The Best Treadmills for Dogs

Last Updated on March 29, 2023

While treadmills are no substitute for outdoor walks, there’s a time and a place when treadmills for dogs are an excellent option. Today, I’m going to help you understand when a treadmill will make a good supplement to your dog’s exercise routine and help you pick out a treadmill for your dog.

I vividly remember the first time I considered a dog treadmill.

If I’m being honest, the idea of having a treadmill specifically for my dog seemed a little too fancy-pants, even for me, especially since going for a walk outside was free.

But when my husband had to leave the country for work and I was left to juggle a 60-hour workweek plus a high-energy Sheepadoodle who needed lots of exercise, getting a dog treadmill suddenly didn’t seem like a silly idea.

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The Best Dog Treadmills

Many dog owners wonder, “can’t I just use a human treadmill for my dog?” and the answer is…yes, dogs can use human treadmills as long as your dog fits properly on the running surface!

Usually, smaller dogs are best on human treadmills, whereas large dogs need to use a dog treadmill. To determine the treadmill length, make sure the running surface is at least 1/3 longer than your dog. This will give your dog enough room to run safely! 

Here are the best treadmills for dogs to help you with your search.

PS I’ve included treadmills from Pet Pro Supply Co, a pet supply company located in the United States that serves police K9, groomers, vets and other dog professionals. I’ve also included pet treadmills from Amazon.

1. GoPet Petrun PR725 (Top Pick)

The best treadmill for dogs is the GoPet Petrun Dog Treadmill.

There are so many things we love about this dog treadmill.

First, many dog treadmills aren't suitable for really heavy dogs. GoPet's dog treadmill, however, can handle dogs up to 176 lbs (79 kilograms).

Another reason why GoPet has won the best dog treadmill is the side panels to keep your dog running straight and how quiet this treadmill is compared to others. There is also an emergency stop mechanism which is paramount to have on dog treadmills.

Pros

• Incline available
• Quiet as to not scare off timid dogs
• Varying speed increments: 0.6-10 MPH (1-16 KMH)
• Foldable for easy storage
• Remote/manual control
• Emergency stop
• Eyelets to attach a toy at the front to keep your dog interested and engaged
• Metal enclosure to act as a visual clue to remind dogs to run straight

Cons

• Not for giant dog breeds over 176 lbs

Who is this Dog Treadmill Good For?

• Dogs who are spooked by loud noises (if your dog doesn't like the vacuum, you will want to get a quieter treadmill, such as this one)
• Apartment dwellers who need a foldable treadmill
• Side panels for dogs who tend to get easily distracted

View prices here

2. GoPet Petrun PR720F

If you're searching for something a bit simpler, consider checking out GoPet's Petrun PR720F --- a comparable model to GoPet's PR725 that has fewer features but doesn't skimp on quality.

The PR720F dog treadmill is for dogs up to 135 lbs but doesn't come with metal enclosures, which may not be ideal if your dog gets easily distracted.

Pros

• Incline available
• Quiet as to not scare off timid dogs
• Varying speed settings: 0.6-10 MPH (1-16 KMH)
• Foldable for easy storage
• Remote/manual control
• Emergency stop
• Eyelets to attach a toy at the front to keep your dog interested and engaged

Cons

• No enclosure
• Not for dog breeds over 135 lbs

Who is this Dog Treadmill for?

This treadmill works well for someone who has a focused dog that won't need a visual enclosure to keep them on track.

View prices here

3. Dogtread Small Dog Treadmill

If your small dog gets spooked by loud sounds, you'll want to buy a quiet dog treadmill. The Dogtread dog treadmill is designed for small dogs in mind so your tiny pooch can enjoy an indoor workout.

The outside-facing LCD console on this dog treadmill gives you the ability to set the speed, distance and time for each workout. Your pooch will also appreciate the treat console built into this treadmill, which is perfect for the training stages! Just make sure you don't put water in the treat holder---it's for treats only.

Another benefit of this dog treadmill is how it tips up on its nose for storage. If you live in a small space, you don't need to worry about this treadmill taking up much space.

Pros

• Quiet
• LCD console
• Treat holder
• Manual incline options
• Compact for storage

Cons

• Not suitable for large dogs

Who is This Dog Treadmill For?

This dog treadmill is perfect for people with small dogs that want a quiet and compact treadmill for their dog to use.

