Your beloved canine is a perfect companion for an outdoor excursion be it camping, hiking, hunting or any other activity. So, if you love to have your Fido to accompany you on an overnight camping trip, then you would need to ensure that it stays safe and secure and does not embark on an unsupervised exploration during the day and especially during the nights. One way to prevent this is to use a dog tie-out with a stake.
But which are the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and other outdoor adventures?
In this article, we will list some of the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and other off-road excursions. Our focus would be on heavy-duty tie-out cables and stakes which are reliable, safe and easy to set up. We will also discuss some of the major factors to keep in mind before picking the best dog tie-out and stakes and share our top picks for both. So, fasten your seatbelts and read on!
Also, check out our article on the best dog backpacks for another essential gear for hiking and backpacking.
Best dog tie-out list
Some of the best dog tie-out cables for camping and other outdoor adventures are listed below:| Picture | Product | Specifications | |
|---|---|---|---|
  | BV Pets Heavy-Duty Dog Tie-Out Cable | 30 feet cable. For dogs up to 125 lbs. Other options are also available. | |
  | Petmate Aspen Pet Easyturn Tie-out Stake & Cable | 20 feet cable. 9 mm., 18” stake. For dogs up to 100 lbs. | |
  | Ben-Mor Zinco Strong Tie-Out Cable | 15, 20 or 30 feet cable. For dogs up to 100 lbs. | |
  | Snagle Paw Reflective Tie-Out Cable | 15 or 20 feet cable. For dogs up to 60 lbs. Other options are also available. | |
  | Ruffwear Knot-a-Hitch Tethering System | 36 feet rope w/ hardware. For dogs up to 150 lbs. | |
  | Lixit Animal Care Retractable Cable Tie-Out | S: 15 feet cable, up to 30 lbs. M: 20 feet cable, up to 80 lbs. L: 15 feet cable, up to 120 lbs. |
Best dog tie-out stake list
Some of the best dog tie-out stakes for camping and other outdoor adventures are listed below:| Picture | Product | Specifications | |
|---|---|---|---|
  | SUREswivel 360-deg. Swiveling Pet Tie-Out | Six 8-10” anchor stakes. For dogs up to 100 lbs. | |
  | Intellileash Intelli-Stayk Dog Tie-Out Stake | 10 mm., 13” spiral stake. For dogs up to 125 lbs. | |
  | K9Compass Tangle Free Dog Tie Out | 14” steel spiral stake. For one or two dogs up to 250 lbs. each. | |
  | Säker Dog Tie Out Stake | 15 mm., 14” dome stake. For dogs up to 150 lbs. | |
  | Camco Spiral Anchor Tie-Out Stake | 8 mm., 12” spiral stake. For dogs up to 75 lbs. | |
  | Boss Pet-Prestige Dome Stake | 10-12 mm., 21” dome stake. For dogs up to 125 lbs. | |
  | Pet Champion Tie Out Stake | Std.: 18” spiral stake, 60 lbs. L: 14” dome stake, 100 lbs. XL: 18” dome stake, 150 lbs. |
What are dog tie-outs and stakes and how are they useful?
Dog Tie-outs are standard tethering systems designed to restrict the movement of pet to a limited area and prevent them from unrestricted roaming around.
Tethering by itself is probably not the best solution, but for camping with dogs or engaging in other outdoor adventures, it is often a necessary solution to prevent the pet from running away or disturb other campers. And since a tie-out cable of suitable length still gives enough playground to the pet, it is a better option than restricting the pet on a short leash.
Pet tethering systems come in different designs – dog tie-out cable and stakes are ideal for camping as well as yards with no fences. And if you have two-trees or tie-out points available, a trolley tethering system would also work well. (Many counties have restrictions on the pulley or trolley-based tethering systems because of their misuse, so keep that in mind before picking one).
Before we look at the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and outdoors, let us briefly discuss the major drawbacks or challenges associated with using such restraining solutions:
- Tethering systems can cause strangulation or accidental neck and leg injuries due to tangling of cables.
- Having only a restricted area for food, shelter and play can sometimes be uncomfortable to the pet.
- Prolonged tethering can lead to behavioral problems and aggression in pets.
- Though rare, a tethered pet may have limited escape options if attacked by wild animals like coyotes, wild cats or wolves.
Despite all the drawbacks and challenges, tethering dogs with tie-outs is still a suitable mechanism to prevent your pet from running away and be lost in the unfamiliar wilderness.
