When we were evacuated during the Santa Cruz fire in 2020, our dog Huckleberry was stressed, anxious, and missing her sense of purpose. Like many herding dogs, she thrived on routine, structure, and—most of all—a job to do. With no sheep and no familiar yard to run in, we had to get creative. That’s when the idea for CollieBall, the original herding ball for dogs, was born.

From Fire Evacuation to a Dog’s Favorite Toy

We needed something that would help Huckleberry stay active and calm. Something that didn’t need a ton of space but still spoke to her instincts. So we made her a big, durable ball—too large to pick up but perfect for nudging, chasing, and circling. She lit up. It gave her a task, a purpose, and honestly, it gave us a little peace too.

That first herding ball changed everything—for her, and eventually, for lots of dogs just like her.

Why Herding Dogs Need More Than Just Playtime

If you’ve ever lived with a Border Collie, Aussie, Cattle Dog, or any other herding breed, you know: these dogs are wired differently. They’re intelligent, driven, and need more than walks and fetch. Without something meaningful to do, they can get bored—and bored herding dogs tend to get into trouble.

That’s where a herding ball shines. It lets dogs act on their natural instincts in a safe, structured way—even if you live in the middle of a city.

What Makes CollieBall Special

Unlike standard fetch toys, CollieBall is designed to be herded, not retrieved. Its two-layer design includes:

  • A bouncy inner ball for movement
  • A tough, chew-resistant cover to handle all the nips and nudges

It’s built to be chased, corralled, and redirected—just like a flock. And for dogs like Huckleberry, it was exactly what she needed to feel like herself again.

For City Dogs With Big Instincts

Urban pups often don’t have space to run free or work livestock. But that doesn’t mean they have to lose their purpose. Whether you’ve got a backyard or just hit the dog park, CollieBall gives dogs the challenge they crave.

And dog parents are noticing the difference:

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“This is the first toy that truly holds my dog’s attention. She’s not just playing—she’s working, thinking, and totally focused. Game changer.”
— Marcus L., Austin, TX

From One Dog to Thousands

What began as a homemade solution during a crisis has grown into something bigger: a way for herding dogs everywhere to reconnect with who they are.

CollieBall isn’t just a toy. It’s a tool for enrichment, a source of joy, and a reminder that even city dogs can live a life full of purpose.