What is slatmill training?
What is a slatmill?
A slatmill is a non-motorised treadmill designed specifically for dogs that lets them walk or run at their own pace. That means it moves when they move and stops when they stop. They have complete control over their speed, while durable materials, secure harnessing, and safety features ensure the safest, most effective exercise experience.
This creates a safer, more instinctive exercise that:
Matches your dog’s natural pace
Reduces impact compared to hard outdoor surfaces
Provides a consistent, controlled workout environment
As trainers, we guide your dog through structured, focused workouts, helping them burn off excess energy and relieve anxiety. Your pup can reach the speeds they were born for without the worry of space constraints, distractions, or weather concerns. In our controlled, protected environment, rain, wind, the cold or heat never gets in.
why use a slatmill?
Not every dog gets the exercise they actually need. Walks alone often aren’t enough, especially for high-energy or working breeds.
Slatmill sessions help with:
Energy release – burn off excess energy properly
Mental stimulation – focused, purposeful work
Conditioning – build endurance and muscle
Behaviour – reduce restlessness, anxiety, and destructive habits
Backed by research
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built for performance
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Backed by research 〰️ built for performance 〰️
We don’t guess. We base our approach on proven canine exercise science
IMPROVED CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Structured exercise training programs improve the clinical health, physical functionality and quality of life of dogs with congestive heart failure, whilst also slowing the progression of cardiac disease.
IMPROVED COGNITIVE FUNCTION
Physical exercise plays a vital role in the diagnosis of canine cognitive dysfunction, by reducing the severity of its symptoms and the rate at which it progresses.
The mental exercise of physical training also has a beneficial impact on the brain, promoting cognitive function
REDUCED DESTRUCTIVE TENDENCIES
Dogs getting less exercise have a higher tendency to exhibit repetitive and destructive behaviours
IMPROVED ANXIOUS BEHAVIOURS
Regular exercise helps improve separation anxiety.
More exercise also delays late onset noise sensitivity
Fearful dogs tend to get less exercise compared to non-fearful dogs.
Dogs who are exercised less tend to exhibit more aggressive behaviours to other dogs
IMPROVED WELLBEING
Regular exercise is a protective measure against stress and actively promotes serotonin
Supports self-confidence and emotional security
What happens in a slatmill session?
Introduction and Warm-Up
We ease your dog onto the slatmill, building confidence and familiarity at their own pace.
Controlled Running Intervals
Short bursts of running with rest periods in between, adjusted to suit fitness level, breed, and temperament.
YOUR DOG CONTROLS THE SPEED!
Guidance and Handling
We work with your dog to maintain rhythm, focus, and safe movement throughout the session.
Cool Down and Rest
Time to slow down, regulate breathing, and finish in a calm, controlled state.
…and for the first session?
Your first session is all about introducing your dog to the slatmill in a positive, pressure-free way.
We focus on:
Familiarisation with the equipment
Building trust and confidence
Light movement (if your dog is ready)
Reading your dog’s behaviour and comfort level
This means sniffing, rewards, encouragement and guided movement of the slats
There’s no expectation to run straight away. This is about setting the foundation