In the next sections, we will list our picks for the best dog tie-outs for camping and other outdoor activities and also list out the factors to keep in mind before picking the best option for your beloved pet.
Which are the best dog tie-out cables for camping and hiking?
BV Pets Heavy-Duty Dog Tie-Out Cable – Best dog tie-out cable
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Material: Galvanized steel cable with a weather-proof vinyl sheath. Chrome-plated steel swivel clips.
Specifications:
- 30 feet cable.
- Suitable for dogs up to 125 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Best-selling ultralight dog tie-out cable with an all-steel cable having a reflective and rust-resistant vinyl sheath. Made in Taiwan under the US-based company’s quality control measures.
- Features chrome-plated steel swivel clips on both ends with heavy-duty crimps for better durability.
- Quick release clips with 360-degree rotation provide tangle-free operation with or without the stake.
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment and a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
- The manufacturer also offers a 60-feet BV Pets Aerial Trolley with a 10 feet runner cable.
- Other tie-out cable options for smaller and bigger dogs are also available from the same manufacturer.
Detail Review:
When it comes to dog tie-outs, Illinois, US-based BV Pets has been one of the most popular brands for years with its best-selling standard tie-out cables and aerial trolley systems. It is also our favorite for dog tie-outs.
The BV Pets heavy-duty dog tie-out cable features a 30-feet heavy-gauge galvanized steel cable with a rust-resistant and weather-proof reflective vinyl sheath. Like all BV Pets cables, the heavy-duty cable is rigorously tested and designed to work with dogs weighing up to 125 lbs. Other dog tie-out options are also available as listed below. All cables and tie-outs are made in Taiwan under strict quality control measures enforced by the company.
- Green – X-Small: For pets up to 20 lbs. such as Beagle, Dachshund, and Pugs.
- Yellow – Small: For pets up to 25 lbs. such as Dachshund, Basset and Pugs.
- Blue – Medium: For pets up to 60 lbs. such as Bulldog, English Springer, and Spaniels.
- Silver – Large: For pets up to 90 lbs. such as Labrador, Boxer, and Collie.
- Red – X-Large: For pets up to 125 lbs. such as Rottweiler and Doberman.
- Gray – XX-Large: For pets up to 250 lbs. such as Rottweiler and Pitbull.
The BV Pets dog tie-out cable has chrome-plated steel swivel clips on both ends with heavy-duty crimps to provide durability to the cable. These quick release swivel clips provide tangle-free 360-degree rotation and comfortable tethering to the pet. At only 21 ounces, the heavy-duty cable offers an excellent weight-to-strength ratio.
The BV Pets dog tie-out cable can be set up with a stake-free system by looping it around a tree or post. And it works equally well with a stake. Like all other BV Pets products, the BV Pets heavy-duty dog tie-out cable is backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment and a one-year manufacturer warranty.
- Lightweight yet durable, dog tie-out cable featuring a galvanized steel cable with a rust-resistant, reflective vinyl cover. Weighs only 21 oz. for the 30-feet cable.
- Features steel swivel clips on both ends with heavy-duty crimps for better durability even in sun and rain.
- Quick release clips with 360-degree rotation provide tangle-free operation with or without the stake. Suitable for dogs weighing up to 125 lbs.
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment and a one-year manufacturer warranty.
- Other tie-out cable options for smaller and bigger dogs are also available from the same manufacturer.
- Does not come with a stake and it has to be purchased separately.
- Some users have reported the swivel clips rusting unexpectedly.
Petmate Aspen Pet Easyturn Tie-out Stake & Cable
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Material: Galvanized steel chain with a rust-resistant, reflective vinyl sheath. Steel swivel snap clips. Double-welded steel spiral stake.
Specifications:
- 20 feet cable.
- 9 mm. thick and 18″ long spiral stake.
- For dogs up to 100 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- Budget dog tie-out cable and stake combo with all-steel construction – the cable is galvanized steel with vinyl sheath; the stake is solid steel with metal-plating. Made in China for US-based company.
- Features a 9mm. thick, spiral stake with swivel ring that works on all soil surfaces. A dome-style, wide-grip plastic handle helps in easy installation.
- The tie-out cable features two metal-plated swivel clips for tangle-free movement for dogs weighing up to 100 lbs.
- Available in a reflective silver color and backed by a one-year limited manufacturer warranty.