4. GoPet Treadwheel CS6020 

Treadwheels are the perfect solution for those who are away from the home but would like to give their dogs the opportunity to exercise on their own.

Similar to a hamster wheel (except much larger) the treadwheel is a dog-powered treadmill that your dog can use on their own.

As treadwheels are not electric, it will be powered by your dog and your dog is able to go at the speed which they prefer.

Pros

• your dog can use it when you aren't home
• not electric
• comes in three different sizes: small, medium and large (see below):

Cons

• Smaller living spaces might find storing the treadwheel challenging

Who is This Dog Treadwheel for?

This treadwheel is a great choice if your dog hates noises and isn't too keen on trying a treadmill.

View prices here

Benefits of Dog Treadmills

Just like I used to think dog treadmills were ridiculous, you might think the same.

But once you realize how many great benefits treadmills have for our canine friends, you’ll likely change your tune (as I did).

1. Exercise

The first and obvious benefit of using a pet treadmill is they provide a unique way for your dog to exercise and stay fit.

Treadmills are useful when:

• unideal weather conditions; it’s too cold or hot to exercise your dog for long periods of time outside
• a walk isn’t feasible (i.e. when my husband left, I was waking up at 4:30 a.m. to take my dog on her walks and I didn’t feel safe being out at that time in the dark)

If you're a dog owner who can relate to the above points, keep reading.

2. Improved Training

High-energy dogs can have difficulties staying focused, thus, training can be challenging.

You can use dog treadmills to tire your dog out; tired dogs aren’t as wound up and can often times focus better after they have some activity.

3. Controlled Environment

Some dogs absolutely love to run. But unless you have a safe space to let your dog run in, it can be a little unsetting at times.

Dog parks aren’t always safe and if your dog’s recall skill isn’t the best, it can be nerve-wracking to let your dog off-leash.

With a treadmill, you can save the on-leash walks for outside and give your dog the chance at a nice indoor run where they can avoid potentially dangerous hazards.

4. Improved Health

Doggie treadmills can also help your dog lose weight and get into better shape. Overweight dogs can face a variety of health issues including joint pain, digestive disorders and diabetes. It's always a good idea to keep your dog at an optimal weight (you can call your vet and ask what weight is ideal for your dog).

Safety Tips For Using a Dog Treadmill

Before using treadmills for dogs, you need to be aware of some safety tips. Injuries or even death can result if you aren't taking proper precautions. While it's not illegal to put a dog on a treadmill, there are certain precautions you must take to keep your dog safe.

Get the Right Length

The length of your treadmill is highly important. A dog who can't fit comfortably on their treadmill is more likely to get injured, which is why a human treadmill isn't always the best fit (literally) for your pooch.

Most dog treadmills advise the running surface to be at least 1/3 longer than your dog.

Never Leave Your Dog Unattended

First, never leave your dog unattended on a treadmill.

Ever.

The only exception is the treadwheel on our list because it had been designed for dogs to run on their own pace, safely while unattended.

Putting your dog on a treadmill doesn't mean you get free time. You must supervise your pooch for the entire duration.

The treadwheel, on the other hand, is a bit different as the dog is able to come and go freely. If you'd like to give your pup the ability to exercise when you aren't home, a treadwheel is the best option.

Work Your Way Up

You can't expect your pooch to "get it" the moment they step on the treadmill. It may take days, weeks or even a few months before your dog understands what their role on the treadmill is.

This video explains exactly how to train your dog on a treadmill so they are confident and exciting to use their new toy!

Don't Tie Your Dog to a Treadmill

If your dog suddenly stops or something happens and they are tied to a moving treadmill they could get seriously injured (or worse). Never ever tie your dog to a treadmill.

Sprinting isn't the End Goal

Your dog may love to sprint but some may be happy getting a fast walk in on the treadmill.

Sprinting isn't necessarily the end goal for your dog. Before introducing any new rigorous activity, it's good to consult a professional trainer or a vet.

Should You Buy a Dog Treadmill?

Getting a dog treadmill is a great way to exercise and stimulate our furry best friends!

Remember: nothing can substitute outdoor walks. A dog treadmill should not replace outdoor activity but can be the perfect supplemental activity for high-energy dogs or dogs that need a low-impact way to exercise.

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