Best Dog Tunnels

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Updated:  May 10th, 2022

Dog tunnels are an indispensable part of an agility training routine but can also be a fun accessory for playtime. Read on to find out which dog tunnels are the best on the market!


Keeping an active, intelligent dog entertained and occupied is sometimes a challenge – that’s where dog sports come into play. Dog agility training is a great way to help your pooch burn off extra energy, keep his mind sharp, and deepen the bond you two have through shared activity and time spent together. And eleven if you don’t have plans to take your pet out to competitions, agility training can still be a fun activity for you two to do together – all you need is some spare time and agility equipment. Dog tunnels are the perfect starting point for beginners and an indispensable piece of equipment for pros – take a look at our selection of the best dog tunnels on the market.

Editor’s Choice: DEStar Dog Tunnel

Check Price $87.99

Pros

  • Suits most dog breeds
  • Durable and well-made
  • Comes with poles and a carrying case
  • Available in two colors

Cons

  • Not for professional agility training

Whether you’re looking to try out agility sports with your pet or just want a simple dog tunnel for them to play in, this versatile design will do the trick. Made from premium quality 190T tear-resistant polyester fabric, the tunnel can withstand your dog’s claws and it’s also easy to clean. The tunnel measures 55.12" (4.6 ft) in length and has a standard diameter of 24” that will suit most breeds and has 2 added additional straps at both sides to prevent slipping. In addition to the tunnel, you’ll also be getting ABS poles for agility training, 2 L-shaped metal stakes to stabilize the tunnel when it’s used outdoors, and 3 nifty carrying bags to store this collapsible dog tunnel and its accessories when you want to put it away or pack for a trip.

Runner Up: Houseables Dog Tunnel

Check Price $54.92

Pros

  • AKC and NADAC compliant
  • Waterproof material
  • Sturdy and stable
  • Portable – carrying case included

Cons

  • Could be more durable

AKC and NADAC compliant, this dog tunnel is modeled after tunnels that are used in obstacle courses at official dog sport events, so if you are looking to train your pooch to compete, this is a great choice. Measuring 18 ft in length and with a 24” diameter, it will suit the needs of most dog breeds as well as match the exact measurements of official agility course tunnels. The tunnel is made from lightweight but durable 600D woven Oxford Dacron material, which is both waterproof and tear-proof. You can use this tunnel indoors or outdoors – there are downward-angled, anti-rust zinc plated 7” stakes that insert through the metal grommet tabs around the tunnel base to make it stable when used outside. This tunnel is collapsible, comes with its own carrying case, and is available in two colors.

Customer’s Choice: HDP 18 Ft Dog Agility Training Open Tunnel

Check Price $42.98

Pros

  • AKC compliant
  • Durable scratch-resistant fabric
  • Stakes for stability
  • Carry case included

Cons

  • Doesn’t hold up well to continuous use

You can’t go wrong with the basics! This dog tunnel features standard measurements (18 ft in length and a 24” diameter) that will suit the needs of most dogs and puppies and will closely resemble the actual tunnel that will be used at agility competitions – if your goal is to train your pooch and not just play, this simple dog tunnel will be a good option as it is AKC compliant. Made from durable intertwined woven oxford Dacron, it will stand up well to your pet’s claws when they are running through it and will be easy to keep clean. There are 8 short stakes for extra stability, which go through steel grommets to ensure the tunnel doesn’t slide on the ground. To boot, it also has its carry case so you can take it on the go!

Best for Agility: CHEERING PET Premium Dog Agility Equipment Set

Check Price $124.99

Pros

  • Multiple options to choose from
  • Easy to customize
  • Provides fun playtime or training for agility
  • Easy to store away

Cons

  • Could be more durable

If you are looking to train your pooch to compete in agility sports, this beginner dog agility equipment set is a perfect place to start! To be precise, there are 5 sets to choose from to adapt to your needs: the most basic one includes a connectable classic dog tunnel and a “blind” tunnel (tunnel with a chute), while the 7-piece set is the most advanced and contains one standard tunnel, one blind tunnel, two dog jumps, dog hoop, pause box, and weave poles. The tunnels are circa 4 ft long (each) and have a diameter of 23”. Of course, each set comes with one (or more) carrying bag to keep everything neatly stored away when not in use.

