You may find the concept of a dog treadmill either funny or an unnecessary extravagance, but it actually benefits you and your dog in ways aplenty. For one, your dog can exhaust all that pent-up energy on the treadmill, so he doesn’t end up tearing up your cheese-smelling shoes or racing your other pets through the house. A dog treadmill can provide an exercise outlet for a pudgy pooch, so he can get into shape fast without the need to spend more time walking outdoors during the night. If you are tired after working long hours, your dog’s health doesn’t have to suffer since you can walk your dog without having to leave the house. This handy piece of equipment is also great for keeping your dog active, despite having any inclement weather.
8 Best Dog Treadmills
To maximize its benefits, you need to choose only the best dog treadmill. Don’t worry though as we rounded up eight of the best dog treadmills based on efficiency, popularity, and budget.
1. dogPACER Treadmills
Minipacer Treadmill for Small – Medium Dogs
The dogPACER Minipacer Treadmill is a great way to get started, especially if your budget is tight. This treadmill is designed for small- to medium-sized canines weighing no more than 55 pounds. It has an adequate yet compact running area of 38 inches by 16 inches and sits at a 45-degree angle. With speed settings ranging from 0.5 MPH to 7.5 MPH, you can use this unit for a nice leisurely walk to a full-on run and anything in between.
The best thing about the Minipacer is that it is equipped with pre-set exercise programs available on the attached computer. This feature will help dog owners make the most out of this equipment. It also has wall panels to help sustain your dog’s mental focus, so he won’t fall off or get distracted by what he sees sideways.
The manufacturer claims that the Minipacer has the lowest price and yet has the highest value among all dog treadmills within its price range. Reviewers on Amazon also rave about the convenience of this unit. They particularly like its collapsible design, which saves them both time and floor space.
LF 3.1 Dog Pacer Treadmill for Large Dogs
This unit comes from the same company as mentioned previously. With a tread area of 71 inches by 16.5 inches, this model is an incredible exercise option for a range of large dog breeds. It boasts of an ultra-efficient 1.5-HP motor, making it possible to cater to dogs weighing up to 180 pounds. Thankfully, the machine works quietly despite its powerful motor.
The LF 3.1 is built with heavy-duty carbon steel, which gives it a fair amount of durability. This model also features a compact and collapsible design, so you can fold it neatly for storage. Just like the Minipacer, this model has wall panels for your dog’s psychological assurance and your peace of mind. Likewise, it features a range of pre-programmed workout modes available via the attached computer.
If you don’t want to break the bank by getting a treadmill for a large dog, the dogPACER LF 3.1 DOG PACER is the way to go.
pros
- Both models are built with heavy-duty carbon steel
- Equipped with a powerful motor, which is rated at 1.5 HP
- Minipacer Treadmill has a running area of 38” x 16”
- LF 3.1 DOG PACER has a running area of 71” x 16.5”
- LF 3.1 DOG PACER has an incline option between 5 – 9 degrees
- Includes wall panels to keep your dog on track
- Speed options range from 0.5 MPH to 7.5 MPH
- Equipped with pre-set exercise programs
- Great value at an affordable price
- Exhibits a collapsible and portable design
- Whisper-quiet operation
cons
- Exposure to moisture causes carbon steel to rust and corrode
2. GoPlus Dog Treadmill
The GoPlus Dog Treadmill is perfect for big, agile dogs that need to burn off some aggression. This treadmill has detachable and waterproof walls that are made of 600-D Oxford cloth. Thereby, preventing your dog from looking around, so he can focus on the task at hand. There is also a strong load-bearing crossbar, in which you tie your dog’s leash to keep him on track.
This treadmill runs on either manual or wireless control. There are multiple speed settings, modes, and timing functions to suit every dog. A 1.4” LCD screen shows how many calories your dog has burned, as well as how much time and distance he has covered.
Moreover, it provides a running area of 14 inches by 38 inches. Initially, it has a low running platform to provide ease of access, but there are three heights to choose from to ensure it meets the needs of every dog.
The safety of your canine buddy is assured by the Emergency Stop button on the remote control. The treadmill is also equipped with a Safety Key, which causes the machine to stop when triggered by your dog.
