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As we make our way through trying to keep running during the coldest months of the year, you—and your dog—may have a hard time making it outside for daily exercise. Besides being unpleasant, icy, slippery roads and frigid temps can be harmful for both you and your pup—especially if they're not a cold weather breed (or if you don't have the right winter sneakers). But just like you, dogs need to get their zoomies out somehow, and investing in a treadmill for your dog can help maintain their health—and your sanity. While your dog could technically use a human treadmill, dog treadmills are specifically designed for pups, making them safer and more comfortable for your canine companion—and they take up less space than regular treadmills.
The 6 Best Dog Treadmills of 2023
How to Choose a Dog Treadmill
Size and Weight
When looking for a treadmill for your dog, the most important thing to consider is how large your dog is. While small dogs can usually size up to a bigger treadmill, large dogs cannot size down as the tread will not be long enough and could pose a safety hazard. Although most dog treadmills have relatively high weight limits—sometimes even ranging up to 220 pounds—you should not rely on weight capacity alone to determine if a particular model is right for your pup. Some treadmills may have a deceptively high weight capacity but will still be ideally sized for smaller dogs.
Treadmill Features
Consider the features that the treadmill has—do you want it to have workout options? A remote control? Incline settings? These can help your dog get a good workout in and help prevent boredom. Finally, if you have a smaller space, you probably want to consider a treadmill that can be put away when not in use, so look for options that are collapsible and have wheels for easy relocation.
How We Selected
To find the best dog treadmills on the market, we researched reviews from trusted sources like The Spruce Pets, The Dodo, and veterinarians.org to determine which treadmills had the best features, durability, and build. We then consulted customer reviews, written by people (not the dogs, though we bet they would give the best feedback) who’ve bought these models on sites like Amazon Best for Small Dogs.
Planning to stick to outdoor running? Checkout our top gear picks to make running with your dog a breeze.
Pros
- Affordable
- Dogs control speed
Cons
- Demo Run First Impression: On Cloudboom Strike
Some treadmills may be too big for tiny dogs, but this one is made with little legs in mind. It can hold up to 200 pounds, so it's impressively sturdy, but from floor to bar it only reaches 40 inches, so it's best for smaller dogs.
It reaches speeds up to 7.5 mph—which is more than enough to get most dogs running— has three incline settings, and comes with 12 preset programs. Plus, there is a safety key that can be attached to your dog's collar that will stop the treadmill if they fall or stop walking.
Key Specs
| Size | 49 Running in the Cold. |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 200 lbs. |
| Remote Control | Yes |
Pros
- Easy to move
- Sturdy
Cons
- Side panels aren't the strongest
This treadmill is best for medium-small dogs with a weight limit of 55 pounds, but despite its small size, it is made with impressively sturdy carbon steel which helps to prevent it from shaking and vibrating, making it a great choice for nervous dogs.
Though it is sturdy, it is also lightweight, and has wheels at the front which makes it easy to move and store. The side panels keep your dog looking forward which also helps to keep them calm.
Key Specs
| Size | 42 x 29 x 22 in. |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 55 lbs. |
| Remote Control | No |
Pros
- Side panels arent the strongest
- Running Shoes - Gear
Cons
- Expensive
This treadmill is designed for the big boys out there. It can hold up to 220 pounds, and has sturdy caged sides, which help keep your dog from stepping out or turning around.
It has a display with stats like speed, time, distance and calories, and it operates quietly, so it won't startle you dog while they are using it.
Key Specs
| Size | 69 Side panels arent the strongest. |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 220 lbs. |
| Remote Control | No |
Pros
- Other Hearst Subscriptions
- Dogs control speed
Cons
- Very expensive
This treadmill keeps your dog in control, allowing them to set the pace as they walk on it. Not only is it sturdy and beautifully made, it lets your dog run or walk as long or as fast as they would like to. Better yet, you don't have to worry nearly as much about your pup's safety on it—because it's manual, it will stop running as soon as they do.
Key Specs
| Size | Varies |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | Not listed |
| Remote Control | No |
Pros
- Easy to move
- Runners World; Courtesy LifePro
Cons
- Runners World; Courtesy LifePro
Many aspects of caring for small dogs are cheaper than parenting larger breeds, and that's definitely true when it comes to dog treadmills. The most affordable option on our list, this model costs under $400, and can hold up to 130 pounds.
It comes with side panels to help train your dog to stay on the machine, but you can take them off once they're comfortable on the treadmill. It has front wheels, so you can easily move it around, and it can reach speeds of 7.5 mph.
Key Specs
| Size | 48 Best Budget-Friendly Option. |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 130 lbs. |
| Remote Control | Yes |
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Some customers complained about the quality of the remote
If you're looking for a great treadmill for your small-breed dog, look no further. This model boasts a high average rating from reviewers on Amazon, who praise its easy assembly and quiet operation.
It comes with 12 workout modes, a remote control, and has an LCD screen that displays the number of calories burned, distance, speed, and time.
Key Specs
| Size | Not listed |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 200 lbs. |
| Remote Control | Yes |
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
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