- Competitively priced at under 15 dollars for the stake and cable combo.
Ben-Mor Zinco Strong Tie-Out Cable
Material: Galvanized steel chain with a weather-proof vinyl cover. Zinc die-casted and nickel-plated swivel locks.
Specifications:
- Blue: 15 feet cable for pets up to 50 lbs.
- Red: 20 feet cable for pets up to 80 lbs.
- Silver: 30 feet cable for pets up to 100 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- High-quality and lightweight dog tie-out cable manufactured by a leading cabling company. Made in North America (US or Canada).
- Features a heavy-gauge vinyl-coated galvanized steel cable that is rust-resistant and weather-proof.
- Features Zinc die-casted and nickel plated 360-degree snap locks that are twice as strong as other tie-out cables. Loop-free to prevent pet’s skin and fur getting caught in the lock.
- Available in three colors and sizes for dogs up to 100 lbs.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects when purchased from an authorized re-seller or manufacturer.
Snagle Paw Reflective Tie-Out Cable
Material: Galvanized steel chain with a rust-resistant, water-proof polyvinyl sheath. Galvanized-steel shock spring and snap-locks.
Specifications:
- 15 or 20 feet cable.
- Shock-absorbing steel spring on one end and snap-locks on both ends.
- Suitable for dogs up to 60 lbs. Other options also available.
Price: $ to $$ depending upon the size and length.
Features:
- High-quality and lightweight dog tie-out cable featuring a rust-resistant galvanized steel cable with a vinyl sheath for corrosion and weather protection.
- Features a twin-swivel design with a shock absorbing spring and snap locks to prevent tangling and jerking of the cable.
- Strong snap locks are attached on both ends and can be attached to a post or stake. Quality-tested for specified dog weight and pull.
- Available in three colors – red, orange and silver. Other colors and heavier tie-out cables are also available from the same manufacturer.
- Slightly costlier than other dog tie-out cables, but still offers decent value-for-money for the design and quality it offers.
Ruffwear Knot-a-Hitch Tethering System
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Material: Kernmantle rope with two metal snap-locks on the ends. Rust-proof steel swiveling carabiner. Nylon stow bag.
Specifications:
- 36 feet rope with hardware – metal snap-locks on ends and a metal carabiner for the leash.
- Rock climbing-inspired tensioning system
- Suitable for dogs up to 150 lbs.
Price: $$$.
Features:
- A unique dog hitching system similar to a trolley dog tie-out anchoring system. Made in Vietnam under the US-based RuffWear quality control.
- Features a weather-proof Kernmantle rope that can be secured using two trees or a single post. Supports a maximum distance of 36 feet between the trees.
- Rock climbing-inspired tensioning system with auto-locking provides quick and easy set up.
- Has a heavy-duty swiveling carabiner that prevents twisting and tangling of the leash. The leash or harness is NOT included.
- Comes with a convenient and durable stow bag that contains the rope tail ends while storm flap keeps the weather elements out.
- Available in bright red reflective color and backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defect.
Lixit Animal Care Retractable Cable Tie Out
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Material: Retractable tie-out cable with vinyl-coated steel cable and steel stake.
Specifications:
- Small: 15 feet yellow cable for 15-30 lbs. pets.
- Medium: 20 feet blue cable for pets up to 80 lbs.
- Large: 15 feet cable for pets up to 120 lbs.
Price: $ to $$ depending upon the size.
Features:
- Smartly-designed, retractable dog tie-out cable and stake featuring a galvanized steel cable and hardware. Made in China for US-based Howard Pet Products.
- Comes with a steel stake to plant the tie-out in the ground. Has a durable steel spring clip to attach the cable to harness or collar. The cable provides 360-degree rotation.
- Available in three sizes and colors for pets weighing from 15 lbs. up to 120 lbs.
- The retracting tension is NOT adjustable and there is no length lock. Requires some training for the pet to use correctly.
- Comes with a tee for safe hammering of stake without damaging the retractable reel.
- Backed by a one-year warranty on the retracting mechanism. No warranty on the stake.
Which are the best dog tie-out stakes for camping and outdoors?
SUREswivel 360-degree Swiveling Pet Tie-Out – Best dog tie-out stake
Material: Solid steel stakes, with nylon and fiberglass swivel base. Galvanized steel cable ring.
Specifications:
- Six 8-10″ x 3″ spiral anchor stakes.
