The Best Dog Treadmills in 2024
Exercise is one of the most important factors in a dog’s health. It’s also one of the most neglected aspects of dog-ownership. Not only does exercise burn energy and prevent weight gain, it also provides valuable mental stimulation. Dogs that don’t get enough exercise are bored and harder to train. Exercise is that important!
Under-exercised dogs can happen for many reasons. Maybe the owner lives in an apartment or works full-time. Maybe it’s the middle of winter. Whatever the reason is, dog treadmills can provide the exercise a dog needs to live a happy life. They can also be expensive, so choosing the right treadmill is extremely important. Luckily, we’ve done all the hard work for you! Here are five of the best dog treadmills available for dog-lovers looking to buy one for the first time.
Our Top 5 List
Last update on 2024-10-01 at 08:16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Goplus Pet Running Machine
For owners who have never bought a dog treadmill before, the GoPlus running machine is a great bare-bones product with everything you need to get you started. It’s easy to assemble with a 38-inch long belt, providing an endless running surface for small to medium dogs. This treadmill comes with 12 separate modes with multiple speeds and timing options, so it can challenge even the most athletic pets. Detachable side panels keep your dog focused on his assigned task, and built-in wheels help you roll the treadmill away when the task is finished.
The treadmill is controlled by an LCD screen, but you can also do it with remote control. Among its normal features, the remote control is equipped with an emergency stop button. The treadmill also has a safety key that stops the treadmill once it’s pulled out. Overall, the GoPlus dog treadmill is effective, convenient, and safe, making it one of the best options for the indecisive buyer.
Takeaways
- Affordable
- Assembles in 20 min
- Remote Control
- Safety key
- Emergency stop button
- Removable side panels
- Built-in wheels
2. DogPacer Minipacer
No products found.
This treadmill from DogPacer is a fantastic choice for people who want something portable. Weighing under 50 pounds, the Minipacer collapses when not in use for easy storage and transport. In spite of its lightweight design, it has enough features to make it one of the most powerful dog treadmills available.
The Minipacer has a small incline of 4.5 degrees, and its speed ranges from 0.5 to 7.5 miles per hour, adjustable by increments of 0.1 MPH. It also comes with a computer pre-loaded with multiple fitness and exercise programs. As a dog treadmill, the Minipacer has enough bells and whistles to stand up against the other treadmills on this list, but it’ll be especially useful to people who don’t have as much living space to spare.
Takeaways
- Easy to assemble
- Collapsible
- Removable side panels
- Lightweight
- Pre-set exercise programs
3. Go Pet Petrun Pr700
The Petrun treadmill is a great, mid-range buy for anyone with small breed dogs. The low running platform makes this accessible for short-statured breeds like dachshunds, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas. The speed ranges from 0.6 to 7.4 MPH, conveniently adjustable via manual or remote control.
This machine is especially notable for its quiet motor, which may appeal to apartment-dwellers with neighbors in close proximity. For safety considerations, there is an emergency stop button on the remote control and an additional button on the side of the machine itself. As far as aesthetics go, most dog treadmills are eyesores, but the Petrun treadmill is a rare exception. Its minimalistic design and neutral, gray tone makes it easy to match this treadmill to any decor.
Takeaways
- Quiet motor
- Sleek, compact design
- Remote control
- Emergency stop buttons
- Low platform
- Adjustable speed
4. GoPet Treadwheel for Dogs
If you’re worried about the burden of a dog treadmill on your energy usage, the GOPET Treadwheel is the perfect solution. Even though this product is electricity-free and manually powered, the wheel design provides the same endless-running experience of a treadmill. However, it’s safe to leave a pet unattended while using this product, which isn’t the case with treadmills. A training door and running mat are included, so dogs feel both comfortable and safe while running inside the wheel.
The components used to make this product are mildew and UV-resistant, making this appropriate for both indoor and outdoor use. The Treadwheel is ideal for pet-owners who are forced to leave their small dogs alone for most of the day.
Takeaways
- Electricity-free
- Dog sets its own pace
- Mildew-free
- UV-resistant
- Running mat
5. GoPet Small & Medium Treadwheel
Finding the right balance of affordability and performance can be difficult when shopping for a dog treadmill. With that said, it doesn’t get much better than this GOPET treadmill, which packs a lot of features and power inside such a small machine. The speed is adjustable via manual controls or remote control, and the motor is just as powerful as it is quiet. The pace transitions smoothly between leisurely walking to sprinting, making this treadmill appropriate for dogs of every level.
