Best Self Propelled Dog Treadmills

Jul. 28, 2023 | Best Dog Supplies, Equipment

The best overall self propelled dog treadmill is the dogPACER Treadmill 3.1.

best self propelled dog treadmill

This is my review of the best self-propelled dog treadmills.

We love our dogs and want them to live their best, fit life….even when we’re short on time and the weather is crappy. 

The best dog treadmills help us pawrents give our dogs exercise when needed, regardless of what mother nature has in store outside or if we work late. 

Like people, not all dogs are the same, and fitness goals vary from pooch to pooch. 

So, I have spent hours researching dog treadmills and have compiled a list of the best self-propelled dog treadmills to help you find the one that’s right for your furry BFF. 

If you’re looking for the best all-around dog treadmill, the dogPACER Treadmill 3.1 is the best overall choice.

But every four-legged family member is different. So I’ve also reviewed the best dog treadmills in every category.

Let’s get started.

Our Best Self Propelled Dog Treadmills

1. dogPACER Treadmill 3.1 (Best Overall)

2. GoPet Petrun PR725 (Best for Large Dogs)

3. dogPACER Minipacer Treadmill (Best for Small Dogs)

4. Goplus Dog Treadmill (Best Budget-Friendly Option)

The Best Self-Propelled Dog Treadmills Reviewed

Please always consult with a veterinarian before embarking on a fitness journey with your pooch. 

dogPACER3.1

Whether you have a small or large dog, this treadmill should be able to accommodate your pooch. 

The dogPACER 3.1 can hold dogs up to 179 lbs.

At 84.4 lbs it’s fairly lightweight, for a treadmill. It collapses down for storage or transport. 

The pace is adjustable between 0.5 and 7.5 mph in 0.1 increments. This allows you to gradually acclimatize your pooch to the treadmill and offers a decent range of exercise options.

The incline has four adjustable settings between 5 and 9 degrees. These must be adjusted manually, so you need to plan ahead of time if you want to incorporate incline into your dog’s exercise program. 

As well, there is a lifetime warranty for the frame and a manufacturer’s warranty on parts and craftsmanship. 

So if there is a defect with the treadmill, or it arrives damaged from shipping, you can rest assured that you will be covered. 

 

Size Weight Capacity Speed Range
76.77″ L x 27.16″ W x 46.18″ H 1 – 179lbs 0.5- 7.5 mph

 

gopet dog treadmill
Go Pet Petrun Dog Treadmill

Safety first!

This treadmill comes with a metal enclosure to help your dog run straight and keep them from falling off the sides of the treadmill. 

Designed with large dogs in mind, this treadmill is perfect for any large breeds who may be apartment dwellers or for those rainy days when running outside is not preferred.

This is a large treadmill but it has an auto-fold design for easy storage. So you can keep it out of the way when not in use. With the attached wheels, you can easily move it into a closet or tuck it up against the wall.

A good rule of thumb when picking the correct treadmill size for your pooch is to make sure the running surface is at least ⅓ longer than your dog. This is the optimal size allowing for a proper range of motion. 

Size Weight Capacity Speed Range
90″ L x 24″ W x 16″ H up to 176lbs 1- 16 km/h

 

dogPACER mini treadmill
dogPACER mini treadmill

This compact and portable treadmill is perfect for small dogs living in small spaces.

With its quiet motor, this treadmill is great for dogs who may be nervous or get startled by loud noises.

Just because it’s small, does not mean it’s cheaply made. The dogPACER mini is made from carbon steel and can support dogs up to 55 lbs. 

It also includes a lifetime warranty for the frame and a manufacturer’s warranty on parts and craftsmanship.

High-quality materials with excellent warranties mean that your little pooch will be able to enjoy this treadmill for many years to come. 

Size Weight Capacity Speed Range
42″ L x 28.5″ W x 21.5″ H  55 lbs 0.5 – 7.5 mph

 

Best Budget Friendly Option: Goplus Dog Treadmill

goplus pet treadmill
Goplus dog treadmill

This is a great no-frills budget-friendly treadmill for your dog.

It offers enough features so that your dog will still get a great workout, but not your wallet!

As well, it comes with great safety features such as a safety key and emergency stop function, so your pooch can enjoy a good, safe run. 

