9 Ball-Obsessed Dog Breeds
There is something about a round, bouncy, inedible object that some dogs cannot get enough of.
Meet the active dog breeds who are always up for chasing after a ball. They will play fetch for hours or until your arm tires out. Some will even try and cram multiple balls in their mouth at the same time.
Dogs bred to hunt, retrieve, or herd obviously excel and enjoy a game of fetch. This list is not all inclusive but features some of the ones you would guess (with retriever in their name) and others that will surprise you.
Check out 9 ball-obsessed dog breeds below.
Golden Retriever
No big surprise here. Goldens will chase birds, sticks, or anything that moves, but one of their favorites is a ball.
Border Collie
This herding dog not only helps sheep farmers but will fetch a frisbee or ball all day long.
German Shepherd
A great way to exercise these beloved dogs is to play fetch with a ball. However, finding a ball that will hold up to the powerful jaws of a German shepherd may be difficult, so have a few on hand.
Labrador Retriever
America's favorite dog breed loves people and balls. Toss a ball for your four-legged friend and watch as he happily brings it back for another throw.
Belgian Malinois
These intelligent and agile dogs are commonly used as police dogs because they thrive when they have a job to do. They have a lot of energy and need hours of exercise every day, which includes chasing after a ball.
Standard Poodle
These popular hypoallergenic dogs need daily physical and mental stimulation. Playing fetch and having them find toys by names is a great way to engage with them and keep them happy and healthy.
Miniature Schnauzer
Small but mighty these terriers are all about playing and that includes chasing after a ball. While they don't need as much exercise as some of the other breeds on this list, they still enjoy daily walks and playing with toys.
Weimaraner
The "gray ghost", as they are commonly known, have amazing stamina and speed. They love to run and play and one of their favorite games is fetch.
Jack Russell
These feisty dogs are full of energy and love nothing more than leaping across the backyard for a ball. Don't be fooled by their size as these tenacious dogs will play for hours.
Some other honorable mentions are whippet, English Setter Spaniel, and Australian shepherd. Almost all dogs love to play, so grab a ball and tell your dog to "go fetch!"
Full disclosure: your dog may not bring the ball back to you, so you may be the one retrieving it.
Share photos of your ball-obsessed dog in the comments.
Additional Resources
Andrea Powell is an animal enthusiast who resides in West Michigan. When not writing, she is exploring the great outdoors with her dogs and horses.