The addition of foldable bars and built-in wheels add a degree of portability, making this one of the most convenient and well-rounded treadmill models on the market. It may be pricier than the other options on this list, but the benefits are obviously well-worth the high cost.
Takeaways
- Foldable
- Remote control
- Built-in wheels
- Emergency safety buttons
- Quiet motor
- Speed up to 7.5 MPH
Verdict & Review
Goplus Dog Treadmill
Pros
- Remote control
- Assembles in 20 min
- Safety key
- Emergency stop button
- Built-in wheels
Cons
- We have encountered no cons
Although you can’t go wrong with any of the above options, there is one clear winner. The Goplus treadmills are powerful with added features for convenience, and all for an affordable price. That’s why the Goplus is a no-brainer. It is the most affordable treadmill on this list, yet it comes fully loaded with all the essentials. A remote control and emergency stop functions provide safety and convenience, while its easy assembly and built-in wheels make it useable for all pet-owners. Most importantly, it comes with a huge variety of speed settings. No matter your dog’s fitness level, rest assured he will get the exercise he needs with the Goplus dog treadmill.
Buying Guide
Does My Dog Really Need a Treadmill?
The short answer is yes. The long answer is…probably. Most dogs actually don’t get their daily recommended dose of exercise for reasons that can include some of the following:
- The owner has limited mobility
- Owner works full time
- Home lacks enclosed backyard
- Harsh weather
- The dog has extremely high energy
For all the above circumstances, a dog treadmill is a great way to bridge the gap between the exercise your pet needs and the exercise he actually gets. Dog treadmills are also highly recommended for pets undergoing physical therapy.
Tips for Buying
Obviously, dog treadmills aren’t cheap. It’s an investment in your dog’s health and a purchase you’ll hopefully make just once in your pet’s lifetime. You’ll want to buy a treadmill that fits into your lifestyle as well as your pet’s, ideally without breaking the bank. Not every treadmill suits every lifestyle, so here are some things to think about as you make your decision:
Is Assembly Required?
And if so, how much? Some treadmills come pre-assembled. Some might require snapping in a bar or two, while others might call for power tools and an extra helping hand. Remember that moving the treadmill around is also part of its assembly. Before clicking “buy,” consider your own ability in reading diagrams, assembling furniture, and lifting heavy objects.
What Are My Dog’s Needs?
As mentioned before, dogs can benefit from treadmills for a variety of reasons. Whether they need to lose weight or burn energy will determine the types of features that they’ll need. You should also keep your dog’s comfort in mind as you buy your next dog treadmill. Shy or skittish dogs may not enjoy running on a treadmill with a loud motor, and large treadmills might be difficult for senior or disabled dogs to mount.
Do I Have Time to Supervise My Dog?
Dogs should never be left alone unsupervised on a motorized treadmill. A treadmill with a remote control can make it very easy for owners to sit comfortably as they supervise their dog’s exercise. If you can imagine this being an issue for you, an exercise wheel like the GoPet Treadwheel might provide the perfect solution.
Do I Have the Space for a Treadmill?
Treadmills take up a lot of room, even ones made for small dogs. If space is a challenge for you, look for a collapsible treadmill that you can store in a closet or under the bed.
Safety Tips
- Use treats and gentle praise when introducing your dog to a new treadmill.
- Always start on the lowest possible speed setting.
- Don’t tie your dog to the treadmill.
- Never leave your dog unattended on the treadmill.
- Don’t over-exercise your dog. If you’re unsure about how much exercise your dog needs, consult a veterinarian.
- Regularly clean your treadmill to keep it in safe operating condition. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for details on how to do this.
If your dog isn’t getting the exercise he needs, it might be time to introduce him to a dog treadmill. Like food and water, exercise is a vital ingredient in a dog’s well-being, and all responsible pet-owners must take it into account when petcare is considered. Dog treadmills are an easy way to get your dog the exercise he needs at the touch of a button. There are many treadmills on the market today. If you’re unsure, you can’t go wrong with any of the above five options.
We are the Pet Dog Pals, a group of avid pet owners, bloggers, product testers, and writers for all your canine needs! We own a collective 16 dogs and 21 cats to help us test and review pet products. Our top lists and tips come from experience to help you be the best dog owner you can be!