Best for Play: Midlee Dog Agility Chute Tunnel

Check Price $44.99

Pros

  • Interesting chute design
  • Keeps dogs engaged and active
  • Perfect for playing or training
  • Suits most dogs

Cons

  • Might be cramped for large and extra-large breeds

Your pooch doesn’t have to be talented for sports to be able to enjoy everything dog tunnels have to offer! In fact, dog tunnels can be a great way to play with your pet and help them burn off extra energy in an easy and fun way. This design is called a chute tunnel or a blind tunnel, as it starts off as a regular tunnel but halfway turns to a chute – increasing the fun levels so much more. The tunnel is 24" in diameter, about 32" (2.6 ft) long, and the chute is about 152" (13 ft) in length, so overall it translates to standard dimensions that suit most dog breeds perfectly. It comes with stakes to keep it grounded and a carrying case.

Best for Small Dogs: Cossy Home Collapsible Dog Tunnel

Check Price $28.99

Pros

  • Different sizes to suit small breed dogs
  • Durable construction and materials
  • Great for playtime or training
  • Stakes included

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a carrying case

For most small breed and toy breed dogs, the standard, AKC-compliant dog tunnels are a bit too big, which can spoil their fun. Designed for the needs of puppies and small dogs, this collapsible dog tunnel has all the good qualities of its bigger counterparts, only scaled down to the size that fits petite pooches better. It comes in two sizes: 78” (6.5 ft) in length and 17” in diameter, or 118” (9.8 ft) long with a diameter of 19.6”. Made with durable polyester fabric and with steel springs, it comes with stakes to make it more stable when used on the ground.

Best for Medium Dogs: Cool Runners Agility Lightweight PVC Dog Training Tunnel

Check Price $148.19

Pros

  • High-quality, durable materials
  • Mildew-resistant and UV-resistant
  • Perfect size for medium breed dogs
  • Adjustable

Cons

  • Not rip-proof

When you think of agility, the first breeds that come to mind are probably the Border Collie or the Australian Shepherd, which are both medium-size dogs. If your pooch falls within the same weight category as medium breeds (24 to 57 pounds), this type of tunnel will be just right for their needs. Made from a PVC material that’s UV-resistant and mildew-resistant so it can handle frequent outdoor use, it has an 8-inch pitch and extends to 15 ft to suit your dog's needs and increase the challenge if needed and the 24” diameter of the tunnel makes it perfectly suited to medium breed dogs. Thanks to the sturdy build, it doesn’t need stakes or bags to keep it in place.

Best for Large Dogs: Pacific Play Tents Institutional Play Tunnel

Check Price $100.77

Pros

  • Extra-large for big breeds
  • Durable and tough materials
  • Hardened steel springs
  • Collapsible and easy to store

Cons

  • No sandbags or stakes included

Big dogs – especially those that are really big – can find the standard size dog tunnels a bit too cramped for their comfort. But with some out-of-the-box thinking, you can easily find the ideal dog tunnel for your large breed dog – like this one, which was originally meant to be used by kids! However, it still ticks all the boxes that quality dog tunnels should: it is sturdy, durable, and spacious enough. It is made from Polyester Dacron 600x300 weave fabric with extra heavy-duty construction so it can really take a beating, and measures 9 ft in length with a 28” diameter which is more than enough for even the largest dog breeds such as Great Danes to comfortably go through. Easy to clean and collapsible, it comes with its own carrying case for portability.