Although the maximum weight capacity is 200 lbs for this treadmill, a common issue with consumers was that it was too small for their dogs.

Keep in mind that the running surface is more accurate sizing than the weight capacity for dog treadmills.

The running surface should be at least ⅓ longer than your dog. 

Size Weight Capacity Speed Range
124.46 L x 53.34 W x 71.12 cm H  up to 200 lbs up to 7.5 mph

 

Buying Guide-How to Choose A Self Propelled Dog Treadmill

After you’ve determined that your dog could benefit from a treadmill, you will need to consider their individual needs.

Not all dogs are alike and it’s important to pick the treadmill that not only best supports their goals, but also functions well in your home. 

Size

The most important feature to check out on any dog treadmill is the running area. If the running area is too small, your dog won’t be able to use it.

Please make sure it is at least ⅓ longer than your dog. This will allow sufficient room for your dog to run.

Dog treadmills are big, so shipping them back to the manufacturer because you picked the wrong size is going to be a giant pain in the butt.

Measure twice and order once!

Safety

Obviously, safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to exercise equipment, especially for your dog.

Most treadmills have barriers on either side to help prevent your pooch from falling off the side of the treadmill.

An emergency key and stop button are also important safety features to look for in a treadmill.

This way if your pooch forgets to run, the emergency key will be pulled and the treadmill will stop.

Even with these safety features, keep an eye on your dog while using the treadmill just to be on the safe side. 

Portability/Storage

A dog treadmill takes up a lot more space than a tennis ball, so it’s important that there are features that help make them easier to move and store.

For example, a folding treadmill with wheels is easier to move and takes up less space than one that is stationary.  

Additional Features

Your purpose for wanting a treadmill for your dog will determine what features are important to you.

For example, if you’re looking for a treadmill for a casual workout when the weather is bad, almost any of the treadmills listed here would be a good choice.

However, if your pooch loves to run and you’re training for agility, you might want to look for a treadmill that has higher speed settings. 

Verdict

Your furry friend needs the right amount of exercise to support their active life. 

For indoor training, the dogPACER Treadmill 3.1 is the best all-around treadmill for your pooch. 

DogPACER is a high-quality brand with good customer service, so your pooch should enjoy their treadmill for years to come!

Always consult with a veterinarian before embarking on a fitness journey with your pooch. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Are Dog Treadmills Used For?

Dog treadmills are used for a variety of reasons, such as:

  • Helping dogs get the proper amount of exercise if they live in climates that don’t allow for sufficient outdoor time.
  • Helping owners who don’t have sufficient time for regular walks.
  • Helping owners who are suffering from a physical impairment.
  • Helping with physical therapy if your dog is recovering from an injury.
What’s The Difference Between a Regular Treadmill And A Dog Treadmill?

Dog treadmills have features that are specific to dogs.

For example, they are usually wider, have barriers on both sides and have an area to clip into or tie a leash.

They also have different speed ranges and weight capacities specific to canines. 

Do Dog Treadmills Work?

Yes, if the purpose of using a dog treadmill is to supplement outdoor activity.

Treadmill workouts can help prevent canine obesity for those dogs who cannot get sufficient time outside each day.

Are Dog Treadmills Safe?

Yes, as long as they are used correctly under human supervision.

How Long Should A Dog Run On A Treadmill?

Twenty minutes maximum at one time.

This is just a general guideline.

Monitor your pooch to make sure they are comfortable all the way through their routine.

Take your time to work your way up to a 20-minute exercise session as that amount of steady walking or running could be overwhelming to your pooch.

How Do I Train My Dog To Use A Treadmill?

Lots of treats!

Reward your pooch when they are near the treadmill, walk on it, sniff it, and reward all positive experiences they have with the treadmill.

Once they are comfortable on the treadmill, start with short sessions of just a few minutes at a time.

Keep rewarding! If your dog is not comfortable with the treadmill being on, take a step back and keep rewarding them for just checking it out.

With time, and consistent effort,  your pooch will be ready for a workout.

Kathy Burley

Kathy Burley

Author

Kathy enjoys hiking with her dog, Ollie, and the rest of her dog walking pack. As well as researching and creating articles to help you make informed decisions that are BEST for your dog.

kathy@thelocalbarker.com

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