handle.
How much should you spend?
£4-£10 buys a basic launcher. £10-£15 buys eco or premium designs. Trigger blasters cost £20 and above.
Frequently asked questions
Are ball launchers safe for dogs?
Yes, when used with a suitable ball. Avoid encouraging too much high-impact fetch, especially on hard ground or with puppies and older dogs.
What ball size does a launcher take?
Most take a standard 6.5cm tennis-size ball. Check the launcher’s description.
How do I teach my dog to fetch?
Start with short throws and lots of praise, and reward your dog for bringing the ball back.
Can I use a launcher with any ball?
It must fit the cup, so a standard tennis-size ball is best.
Conclusion
The Chuckit! Sport 18M is our top pick for most owners who want distance, and the Sport 14S is a compact all-rounder.
The Nerf Blaster suits owners with shoulder or arm limitations, and the Petface launcher is a cheap option for occasional use.
