Best Smart Pet Toys
for 2026

The iFetch Too is the benchmark automatic ball launcher. Adjustable distances of 10, 25, and 40 feet cover everything from studio apartments to backyards. It accepts standard 2.5-inch mini tennis balls and iFetch's own balls, and self-loads when your dog drops the ball back into the funnel. The rechargeable battery handles a full play session. Teach your dog the self-loading behavior in a few sessions and it runs completely hands-free — the closest thing to a tireless throwing partner.

PetSafe's launcher wins on versatility where the iFetch Too wins on compactness. It uses standard tennis balls — no proprietary supply needed — and offers 9 distance and angle combinations that cover anywhere from a hallway to an open yard. The motion sensor safety shutoff stops it when your dog is too close to the barrel. At roughly $130, it's the better pick if you have a large-breed dog or already own a supply of tennis balls.

The Cheerble Wicked Ball solves the biggest failure point of cheap rolling toys: getting stuck under furniture. Its built-in obstacle avoidance sensors redirect it automatically when it hits a wall or chair leg. Three activity modes — gentle, normal, and active — let you match intensity to your pet. An automatic rest period kicks in after play time to prevent overstimulation. It works well for both cats and small dogs, which is genuinely rare in this category. USB-C charging, solid build.

The SmartyKat Hot Pursuit takes a different approach entirely: a wand and feather tip move erratically under a crinkle fabric cover, mimicking a small animal moving under leaves. The unpredictable concealed movement triggers hunting instincts more effectively than open-air toys for many cats. Variable speed settings adjust intensity. It's the most affordable pick on this list and one of the most consistent for feline engagement — some cats who ignore other toys are immediately captivated by the under-cover movement.

The FroliCat Bolt is the simplest hands-free option on this list. Point it in any direction, switch to automatic, and it sweeps random laser patterns across walls and floors for 15-minute sessions before shutting off. It works for both cats and smaller dogs that chase light. The main limitation of any laser toy applies here: no physical reward at the end of the chase can frustrate some pets. Best paired with a physical toy to finish each session properly.