Border collies are known for their inborn herding skills. In fact, they are often put in the same category as the German and Australian shepherds – ultimately because of their protective nature.
The best way to keep this type of dog going is by rewarding them with games. In particular, those games need to be ones that engage their herding instincts. In our view, the best toys for border collies are ones that encourage the following kinds of interactions.
- Fetch-by-name kind of interaction
- Games that involve physical & mental energy use
- Toys that provide you with an opportunity to improve your dog’s behavior
Well, that might sound like too much at this point and that’s why we’ve provided you with a list preceding our detailed reviews.
Contents
Top-Rated Toys for Border Collies: Comparison List
Don’t feel like reading a few paragraphs of our informative content? This list is all you need to carry out a quick but thorough comparison.
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The Best Toys for Border Collies – Reviews
1. Trixie Pet Products Level 2 Flip Board
It’s always important to find some games to keep your dogs active and also test their mental intelligence. Besides, playing these games with your pets helps you build a long-lasting relationship with them.
This flip board game of level 2 difficulty is perfect for small dogs. For every compartment opened correctly, the pets are rewarded and this makes the game more enjoyable.
Product Information
This flip board weighs 1.19 pounds, measures 9 by 9 by 1 inches and is made with hard plastic. No batteries are needed since this is a mechanical game. To play; your dog should lift the cones and the flaps or slide the covers.
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Due to the ergonomic design of the cones, they can’t be knocked over but should be removed by lifting them straight up.
Other Features and Benefits
The board is equipped with a rubber rim that is non-slip to keep the game intact. In order to increase the difficulty level, change the numbers as well as interchange the treats. Find more about the game’s tricks and tips from the provided instructional booklet.
Pros
- Backed by a one year warranty
- Dishwasher safe
- Has knobs for easy lifting of the lids
- Keeps your dogs busy
Cons
- The dogs shouldn’t be left unsupervised because of the removable pieces
2. Ifetch Ball Launchers Interactive for Dogs
This properly engineered masterpiece launches only one ball at a time. For a dog to know how and where the ball should be dropped, its mental energy has to be used. If you value so much about your dog’s wellbeing, there’s need for its mental thinking capacity needs to be stimulated regularly.
Product Information
The launcher comes with three balls for increased versatility and a one year warranty. Amazingly, this product runs on a battery if it is fully charged or may be used when plugged in.
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To use the launcher; your dog puts the ball into the ifetch, waits for the ball to be launched and goes after it, then repeats the same process. This launcher measures 10.5 by 8 by 7 inches and weighs 3 pounds.
Other Features and Benefits
So as to avoid the dog being hit by the ball, always train your pet to stand beside or behind the launcher. Just by the touch of a button, you can easily change the distance the interactive toy throws the ball from 10 feet to 30 feet.
This makes the dog get physical and enjoy the game more. Lastly, this launcher is specifically made for small-sized dogs.
Pros
- Keeps your dog more interactive
- Both cord/cordless use
- Adjustable fetching lengths
- Beautiful design
Cons
- Quite expensive
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3. Outward Hound Dog Pole Tail Teaser Toy
Outward tail teasers engage you and your dogs for a fun-filled experience. The easy to carry hound also gives you the chance of playing with your dogs indoors or outdoors. The pole is made of nylon, is rigid and doesn’t break. Also, the pull is well engraved in the cord so that it doesn’t detach.
Product Information
Two baits with loops for attaching to the furthest end of the pull are provided. As only one bait is used, it is easier to clean the other or you may interchange them to make the game more interesting.
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This hound weighs only 5.6 ounces so that it feels lighter on your hand and measures 36.6 by 2.4 by 7.5 inches.
Other Features and Benefits
Don’t allow the dog to catch the toy at one go, instead keep the dog active by moving the hound around. Of course, it will be bad if you don’t allow your pet to catch the bait sometimes. The ergonomically made handle allows for easy grasping of the outward hound tail teaser.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Offers great exercise to you and the pet
- The line is flexible for more maneuverability
- Affordable
Cons
- A naughty dog may destroy the tail teaser’s bait
4. Outward Hound Casino Advanced Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle Toy
This interactive casino-type game allows your dog to play and feed! Put snacks inside the six drawers so as to entice the dog to go looking for them. In the dog’s mind, it will be searching for the food, but in a real perspective, it is playing the game. Simple right!
Product Information
The dog toy is made with strong and durable plastic. Although dishwasher safe, handwashing with soap after every use is recommended. This game removes boredom and keeps your pet occupied for hours. The product has measurements of 13.6 by 14.5 by 2 inches and weighs 1.57 pounds.
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Other Features and Benefits
This level 3 game is played by twisting the bone-shaped knob to uncover a hidden drawer. The drawer can then be pulled open to reveal the concealed treasures. Of great benefit is that your dog’s brain is stimulated and made active in the process.
This is due to the fact that mental stimulation plays an important role in your dog’s health.
