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Tired of playing fetch the same way every day?
That’s where the AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher can come in and change things up. However, there are plenty of automatic dog ball launchers out there…
Does the AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher hold up to the rest?
In this post, I’ll discuss all the pros and cons of this ball launcher, its features, what other owners of the device have to say about it, and the most frequently asked questions about it.
If you’re considering buying the AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher, read on to discover all you need to know about this toy!
Let’s jump right in.
Table of Contents
Quick Summary Of The AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher
When it comes to choosing a ball launcher for your furry friend, many people consider the AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher.
This device is designed to make playing fetch with your pup a breeze. The ball launcher can throw the ball either 10, 20, or even up to 30 feet, making it perfect for small or big yards.
It can be used on the go with 6 C batteries (not included) or in your home with the use of the wall plug-in that comes with the device.
The drop area for the balls is a little small, making it slightly more challenging for a dog to learn how to use the toy by themselves. But it looks like this was done to maintain its clean, modern design.
AFP Automatic Ball Launcher Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Throws balls up to 30 feet.
- It can be used with batteries or a wall plug.
- Comes with three tennis balls.
- Once learned, balls are easy to load into the device.
- Less expensive than other automatic ball launchers.
- Small and easily portable, making it easy to take anywhere you and your dog go.
- Designed for small and medium-sized dogs.
- It can be used inside or outside.
CONS:
- The ball’s drop area is small, making it more challenging for some dogs to learn how to use it.
- Powerful launching, which could harm your dog if they stand too close.
- Balls need to be relatively clean for the device to function properly.
AFP Dog Ball Launcher Build & Specifications Summary
- Brand: All For Paws
- Device: Automatic Dog Ball Launcher
- Size: Small
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
- Dimensions L x W x H: 10.2 x 8.3 x 10.6 inches
- Launching Distance: 10, 20, or 30 feet
- Ball Size: 2’’/5cm
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Date First Available: Aug. 7, 2014
- Rechargeable Battery: No
AFP Automatic Ball Launcher Sizes
This review is about the “mini” AFP Automatic Ball Launcher, which we just outlined in the section above. But it looks like they also have a “maxi” size available.
The “maxi” size is a bit larger and heavier, coming in at L x W x H: 13 x 12.7 x 11.1 inches, and weighs around 8 pounds. The balls that come with this device are also slightly larger, being that they are standard tennis balls.
The dimensions and weight of the “maxi” size make it less portable than the “mini,” but it can still be used both inside and outside. If you have a large dog, this may be the better option for you as it can launch balls up to 40 feet.
AFP Automatic Ball Launcher Distance Control
The AFP Automatic Ball Launcher has three different settings for the distance that it will launch the ball. These settings are:
- Short (around 10 feet)
- Medium (around 20 feet)
- Long (up to 30 feet)
Depending on the size of your yard and your dog’s fetching abilities, you can choose the setting that works best for you.
It’s also important to note that the further you set the distance, the more powerful the launch will be. So if you have a small dog, it’s best to start with the shorter setting and work your way up.
This way, they learn not to stand directly in front of the device when it’s launching, which helps them avoid getting hurt. It also makes training easier as they can bring the ball back quicker and get more attempts to learn where to drop it.
What Other Dog Owners Have To Say About The AFP Ball Launcher
The AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher has a rating of 4 out of 5 on Amazon, with over 50% of reviewers giving it a full 5 stars.
Many purchasers have said this is a great toy for their dogs and keeps them entertained for hours. One lady shared they keep it plugged in all day and her Shiba loves it and uses it often.
Others shared that the launcher worked great, and their only challenge was training their dog how to use it.
However, as with any product, there were a few complaints as well.
Some people shared that the balls were too small for some dogs and that the device couldn’t throw the ball as far as advertised. Or that it didn’t last very long, with one lady saying it stopped working after 2 months.
While these complaints are valid, the amount of them is fewer than the number of positive experiences people have had using the AFP Automatic Ball Launcher.
Over 75% of people either gave it a 4 or 5-star rating on Amazon, with roughly 100 people sharing a review of the device.
Overall, people seem very happy with this toy and would recommend it to others.
AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher FAQs
Can I use the AFP Automatic Ball Launcher indoors?
Yes, you can use the AFP Automatic Ball Launcher indoors as long as there is enough space. However, it’s best to use it in an area where there aren’t a lot of fragile, breakable items, as the ball can travel quite far.
What is the warranty on the AFP Automatic Ball Launcher?
The AFP Automatic Ball Launcher has a money-back guarantee, but we could not find whether it was valid for 30-days, 60-days, 6 months, etc.
How do you clean the AFP Automatic Ball Launcher?
The manufacturer recommends using a damp cloth to wipe down the device as needed. Do not submerge it in water or put any liquids inside of it.
How long does it take to train my dog to use it?
This will vary for each dog, but it shouldn’t take more than a week before they get the hang of it. Many dogs can pick it up on their first day playing with it, but some take longer.
Just be patient and keep trying; eventually, they’ll understand what to do.
Final Thoughts
The AFP Automatic Dog Ball Launcher is a great toy for dogs who love to fetch. It’s also perfect for those days when you can’t play with your pup, but they still need to burn off some energy.
This device is straightforward to use and can be operated by any dog.
One of the best things about this toy is that it comes with a money-back satisfaction guarantee. So if you’re unhappy with it, you can always get your money back.
Overall, we think the AFP Automatic Ball Launcher is a good choice. However, if you have the means to spend a little more, there are other automatic dog ball launchers you should also look at.