Best with Obstacles: XiaZ Obstacle Agility Training Starter Kit

Check Price $109.99

Pros

  • Various obstacles and agility equipment
  • Universal tunnel size
  • Easy to store
  • Great for energetic dogs

Cons

  • Not suitable for large dogs

For those dogs that need a little bit more of a challenge to stay entertained and engaged, this agility training kit is heaven-sent. In addition to a tunnel, you’ll be getting a pause box, jumping ring, adjustable high jump obstacle, and weave poles – more than enough to keep any energetic doggo occupied for hours on end. The additional equipment is made from lightweight but sturdy ABS and metal, and the tunnel is made from durable and low-maintenance polyester fabric. As the dimensions of the tunnel are 70” (5.8”) with a diameter of 24”, it will suit most dogs with ease. Even though there are plenty of pieces with this set, they are all quite easy to assemble and disassemble, and with added carrying cases, you’ll easily store everything away when not in use.

Best with Sandbags: Better Sporting Dogs 16 Foot Dog Agility Tunnel with Sandbags

Check Price $84.99

Pros

  • Sandbags ensure sturdiness
  • Suited for most breeds
  • Comes with a carry case
  • Durable polyester

Cons

  • Could be more durable

Dog tunnels are no good if they are flimsy – they need to be able to stay in place while your dog is running through them. Some use stakes that are pushed into the ground, but that’s not always doable, which is why many dog owners prefer using dog tunnels with saddlebags or sandbags instead. The saddlebags are located on both sides of the flap which goes over the tunnel and are filled with sand, thus keeping the tunnel firmly in place without distorting its shape. The tunnel itself measures 16 ft in length with a 24” in diameter and is made from 180T polyester which is durable and lightweight. The saddlebags can hold up to 15 lbs of sand each and have a wide mouth for easier filling.

What to Look for In Dog Tunnels


Dog tunnels are simple constructions, but still, there are a few things to consider before choosing one for your pet. In addition to the quality of the materials, you should pay attention to the following:


Dimensions


If you want to compete in agility, your best bet is to go for an AKC-compliant dog tunnel that will have the exact measurements of the ones used at competitions, which is between 10 and 20 feet in length, with a diameter of 24” (a margin of error is 1” or 2”). Otherwise, make sure that the dimensions suit your pet’s needs: adjust the diameter to their size (most do well with 24”, but extra small and extra big need tweaks) and pick the length that you think will work best for their energy levels.


Stability


Dog tunnels are usually made from lightweight polyester with steel or plastic springs, so they are not the sturdiest on their own. If you are using it outdoors, which the majority of people do, you can pick between stakes or sandbags. Stakes are inserted into the ground through grommets at the base of the tunnel to keep it stable, and sandbags are filled with sand and rest at the sides, connected with a strap that goes over the tunnel, ensuring it stays firmly in place.


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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Is a Bearded Dragon the Right Pet for Me?