Pros
- Made of BPA free plastic
- Delivers exemplary feeding fun
- Indoor or outdoor usage
- Well made
Cons
- Cleaning the drawers may be cumbersome
5. Chuckit! Dog Sport Launcher Ball Thrower
Does your dog like playing fetching games? Then this ball launcher from Chuckit! is here for you. It is typically designed for pet owners who don’t want to bend a lot when playing with their dogs. All you need to do is to place the claw of the launcher over the ball while pressing it down for the ball to hold onto the tool.
Product Information
This plastic ball thrower measures 18 by 4 by 4 inches and has a lightweight of 9 ounces. After the ball has been picked up, grip the handle firmly while extending your arm up and backward so that the ball is behind you.
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From here, swing your arm forward fast and smoothly as your body follows through. The Chuckit! will then release the ball and your dog runs to fetch it.
Other Features and Benefits
This game is suitable for dog breeds of all sizes. Surprisingly, the ball can be thrown up to a distance of 140 feet. The tennis balls used should be of standard size. Meant for outdoor use, throw the ball with caution not to hit any bystanders.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hands-free pick-up
- Easy to control
- Great Fun at low price
Cons
- Some dogs tend to chew the included ball since it is not of high quality.
6. KONG Natural Rubber Classic Dog Toy
Sometimes all you need is for your dog to have appropriate chewing behavior. This classic rubber toy is good for the typical chewers as it keeps them busy, mentally stimulated and manages their weight.
To add more fun, stuff the toy with snacks and top with a KONG easy treat or peanut butter.
Product Information
The Kong measures 3.5 by 2.2 by 2.2 inches, weighs 4 ounces and is made in the USA using materials that are sourced globally. The hole inside this beautifully made kong has a bigger holding capacity to feed even the larger dog breeds.
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Other Features and Benefits
For teething puppies, their insatiable need to chew is fulfilled by this kong. The unpredictable nature of how this rubber toy bounces and rebounds makes it hard for the dog to catch. This sparkles chase instincts within the dog and more fun is achieved.
Pros
- Durable rubber
- The bright red color makes it easy to locate
- Multi-purpose use
- Dishwasher safe
- Insertion of treats keeps dogs occupied
Cons
- They toy’s shape makes it difficult to clean
7. ZippyPaws Interactive Burrow, Hide and Seek Dog Toy
If you are looking for an engaging game that will keep your teething puppies or the interactive grownups busy, you are in the right place. ZippyPaws has developed this hide and seek game for your dogs to have a fun-filled adventure. The toy is made of soft fabric so as not to hurt the teeth of your pets.
Product Information
This toy weighs 11.2 ounces and measures 14 by 6 by 6 inches. To play; take either one, two or all the three included squeaky chipmunks inside the den. Your dog is then challenged to dig them out. Repeat the procedure for more fun.
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Other Features and Benefits
Cleaning is easy since this toy can be put in the washing machine. Always supervise your dogs as they play to keep them safe and avoid unnecessary destruction. While lots of fun will be offered to both you and your pets, you might be surprised that this toy comes at a very affordable price.
Pros
- Great for medium and small-sized dogs
- keeps the mind of your dog stimulated
- Machine washable
Cons
- The little critters in the log aren’t very strong and are easily destroyed
8. Chuckit! Ultra Ball
A lot of dogs love to play fetch, that’s what this easily affordable Ultra Ball Toy from Chuckit! Has come to do. The ball is made from natural rubber, the reason behind its high bouncing nature.
This inspires your medium-bodied dog breeds to leap and jump for an enjoyable fetching adventure. Moreover, the ball is durable and floats better.
Product Information
The package includes two toy balls that don’t slobber nor get dirty easily and can be wiped clean under the sink using warm soapy water. The bright blue and orange beautiful colors get the dog’s attention when in the air and easy to find in water or in the bushes.
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Each ball measures 2.5 by 2.5 by 2.5 inches and they both weight 6.6 ounces.
Other Features and Benefits
This ultra buoyant lightweight ball is available in five different sizes from small to large. Though compatible with the Chuckit! Ball launcher sold separately, the ball can be used on its own. This is attributed to the high bouncing nature of the ball that makes the game more engaging.
Pros
- Locating the ball is easy
- Hard for the dogs to destroy
- Launches very far
- Very bouncy
- Durable
Cons
- A possible choking hazard if the dog is left unmanned
9. Antler Man Antler Pieces Premium Deer Dog Chews
For your insatiable chewing dogs, the Antler chews are here for them. The price of these odor-free antlers is cheaper as compared to other similar products in the market. This package includes 3-4 pieces of the antlers that have a total weight of one pound.
In case you order 2 pounds, the set will contain 6-8 deer pieces, the list goes on and on in that range.
