If you’ve got a herding dog, you probably already know the drill: endless energy, sharp intelligence, and a desperate need to do something. Whether it’s barking at shadows, chewing furniture, herding the kids, or digging holes to the center of the earth—your dog isn’t being “bad.” They’re just bored.
That’s the thing about herding breeds like Border Collies, Aussies, Heelers, and Belgian Malinois—they were bred for work. Not walks, not couch cuddles (though they’ll take those too)—but for having a job. And when that job is missing? Trouble usually isn’t far behind.
That’s exactly why we made CollieBall.
Why Do Herding Dogs Need More?
Let’s rewind a little. Herding dogs were originally bred to make decisions on the fly, control the movement of livestock, and stay focused all day long. They’re independent thinkers, athletes, and control freaks in the best way possible.
Now fast forward to life in 2024. These same dogs are often living in cities, suburbs, and apartments—without any sheep in sight. And while fetch and daily walks are great, they just don’t tap into that deep-rooted herding instinct. That’s when bad behaviors start creeping in.
Excessive barking? Chewing shoes? Zoomies at 11 p.m.? It’s not defiance. It’s boredom.
CollieBall: A Herding Ball With Purpose
Enter CollieBall, the original herding ball for dogs designed specifically to help dogs live their natural instincts in a healthy, productive, and fun way.
We built the first CollieBall during a chaotic time—while displaced from the Santa Cruz wildfires in 2020. Our dog Huckleberry, a herding breed, was anxious and restless. We knew she needed more than walks to feel okay. So we made something she could push, chase, and control—without picking it up or destroying it. That first ball became her favorite thing.
Now, thousands of dogs across the country are using CollieBall to do what they were born to do: herd.
What Makes CollieBall Different?
CollieBall is not your average dog toy. It’s a job disguised as fun.
The ball has two parts: an inflatable exercise ball inside, and a tough, replaceable outer cover made from durable ballistic fabric. The design keeps it from being popped or carried around in a dog’s mouth. Instead, dogs use their nose, shoulders, and instincts to keep it moving—just like they would with sheep.
This builds:
- Mental engagement – dogs have to plan, problem-solve, and react
- Physical exercise – without the high-impact wear and tear of constant running
- Confidence and purpose – especially helpful for anxious or reactive dogs
And perhaps most importantly—it helps redirect unwanted behaviors.
How CollieBall Helps Reduce Bad Behavior
When herding dogs don’t have an outlet, their energy goes somewhere. Usually somewhere you don’t want it to.
Here’s how CollieBall can help:
1. Barking
Many herding dogs bark out of boredom or to control their environment (they were bred to do that, after all). Giving them a job like CollieBall can reduce the need to bark, because they’re finally doing something they understand.
2. Chewing
Chewing is often a stress relief for under-stimulated dogs. When they’re physically tired and mentally fulfilled from playing with CollieBall, they’re far less likely to take it out on your favorite shoes.
3. Reactivity
Dogs who get to use their instincts in a healthy way are generally more focused and calmer overall. Herding the ball gives them a sense of control and confidence, which can help ease leash reactivity or overstimulation.
4. Hyperactivity
Zoomies, pacing, and general wild behavior are often signs of unmet needs. CollieBall turns all that chaos into productive, directed movement that satisfies them.
Perfect for Urban Dogs
The beauty of CollieBall is you don’t need a farm or a field. It’s made for small backyards, parks, and open spaces. And since the ball is inflatable, it’s easy to deflate and pack if you’re traveling with your pup. Road trip? Airbnb? Campsite? You can bring your dog’s favorite “job” with you.
It’s enrichment on the go.
Real Dog Parents Are Seeing the Difference
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“We live in a townhouse with a tiny yard, and our Border Collie was driving us nuts with nonstop barking. We gave him a CollieBall and wow—he gets out all his energy in one session and chills the rest of the day.”
– Natalie L., Portland, OR
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“Our Aussie used to chew everything when we weren’t home. After two weeks with CollieBall, that stopped completely. She’s finally tired—in a good way!”
– Jordan K., Chicago, IL
A Toy with Heart
We didn’t set out to create a product—we set out to help our dog. That’s where CollieBall came from. It’s still made with the same purpose: to help herding dogs feel fulfilled, focused, and balanced—even without a flock of sheep.
Because at the end of the day, when your dog has a job, they feel like they belong.
And when they belong, they thrive.
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