Are you considering adding a scaly friend to your family? Bearded dragons have captured the hearts of reptile experts and casual pet lovers alike with their unique appearance, interesting personalities, and low-maintenance care requirements.However, owning a reptile is a significant commitment, regardless of what type of reptile you choose!Before bringing a new pet into your home, you must weigh the pros and cons. This guide will explore the key factors to consider when deciding if a bearded dragon is the right fit for your lifestyle and living situation.Bearded Dragon Behavior and Temperament One reason bearded dragons have gained so much popularity as pets is their calm and docile temperament. While many reptiles are resistant to being tamed, bearded dragons are generally highly responsive to their owners. They are attentive pets that enjoy spending time with their person. They tolerate being touched and handled well, rarely biting or scratching in response. In fact, many learn to ride around on their owners’ shoulders, perched happily. While they enjoy spending time with their person, they also need their alone time. Many owners see this as a positive as it allows them to go to work, run errands, or even participate in social events without worrying about their pet’s separation anxiety (a concern many dog owners know well). Of course, there are always exceptions – but generally speaking, these gentle and highly social pets are an excellent option for reptile lovers interested in forming a special bond with their new companion. Choosing Your Bearded Dragon If reading that description of the bearded dragon makes you excited that you’ve found your perfect reptile companion, it’s time to discuss how to find your new friend. This includes not only finding a pet whose personality is a good match for your own but also ensuring that your new lizard is healthy. There are two different approaches to finding a new reptile. First, you can connect with a reputable bearded dragon breeder. Purchasing your reptile from a breeder generally involves a contract that is designed to protect both you and the breeder, guaranteeing the health of your new pet on the day it is adopted. Alternatively, you can contact your local shelter or reptile-specific rescue organizations. Here are a few important considerations when searching for your new pet: Check all over for any sign of visible injuries, such as scratches, cuts, scars, or burns. While you could take on an injured reptile without any long-term issues, you may also find yourself dealing with secondary complications like infections. Run your fingers along the tail. A healthy tail will feel round and plump at the base, near the body. If it feels sunken into the body or overly bony, that’s a red flag. Look into the reptile’s eyes. You want to choose a bearded dragon who is alert and aware of your presence. It should hold its head upright, with its eyes following your movements. Sunken eyes are also a concern.Check their face for any signs of inflammation or pus. Ensure they don’t have runny eyes. Assess the quality of the bearded dragon’s skin. Loose or discolored skin is a sign of underlying illness.Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the breeder or rescue worker who is showing you the young bearded dragon. Ask about whether they have noticed any sign of illness or injury. You can also ask about the state of their “droppings.” Sure, it’s not the most exciting conversation – but it is a good indicator of a reptile’s well-being. Most importantly, don’t feel pressured into bringing a new pet home. If you are being pushed to make a snap decision, that is a warning sign that they may be trying to hide something.

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

How Do I Keep My Reptile from Overheating?

Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures, soaking up the sun to regulate their body temperature. But this doesn’t mean that they love ALL heat. As the temperatures climb outside, your reptile’s enclosure can quickly become dangerously hot, leading to serious health issues.This blog post will be your summer survival guide, packed with tips and tricks to keep your best friend cool and comfortable all summer long.What Happens if a Reptile Gets Too Hot?Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a reptile's body heat rises dangerously high due to outside sources, and they are unable to adjust as necessary to bring it back down to a safe level.As cold-blooded animals, reptiles rely on outside influences for their temperature. If they are too cold, they seek heat. Likewise, if they are too hot, they seek a cooler area. However, if no cool space is available, their body temperature will continue to climb.Overheating can lead to dehydration, tissue/organ damage, or organ failure. Just as heatstroke can be fatal in dogs and cats, overheating can also be life-threatening for our reptile friends.What Temperature is Too Hot for Reptiles? Each reptile species has its own ideal temperature. For example, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Greek tortoise thrives most in temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the green iguana prefers warmer temperatures, between 84 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures reflect the reptile's typical natural environment.You will need to research the specific species to determine what temperatures are safe for your reptile and what are considered too hot. You can do this by looking up that information online, but ensure you only trust a reliable source. Another great way to find out your pet's ideal temperature is to speak with your exotic animal veterinarian. If you don’t already have a vet specializing in exotic animals like reptiles, this is the perfect opportunity to start your search. The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians database is a great place to start!

Backyard Airbnbs Give Dog Owners A Private Leash-Free Space to Play

Hourly backyard rentals provide a perfect alternative to the crowded leash-free environment.

Six Toes, Nine Lives, and a Famous Author

Key West's Hemingway Home and Museum houses 60 polydactyl cats descended from the author's beloved first six-toed feline.

Is a Ferret the Right Pet For Me?