Product Information
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The whole package measures 9 by 7.5 by 1.8 inches. Before antler pieces are released for sale, they are hand-selected, cut and trimmed for your pet’s safety. In addition, the pieces do not chip or splinter, aids in teething as well as cleaning the teeth of your dogs.
Other Features and Benefits
The antler pieces are all-natural with no added preservatives or chemicals that may pose danger to your dogs. Of great importance is that the antlers are rich in natural minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. The antlers keep the dogs occupied so that they don’t gnaw your shoes, furniture or their own dog beds.
Pros
- Premium quality
- 100% pet safe
- Keeps the dogs busy
- Helps in teething
Cons
- Quite expensive
- The antlers are packed according to their weight thus no option of choosing specific sizes
10. Chuckit! Flying Large Squirrel
Mention anything about dogs fun, the common answer you will hear from most pet owners is Chukit! Once again, the company has come up with this flying squirrel to entertain your furry friends and also keep them busy. The squirrel’s spinning feet creates a visual excitement for the dogs, to you and the kids also.
Product Information
The sides of the squirrel are raised for easy pickup. If the only free time you have for your pets is in the evening, worry no more as this squirrel has ergonomically designed paws that glow in the dark. The squirrel has a weight of 5.6 ounces and measures 11.6 by 10.9 by 2.8 inches.
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There’s more, the lightweight toy floats on water and enables you conveniently enjoy a splashing moment in the water.
Pros
- Highly visible
- Durable
- Floatable
- Available in different colors
Cons
- Not good for very hot sunny days as the colors will fade
What Do Border Collies Like?
Border collies are quite playful. What’s more? They respond best when provided with games that allow for interactive playing. Toys that enable you to unlock different levels of experience are, for instance, highly recommended.
Interactive toys are your best bet if you want to keep your pooch engaged. So, you might also want to think in the lines of getting your dog a toy that comes with a treat. Treats are a great way to improve your dog’s reward system and you, therefore, don’t want them to miss out of your selection.
But just to make sure that your choice is great, we’d recommend taking the necessary factors into consideration.
Factors to Consider When Shopping for Border Collies Playthings
No two toys work exactly the same way. Likewise, no two dogs operate and think in exactly the same way. So, you want to pay attention to the following so you can make an informed choice.
What Types of Games Does Your Dog Like?
There are different kinds of games for dogs. And so, it is important to begin by understanding what your dog likes. You can easily tell this as you bond with your furry friend.
For instance, if they like running after things, fetch toys would be a great place to start. Tug toys are good if you have the time and stamina to actively play with your dog.
And if your dog likes chewing stuff, chew toys would be a great place to start. Think of rings, bully sticks, nylon bones, and even antlers.
How Old Is Your Dog?
Dogs don’t age or mature in the same way humans do. But still, their behavior changes with time. For instance, while your 3-week old border collie puppy would be comfortable with soft rubber toys, their 9-month old sibling would probably want to use hardier toys.
When they are young adults, they tend to have lots of energy. And in that case, your best bet is a toy that enables them to get up and running. However, as they hit 7-years-old and above, their energy and jaw strength reduces and, therefore, prefer laid back games with softer toys.
Size and Texture of the Toy Matters
Of course, it’s important to settle for a toy that’s proportionate to the size of your dog. And in regards to texture, your best bet is a toy that’s capable of withstanding torture. Avoid toys that are too soft if yours is a mature, young adult dog.
Balls that have loose edges can be dangerous. In fact, they can easily cause gastrointestinal blockages which can be detrimental to the well-being of your pooch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still having some burning queries regarding the best toys for your Border Collie dog? We have some responses just for you.
Q: What’s the best toy for my medium-chewer?
A: Generally, bone-hard and rope toys are recommended for aggressive chewers. That’s because of their design and durability.
Q: Can I buy squeaky toys for my Border Collie?
A: We generally don’t recommend buying soft squeaky toys for border collie dogs aged 9 months and above. That’s as a safety measure to reduces the chances of choking.
Q: My dog likes to chase, what type of toy should I get them?
A: Retrieving toys are the best ones for dogs with such characteristics. You might want to think of getting flying discs for them so they can catch them mid-air!
Which One Is The Best?
There’s a lot to be said about Border Collies and their favorite toys. But if we were to choose just one of them, it’d have to be the Trixie Pet Puzzle Board. We’d particularly recommend it for older collies. They are a great way to keep the brain engaged.
Final Thoughts
Remember, there are always two sides of a story to every dog toy. So, even as you read the best toys for Border Collies reviews, be sure to pay attention to the pros and cons section. This way, you’ll be able to get your expectations set right before you make a move.
Dr. Elly has always loved animals, and she knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. After studying hard in veterinary school, she practiced in several different countries before moving to North Carolina with her husband and young family. She currently works part time as a veterinarian while caring for her 4 busy children and writing this blog. Dr. Elly genuinely cares about the welfare of her patients. She currently has three dogs, two cats, 5 chickens and 2 rabbits (yes a bit of a zoo!)
