The best remote control car for dogs to chase is a tough, waterproof off-road model like the TENSSENX 1/16 RC Monster Truck, which is built for grass and mud and comes with two rechargeable batteries. If you want a sturdier, hobby-style truck, the HYPER GO H16DR has oil-filled shocks and a 70% throttle limit switch, while cheaper stunt cars like the Hamdol suit gentler play. Whatever you choose, keep the speed sensible and always supervise.
A remote-controlled car is an excellent option for dogs who love to chase and play fetch.
Our Top Picks for Best RC Cars For Dogs
Looking for an extra way to burn off your dog’s energy on top of their daily walks? Chasing a remote control car lets them sprint around freely in a safe, enclosed space, without being tied down to a leash. For more ideas, see our ways to keep your dog entertained while you work from home.
If you have a backyard or a park nearby that you can visit, here are some options that you can choose from to get the best remote control car for dogs to chase:
At a glance
5 picks, each best at something different
1TENSSENX 1/16 RC Monster Truck
This 4WD off-road monster truck is built for the kind of ground dogs love to run on. According to the listing, it reaches up to 40 km/h (about 25 mph) and is made to handle sand, mud, gravel and grass.
All-Metal Drivetrain
The listing describes a metal chassis, metal drive shaft, metal differential and a metal gear servo, which should help it stand up to rough, bumpy ground.
Splash-Resistant Electronics
The ESC is rated IPX4 waterproof, so the truck can go through puddles and wet grass. That is splash resistance, not a truck you should drive through deep water.
Two Batteries and Shock Absorbers
The two 1200mAh batteries give up to about 40 minutes of run time in total, according to the listing, and the shock-absorbing suspension helps it stay stable over bumps.
Pros
- Comes with two 1200mAh rechargeable batteries
- Metal chassis and drivetrain
- LED headlights
Cons
- Top speed is far faster than a dog game needs, so drive it gently
2HYPER GO H16DR RC Monster Truck
The HYPER GO H16DR is a 1:16 scale, ready-to-run 4WD monster truck with a more hobby-style build than most toy RC cars. According to the listing, it reaches 20+ mph on the included 2S LiPo battery.
Solid Build
The listing mentions a honeycomb-designed chassis, an alloy steel drive shaft, metal ball bearings and front and rear gear differentials, so it is made to take bumps and jumps.
Oil-Filled Shocks
The aluminum-capped, oil-filled shock absorbers reduce shaking at speed and help keep the truck stable on uneven grass. It is still a fast car, so keep it well away from your dog’s legs and paws.
Throttle Limit
A 70% throttle limit switch is aimed at beginners and kids, and it is just as useful for keeping the speed sensible when your dog is chasing.
Pros
- 70% throttle limit switch for slower play
- Oil-filled shock absorbers
- Comes with two LiPo batteries
Cons
- Can go much faster with an optional 3S battery, which is too fast for playing with a dog
3Amphibious Truck TO FRY
With one purchase, you would be able to access an excellent remote-control truck that runs on water, and it can even run on grass and dirt because of its large tires and easy mobility.
Non-toxic coat
The car is made with non-toxic materials such as rubber that help it absorb shocks. It’s still a toy with small parts and batteries, though, so don’t let puppies or dogs chew on it.
Water-ready element
There is a rubber seal that protects the interior of the car. This keeps water out and makes it a water-friendly RC toy.
Dual-side running
The FREE TO FLY toy has a double-sided feature that allows it to flip over whenever it bumps or is stopped suddenly. It responds well and can be controlled over a perimeter of 60 meters.
Pros
- Rubber-coated body
- Strong Construction
- Extensive Control Range
Cons
- Short Battery Life
4Hamdol 360° Double-Sided RC Stunt Car
It is a toy-grade stunt car rather than a speed machine, but this double-sided RC car is still a good pick for gentler games of chase in the yard or on the grass.
360° Spins and Flips
The double-sided body lets it spin, flip and keep moving even when it lands upside down, according to the listing.
Anti-Slip Tires
The rubber tires are designed for carpet, tile, grass and sand, so you can use it indoors or in the yard.
Dual Motors and 2.4GHz Remote
Two electric motors drive the car, and the 2.4GHz remote has a range of up to 160 feet, per the listing. A slower stunt car like this is gentler for smaller dogs.
Pros
- Two rechargeable batteries (about 60 minutes in total)
- Keeps driving when flipped over
- LED headlights
- Affordable
Cons
- Built as a kids’ toy, not a hobby-grade car
- Not as fast as the others
5DEERC LED-light RC Car
This DEERC-made RC truck is a solid budget choice for your dog. Its body is made from materials the maker describes as safe and eco-friendly. With high-quality batteries, it can run up to 80 minutes.
Long Travel Time
This RC truck is powered by a rechargeable 3.7V 1200mAh battery. Its total driving time can reach up to 80 minutes.
Car Protector
In the front of the car, there is a bumper that protects it in a collision, so it can handle rough roads and off-road areas.
LED Beacons
The front of the remote-controlled car is furnished with a pair of LED headlights that act as beacons in the dark. These lights make the car easier for you and your dog to spot when playing at dusk.
Pros
- Storage Box for charging
- Anti-Skid Tires
- Automatic Mode
Cons
- Inaccurate Steering
Final thoughts – remote control car for dog
When purchasing a remote-controlled car for your dog, you must pay attention to its size and battery life. You should get a car within your budget that is easy to control, and keep the speed suited to your dog. Used well, an RC car can give your dog a great workout and help boost your bond with each other. If you have a high-energy herding breed, our list of the best toys for cattle dogs has more options, and capture the flag dog toys are another great chasing game.
