Yes, that little plastic ball is a product that I mold intended to stop dogs from digging under the fence called The Oleballnchain (hence my user name). It's a pet product business I run on the side and it works really well. Guido is really my dog, adopted from the humane society and he actually loves the "ball" and knows that word, because it gives him the chance to run around the yard and explore without getting out of the yard. Funny how good dogs are at association, he knows "mail" "treat" "walk" "speak" and "ball" about the same but I have yet to decode one of his barks. Great dog, I would really strongly recommend adopting from the shelter if you get the chance.