Automated ball tossing toy for fetch?

[sabrina_]

My 1 yr old red heeler loves playing fetch more than I love anything. I've seen those automated ball tossing toys for dogs (e.g., iFetch, GoDoGo) and wonder if he'd enjoy one. Does anyone's heeler enjoy playing with these sorts of toys? They can be a little pricey, so my only concern is that he'll only want to play fetch with me (which on one level is endearing) and ignore the ball launching toy. I'd appreciate any insights others can offer. Thanks in advance!

 

[beyoung]

@sabrina_ Our red girl , Dixie, loves playing catch with tennis balls more than anything in the world. She thinks of me as her automated ball tossing toy. I have looked at those ball launching toys, but don't have one yet. I would also love to hear others people's experience with them.

 

[mbch]

@sabrina_ I can see my pup get bored if I just repeat the same throw over and over (I was trying to hit something in particular).

There is a drastic change in his engagement and energy level when I keep the throws interesting.

 

[sabrina_]

@mbch Yeah, I've noticed a similar trend. Maybe there are some auto ball tossers that change up how far the ball launches?

 

[mrssusana01]

@sabrina_ The iFetch goes from 20 ft to 40 ft, but it is manual, so you have to be there to flip the switch. Kinda defeats the point....

 

[sabrina_]

@mrssusana01 Thanks for the heads up!