Furthermore, it is a pleasure to know that despite the bulkiness of the machine, movement and storage are made easy, thanks to its built-in wheels.
pros
- Made with heavy-duty ABS and iron pipe
- For a large dog weighing up to 200 lbs.
- Runs on either manual or wireless control
- Speed options range from 0.5 MPH to 7.5 MPH
- Complete with 12 pre-set programs and multiple modes
- 600-D Oxford fabric panels help retain your dog’s concentration
- Includes a crossbar, in which you tie your dog’s leash
- Comes with a Safety Key and an Emergency Stop button
- Equipped with built-in wheels for portability
- The base is adjustable to three heights
cons
- Running area might be too narrow for obese or bulky dogs
3. DogTread Small Dog Treadmill
You don’t have to postpone a workout because the weather is not cooperating. The DogTread Small Dog Treadmill can provide an exercise outlet for your pooch whether it rains or shines. It has a weight capacity of 30 pounds, as well as a running area of 30 inches by 40 inches.
As you can see, the treadmill lacks holes, seams, mesh or fabric panels, where a clumsy puppy might get its small paw stuck. It has a compact design complete with wheels for convenient storage.
The DogTread has two little wells at the front to hold treats. Having this feature provides you a convenient way of keeping your pooch motivated, especially when you are still starting out. The maximum speed setting for this treadmill is 5 MPH, which is good enough for a small rambunctious pooch.
You can use this treadmill flat or at an incline. The low-training fence makes initial training more secure and comfortable, while the flip-bar incline amplifies the training intensity as needed to mimic outdoor conditions. The LCD console will show the speed, time, and distance covered for each workout.
One of the most outstanding features of the DogTread is its shock-absorbing platform. This feature is particularly beneficial for arthritic, convalescing, and senior dogs, as it reduces the stress on joints, as compared to running on concrete or asphalt roads.
This treadmill, however, is not an option for those without some extra cash to spend, as it almost costs twice the price of product no. 1.
pros
- Suitable for a puppy or a small breed that weighs up to 30 lbs.
- Provides low profile walking and running platform
- Shock-absorbing running area reduces the stress on joints
- Includes treat holders to keep your dog motivated
- Equipped with pre-programmed workout sessions
- Comes with a remote control
- Can be used flat or inclined
- Requires minimal assembly only
cons
- Expensive
4. GoPet Treadmills Petrun 700 for Small - Medium Dogs
The GoPet Treadmill works perfectly well for dogs weighing no more than 132 pounds. It has a running area of 52 inches by 16 inches. This treadmill has a low-running platform, which makes it suitable for dogs with short stubby legs. As for the speed, you can choose between 0.6 MPH and 7.5 MPH.
We particularly like the guardrails of this model, as it gives you a good view of your pooch while it prevents your dog from hopping off. Don’t worry that your dog might stumble if he glances at you since there is a dog chain holder and an Emergency Safety Stop. All you need is to press that button from your remote control.
GoPet Treadmill Petrun 725 for Large Dogs (<176lbs)
The GoPet Treadmill Petrun 725 is the large version of the previous model. With a long stride area of 71 inches, it is great exercise equipment for a range of larger breeds weighing no more than 176 pounds. This model has an incline adjustment option and a good range of speeds to keep your dog challenged.
Overall, the GoPet Treadmill Petrun 725 is a straightforward treadmill for large dogs. Our only gripe is that it lacks wheels that could have made storage easier for dog owners, especially for those who live in small apartments.
pros
- Comes with a remote control
- Petrun 700 has speed options ranging from 0.6 MPH – 7.5 MPH
- Petrun 725 has speed options ranging from 1 MPH – 10 MPH
- Includes an incline adjustment option
- Operates quietly
- Safety guardrails prevent dogs from hopping off
- Includes a dog chain holder and an Emergency Safety Stop
cons
- Petrun 725 may not be suitable for apartment living because it is bulky and lacks wheels for portability
5. iCare-Pet Pet Treadmill
The iCare-Pet Pet Treadmill is designed to promote exercise for medium to large dogs. This treadmill is one of the easiest ones to use, as it lacks fancy features that some laid back dog owners prefer. Nevertheless, it still has the convenience of a remote control. As for the speed, it ranges from 1 – 10 KM/H. iCare Pet has provided minimal descriptions about their product but they encourage their buyers to contact them for questions. Not to mention, they offer a 12-month warranty for their product and so, they seem to be pretty confident about the quality of this treadmill.