Ferrets are well-known for their playful personalities and mischievous antics – and who can resist their adorable faces? As a result, they have become an increasingly popular choice for pets. However, before you invite one of these energetic critters into your home, it’s essential to understand their unique needs! In this guide, I’ll explore the pros and cons of ferret ownership, including questions to ask yourself to determine if a ferret is the right pet for you. Plus, if you’re ready to move forward with your new pet, we’ll help you identify what to look for in a healthy ferret and the steps to take to prepare your home for your new furry friend’s arrival. Ferret Basics: Things You Should Know Before Getting a Ferret Before researching where to find your new friend, let’s step back and start with the basics. What will your new ferret require for a happy, healthy life? Are you prepared to meet those needs? Determining this should be the first step when considering any new pet, regardless of the pet you plan to adopt. Yes, even dogs and cats! Temperament Ferrets are social animals and require regular interaction with others. They are happiest when living in pairs or small groups for constant companionship. This also means they aren’t the type of pet that can be left to fend for themselves without regular quality time with their person or people. They can be startled easily and have sharp teeth that hurt considerably if they bite. This most commonly happens if they are surprised, startled, or handled incorrectly. For this reason, they may not be the best fit for homes with young children unless careful boundaries are established. Daily RoutineExperts recommend that ferrets be given at least 4 hours of active time outside their cage or habitat daily, six to eight hours when they are young. Failing to meet those needs can lead to boredom and a wide range of behavioral problems. When you start handling and playing with your ferret, you may notice they are naturally mouthy. To train your new ferret to play safely with people, avoid using your hands as a “toy.” Instead, use fun and ferret-safe toys like rubber balls, ropes, chew toys, or interactive cat toys. Avoid anything too small that they could swallow, as it could cause a life-threatening obstruction. Grooming While these adorable creatures are naturally clean, they have a distinct odor often described as musky. This scent is even stronger in unneutered ferrets. You can bathe your ferret regularly, but the smell will never disappear entirely. That being said, avoid the temptation to over-bathe your ferret. They should be bathed at most once or twice a month. Bathing them too often will strip their skin and coat of the protective natural oils, causing skin irritation or even making the smell worse! Diet Ferrets are carnivores requiring a high-protein, low-fiber, meat-based diet. This can be accomplished by feeding a commercially prepared ferret food or preparing a homemade diet. The amount they need to eat and the nutrients required to ensure their diet is balanced correctly will depend on their age, weight, lifestyle, and any underlying health concerns. Some foods that can be included in their meals include eggs, high-protein baby foods, kitten foods, turkey necks, game birds, or minced meat. Health and Veterinary CareLike other traditional companion animals, ferrets require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure no cause for concern. Finding a vet may be a little more challenging as there are fewer vets experienced with ferret care. These little critters are prone to several health problems like lymphoma, adrenal gland disease, respiratory problems, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. Staying on top of their vet care will help prevent issues and identify problems early when they are easier to address.Ideal Environment When creating the ideal habitat for your ferret, one of the biggest things to consider is the available space in your home. A ferret’s cage should be at least 18 inches by 18 inches by 30 inches, with a minimum of two levels and stairs or ramps to move between them. This means you must find space in your home for a cage of this size. This cage should include many enrichment opportunities, like toys, tubes, hammocks, and hiding spaces. In addition to setting up a cage with all the necessities, they will also need time to play and explore outside their cage. This means you will need to have a ferret-proofed area of the home where they can move about safely. They are masters of climbing and slipping through small spaces, which can make the process of ferret-proofing or keeping them contained in one area of the home challenging. Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Ferret Do you have enough space to accommodate your ferret’s habitat and the ability to ferret-proof an area of your home (they are escape artists)? Are you prepared for the high cost of veterinary care if your ferret encounters a medical emergency or any of the common health conditions listed above?Can you dedicate at least 4 hours per day to playtime and social interaction? Are ferrets legal to keep as pets in my area? Have you found a vet near you with experience in ferret care?Will you be comfortable with the strong, musky ferret odor (Yes, it will be in your home)?Do you have a young child in the home? If so, you may be better served by adopting a pet your child can handle and interact with safely.

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