A dispensing apparatus is disclosed for dispensing fluid, such as liquid adhesive, from a fluid cartridge having a plunger movable between opposite ends within the cartridge. The dispensing apparatus is releasably coupled to a robot in order to control discharging of the fluid at a particular location. Movement of the plunger is carried out by a cartridge actuator assembly that includes a linear actuator, such as a servomotor, that moves a piston rod into engagement with the plunger such that the plunger can be movable under a force applied by the piston rod. A dispense section of the dispensing apparatus includes a valve assembly with a snuff-back mechanism that prevents excess dripping from an outlet of the dispenser. An end effector assembly may be coupled to the dispense section for dispensing the fluid to an application site in a precise and controlled manner.