5 Best Dog Runners for Yard Exercise (2024)

Dog runners are a perfect way to ensure your precious pup gets all the exercise they need in a day without worrying about your dog running off or getting lost. Homeowners without a fence will enjoy a dog runner for the yard, especially if their dog has been cooped up in the house for a few days after a troublesome move.

However, how do you pick the best dog runner for your family and home?

There are a few things to consider before choosing the best dog runner. Read on to learn more about dog runners and how to choose the best option for you and your home.

What Are Dog Runners?

Dog runners are long cables that can keep your dog in the confines of your yard without being afraid of them getting loose. Dog runners can be good for dogs who need to expel some energy without breaking anything in the home or annoying their owners. Most dog runners include stakes that go into the ground to ensure your dog stays securely on the property.

Many dog runners will also have a spring to prevent your dog from getting hurt by a shortstop. These runners usually have two clips, one on each end. These clips can be wrapped around pillars outside your front door for a more secure hold on your dog since some dogs may be strong enough to pull stakes out of the ground.

Are Dog Runners Good for Dogs?

Dog runners are ideal for dogs who lack a lot of space to run and play inside and need to get some exercise outside their homes. Dog runners can provide dog owners with worry-free alternatives to getting zoomies in the house. These items are best for homes without a fence in the backyard, where a dog would ideally run and play.

Without a fence, some dogs may not stay on the property and might run away from their owners to pursue their newfound freedom. Dog runners prevent this and can keep all family members happy.

What Homes and Situations Are Dog Runners Best Used For?

Dog runners are best on properties without enclosed fences or when the fence door has to be open. For example, homes undergoing renovations or construction may benefit from a dog runner since construction workers and homeowners may need to keep their doors or fence open to move material back and forth.

Dog runners can also benefit homes without a fence but have a large backyard with plenty of space for a dog to play in. These tools can also help train your dog to stay in the confines of the yard.

How To Pick the Best Dog Runner for Your Dog?

Picking the best dog runner for your precious pup and your home can be a challenge. However, consider some key factors before deciding on one.

Look at Length

The length of a dog runner is the most significant factor to consider when choosing a dog runner. For example, some dog runners may be too short for large dogs and can poorly impact your pup’s ability to get proper exercise.

Consider Your Dog’s Weight

Your pup’s weight will also impact how some dog runners will work for you. A large dog can easily pull a dog runner free from some objects, and a big dog can pull a stake out of the ground. Small dogs will be easier to buy a dog runner for, especially if they are lightweight.

Consider the Space You Have

Consider how much space you have before choosing a dog runner. Some dog runners may be too small for the space you have. However, some dog runners may be too big for your yard, meaning your dog may get into the neighbor’s yard or get into trouble with closeby gardens and lawn decor.

5 Best Dog Runners for Yard Exercises

Our top five picks for dog runners can help your dog get plenty of exercise without getting hurt or causing any damage to its property. These runners can ensure your dog will stay put – all with unique benefits and features.

Pestairs Heavy Duty Aerial Dog Tie Out Trolley System

The Pestairs Heavy Duty Aerial Tie Out Trolley System is a unique dog runner that can work in a backyard, between home pillars, or between trees when camping. Unlike other dog runners, this runner allows your dog more space to travel and play without tangles in the cable.

Some of the best benefits of this product include the following:

• Vertical space means less risk of getting tangled.
• Comes in multiple lengths and sizes.
• Perfect for dogs up to 125 pounds.

However, some things about this product may not be best for your home and pup:

• Won’t work unless you have two pillars or locations to secure the cable.
• Doesn’t allow for 360-degree access.
• Puppies should be supervised with any sharp screws and objects in the packaging.

XiaZ Dog Runner Tie-Out Cable

The XiaZ Dog Runner Tie-Out Cable can wrap around a tree or pillar to keep your dog securely in the yard and out of trouble. This cable uses stainless steel that is tear and rip-resistant.

Some of the features of this product include:

• Screw clips to prevent breaking or escape.
• A stainless steel cable that can’t be chewed.
• Anti-rust material.

However, this product may not be for everyone:

• Hooks can be difficult to close.
• Easily tangled and twisted.

Petbobi Dog Tie Out Cable

The Petbobi Dog Tie-Out Cable is one of the best tie-out cables that can offer your dog plenty of space without worry. This cable can be secured to the home or a stake in the ground to keep dogs up to 120 pounds in the yard.

The key features of this product include the following:

• Comes in multiple sizes.
• Includes a chew-proof cable.
• Comes with a buffer spring to keep your pup’s neck safe.

Buyers should be mindful of some negative aspects, however:

• May not suit heavy dogs who can easily uproot stakes.
• Metal hooks and springs may be prone to rust.

Fostanfly Heavy Duty Dog Tie Out Runner Cable

The Fostanfly Heavy Duty Dog Tie Out Runner Cable is a perfect option for dog owners who need to keep their dogs in one place while allowing them access to the outdoors. This cable is brightly colored for easy visibility.

This product is ideal because of the following features:

• Bright color allows for stronger visibility.
• Holds dogs up to 250 pounds.
• Includes a spring to prevent injury from pulling.

However, this product may not be ideal because of potential negatives:

• Screw hookups may be too weak for strong dogs.
• The product may not include instructions.

PNBO 360 Swivel Dog Tie-Out Cable And Stake

Unlike other dog tie-out cables, the PNBO 360 Swivel Dog Tie Out Cable And Stake allows your dog a full range of the backyard because of the multi-layer stake that swivels at the base. This option is rust-proof, making it ideal for an outdoor excursion.

Some benefits of this product include the following:

• Rust-proof exterior offers longevity.
• Ability to accommodate 150-pound dogs.
• Can be installed in grass, concrete, wood, and snow.

Prospective buyers may want to be aware of these potential issues:

• Possible difficulty installing the product.
• Cannot be installed in gravel or sand.

Final Thoughts

Dog runners are immensely useful for homeowners and dog owners who have plenty of space but no fence to keep their pup inside the yard. Many dog runners can offer your dog plenty of exercise opportunities and playtime without being afraid of them running off and getting lost. Some of the best dog runners have a long cable so your dog has plenty of opportunity to wander and play.

Dog runners are good for dogs and many of these runners are made with safe materials that can help your dog without any cause for concern or fear of injury.