pros
- Comes with a remote control
- Speed ranges from 1 – 10 KM/H
- Waterproof
- The manufacturer offers a 12-month warranty
- Includes an LED display for showing time and distance covered
- Side rails are collapsible
- Has wheels for portability
cons
- Not much is disclosed about the product
6. GoPet Treadwheel ToySmall (<25lbs)
The GoPet Treadwheel is basically a hamster wheel, but for dogs. Just like a good ole hamster wheel, this equipment relies solely on your dog’s movements. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about eye-watering electric bills, and you can place it almost anywhere in your house.
The Treadmill can accommodate dogs weighing not more than 25 pounds. It comes with a door that you can snap onto the front to keep your pooch on the wheel.
To prevent your dog from going too fast and spinning out of control, the manufacturer made sure to add a tension brake, so your pooch runs at a safe speed. Adding to that, the Treadwheel’s surface is padded and durable.
Overall, the GoPet Treadwheel features a pretty simple concept, but it has some features that set it apart from a regular hamster wheel. Nevertheless, we still find its price a little too much for something that doesn’t use electricity. If your dog is claustrophobic or anxious, we doubt this will work.
pros
- For a puppy or a dog weighing no more than 25 lbs.
- The running area measures 40” x 12”
- Comes with a padded surface and a tension brake
cons
- Not suitable for anxious or claustrophobic dogs
- Overpriced
Key Factors that Make a Good Dog Treadmill
Just like any of the products you buy for yourself, you need to consider a few factors while you are shopping for a dog treadmill to ensure you get more bang for your buck.
Size
We are both referring to the physical size of your dog and of the machine. The treadmill’s conveyor belt should be long and wide enough for your dog to walk on. Preferably, it should be at least twice the length of your dog’s body. Your dog can stride safely and comfortably if his movements are not constricted. Otherwise, it will cause him to stagger or even fall off the treadmill.
For small pooches, you don’t want a treadmill that is so large that it intimidates your dog. You will also want to think about the unnecessary space it occupies. If possible, choose a dog treadmill that you can quickly fold up and tuck away.
Weight Capacity
Before you decide on buying a dog treadmill, you should first check out the unit’s maximum weight capacity. A dog treadmill won’t be able to run efficiently if your dog’s weight exceeds the specified capacity. Your dog could only break the machine over time. Conversely, your dog might find the treadmill too fast if his weight doesn’t even meet the minimum weight capacity. He could injure himself if he can’t have a good grip on the conveyor belt.
Speed
Check out the dog treadmill’s maximum and minimum speed settings. Your dog’s “need for speed” depends on what breed he is. German Shepherds, Border Collies, Siberian Huskies, and other large working breeds have high energy levels. Besides, they tend to have powerful legs and lean muscles that support their frame. These features enable them to take advantage of a treadmill’s high-speed options.
Take note that not all large dogs have the same energy levels. Other breeds may run slowly because of their body structure. Therefore, you don’t have to choose a high-speed model if your dog is not a serious runner. These include brachycephalic and short-legged pooches.
Incline
If you want your chubby pooch to lose pounds fast, you may want to consider a dog treadmill with an incline. Athletic canines will also appreciate the challenge it gives. Just make sure it isn’t too steep for a small breed.
Walls
Walls are an important feature, as it keeps your dog from falling off the sides.
Conclusion
Having a dog treadmill means you no longer have to compromise your dog’s health if you come home tired as a koala or when it is raining cats and dogs. You can always have a temperature-controlled environment where your pooch can burn off all that pent-up energy. While a dog treadmill is a great investment, it should never replace the good ole habit of taking your dog out for a walk, especially if you have a dog who is born to hike.