- Nylon and fiberglass polymer swivel base.
- Suitable for dogs up to 100-125 lbs.
Price: $$$.
Features:
- Innovative 360-degree swiveling pet anchoring system featuring six solid steel anchors and a fiberglass swivel base. Made in the US.
- Patented double-barrel swivel design and patented X3 Anchor stakes provide tangle-free, dual swivel motion to one or more pets.
- Secure anchoring system is capable of handling up to 1000 lbs. of pull force. Works best with dry soil.
- Works in multiple applications – camping, yards or permanent tie-outs. Suitable for dogs up to 100-125 lbs. and cats and other small animals too.
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment and lifetime warranty against breaking.
Detail Review:
If you thought that the dog tie-out anchoring system or stake cannot be innovative, think again! The SUREswivel is a truly innovative dog tie-out anchor and hence our favorite. The SUREswivel is designed and manufactured in California, USA under strict quality control measures and individually tested to provide a reliable dog tie-out stake to pet owners.
The SUREswivel pet tie-out features a swiveling anchor base with a heavy-duty galvanized steel tether or cable ring. The base is made of fiberglass and nylon and is secured in the ground through six patented X3 Spiral Anchor Stakes. Each stake is about 8-10″ long and designed to work seamlessly on most ground surfaces. It can even be installed permanently in cement or wooden decks.
The SUREswivel anchoring system stands at about 6 inches in diameter and is 3 inches high. This means that with a little adjustment, you can even use a lawn mower over it, in case you decide to permanently install it. Installation is not too difficult, but you would need to hammer in all the six stakes to provide a stable anchoring for the pet.
The most innovative aspect of the SUREswivel is its patented 360-degree double-barrel swivel design. This unique design provides a seamless, tangle-free unrestricted movement to the pet. Pet owners have even used the same anchoring system for a couple of pets without any issues. And it can even be used to restrain the pet in trucks.
When it comes to durability and reliability, the SUREswivel is second to none. It has been tested to securely hold up to 1000 lbs. of pull force and can work well with most dogs weighing up to 100-125 lbs. It can also work well for small pets like cats, ferrets, and even goats. You just need to make sure to factor in the soil stability and consistency before installing. And if you are in doubt, you can even use longer stakes with the swivel base.
The SUREswivel pet tie-out is backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer and a warranty against breaking. In case of any issues, you can directly contact the manufacturer.
- Innovative dog tie-out anchoring system featuring six solid steel anchors and a fiberglass swivel base. Made in the US.
- Patented design provides 360-degree, tangle-free movement to the pet.
- Tested to withstand 1000 lbs. of pull force. Works with dogs up to 100-125 lbs. and cats too.
- Can be used for temporary tethering and can also be used as a permanent tie-out in the backyard.
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer.
- Considerably costlier than other dog tie-out stakes and anchoring systems.
- May not work well for sandy and soft soil surfaces.
Intellileash Intelli-Stayk Dog Tie-Out Stake
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Material: Chrome-plated steel stake with a plastic surface lock.
Specifications:
- 10 mm. thick and 13″ long spiral stake.
- Suitable for dogs up to 125 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Best-selling dog tie-out stake made of chrome plated steel with a plastic surface lock. Made in China under the US-based company’s quality control measures.
- Features a unique surface-lock technology that prevents bending, pulling, or breaking by restricting side-by-side movement. The plastic lock has saw-teeth for easy movement into the ground.
- Comes with a ring for hooking small leashes and a steel twist handle for large dog cables.
- Provides tool-free installation and removal using an extra-wide, easy twist handle.
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer. A smaller, Mini Intelli-Stayk Dog Tie-Out is also available from the same manufacturer.
K9Compass Tangle Free Dog Tie Out
Material: High-quality, carbon steel spiral stake with rust-resistant paint coating. Galvanized-steel swivel and stainless-steel cable rings and clasp.
Specifications:
- 11 mm thick and 14″ long spiral stake with steel cable-rings and clasp. Reinforced sloped head.
- Suitable for one or two dogs up to 250 lbs. each (total 500 lbs.).
Price: $$$$.
Features:
- Premium two-dog tie-out featuring a high-quality carbon steel spiral stake, galvanized steel swivel and stainless-steel cable rings and clasp. Made in the US under strict quality control measures.
