★★★★★ 5
What I've been looking for
Size: Large (Pack of 1)
Just got my Nero Ball. Only used it once, but really like it. I've tried other "ball on a string" type toys, with unsatisfactory results. I'll be using it as a training reward, and my boy, who is a pretty ferocious tugger, is going to learn 2 new things with this ball. 1st, to target the ball instead of the rope, and 2nd, that it's for a little gentle tugging instead of the full throttle stuff he does otherwise. After our 1st session with the Nero Ball, he's picking up on the new rules quickly. We'll see how it does long term, but I think this is one I'll stay with.
*UPDATE* Been using my Nero Ball for a month now. I'm tempted to call it the 'Hero Ball' because it's just that terrific!! For me, the key has been putting in the time to allow both myself & my dog to develop the skill to use this tool smoothly. May sound strange, but using a toy as a training reward requires practice, and each different toy configuration requires different handling. It's time well spent - we're both having a lot of fun!
Kudos to the designer of this ball. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the length & material of the rope (just the right length that the dog won't step on it; material is easy on the hand while still being tough enough to withstand a few toothy grabs; the loop is the perfect size to grab for a little tug or to pass the ball through to slip-knot it onto a belt loop). The ball is also just right. The knobs make it non-slip, the rubber eliminates tennis ball fuzz concerns, and being semi-hard and hollow makes it slightly compress-able, which makes it a higher value reward than a solid ball that can't be compressed.
While this ball will not work for every application or for every dog, if you carefully read & understand the information provided and don't expect it to work outside those parameters, you will be pleasantly surprised by a very well designed, well constructed tool that you can use to enhance your training or play sessions with your dog.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on April 27, 2016