- The next-generation design is an enhancement to the patented Double Dog Run Tie out stake that allows the secured tie-out cables to move tangle-free from each other, while providing a 360-degree movement.
- Suitable to use for one or two dogs up to 250 lbs. each – only stake in the market advertised to support large and extra-large canines. Supports a pull force of up to 800 lbs.
- Provides secure and convenient tool-free installation and removal using an extra-wide, easy-twist sloped handle.
- Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment or money back within 30 days and a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Replacement hardware is also available directly from the manufacturer website.
- Premium-priced and costlier than most other dog tie-out stakes, though you get what you pay for.
Saker Dog Tie Out Stake
Material: 100% single piece galvanized-steel dome stake with a rust-resistant paint. Steel metal loop for tie-out cables.
Specifications:
- 15 mm. thick and 14″ long dome stake.
- Suitable for dogs up to 150 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Heavy-duty dome stake made of galvanized steel with a black rust-resistant coating.
- Works on easy-in, easy-out principle with a 3″ helix to provide additional stability. Works with all surfaces and soil types.
- Equipped with a 360-degree swivel that allows free pet movement without tangling.
- Comes with a lawn mower stainless-steel wire flag spotter as an added bonus.
- Available in black color and backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer. Instruction manual to use in snow is also included.
Camco Spiral Anchor Tie-Out Stake
Material: 100% single piece forged-steel dome stake with a rust-resistant paint. Steel metal loop for tie-out cables.
Specifications:
- 8 mm. thick and 12″ long spiral stake.
- Suitable for dogs up to 75 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- Spiral tie-out anchor with a corkscrew design and solid galvanized steel construction. Made in the US.
- Comes with a 360-degree 0.25″ swivel ring to attach the tie-out cable. Most suitable for soft and sandy soil.
- Arrowhead design helps in keeping the stake secure. Works well for pets weighing up to 75 lbs.
- Backed by a one year warranty against break-down. Competitively priced at about 5 USD for a single stake.
Boss Pet-Prestige Dome Stake
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Material: 100% single piece forged-steel dome stake with a rust-resistant paint. Steel metal loop for tie-out cables.
Specifications:
- 10-12 mm. thick and 21″ long dome stake.
- Suitable for dogs weighing up to 125 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- Heavy-duty dome stake with a single solid forged steel construction, with a rust-resistant paint coating. Made in China.
- Comes with a metal loop for tie-out leash or cable. The loop is secured by a forged-steel stake cap and provides a 360-degree movement.
- Has two stabilizing wings to provide secure hooking in the ground. Suitable for medium to large pets weighing up to 125 lbs.
- Also works well as a tent or backyard furniture stake.
- Available in assorted bright colors – yellow or orange that are easily visible even in low lights.
Pet Champion Tie Out Stake
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Material: 100% galvanized steel stake. Spiral stake has a silver coating, while dome stakes have rust-resistant paint coating.
Specifications:
- S: 18″ long spiral stake for dogs up to 60 lbs.
- L: 14″ long dome stake for dogs up to 100 lbs.
- XL: 18″ long dome stake for dogs up to 150 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- High-quality dog tie-out stakes made of 100% pure galvanized steel. Made in China for Arizona, US-based company.
- Available in both spiral design for soft soil and dome stake design for rocky and hard soil.
- The spiral stake has a silver anti-rust coating, while the dome stakes have rust-resistant paint to prevent corrosion.
- The dome stake has two stabilizing wings with wide dome head to prevent tangling of cable.
- Available in three sizes for dogs weighing up to 150 lbs. Works with all standard tie-out cables.
Best Dog Tie-outs for two dogs
One of the most common queries regarding tie-outs is how to provide a tangle-free tethering for two or more dogs?
While there is no silver-bullet setup and a 100% tangle-free dog tie-out system for two dogs, there are a few setups that can provide maximum convenience and safety with limited supervision.
If you have small to medium dogs (20-30 lbs.) a dog tie-out setup with a 360-degree Swivel stake and independent tie-out cables can allow enough freedom for the canines to play without tangling.
Some of the best dog tie-out stakes to consider for two dogs are listed below. We have identified these tethering solutions after discussing with multiple dog trainers, experts and analyzing hundreds of product reviews:
- SUREswivel 360-degree Swiveling Pet Tie-Out: As discussed above, this made in the US anchoring system is the original dog tie-out swivel stake that provides secure anchoring in the ground, 360-degree movement and tangle-free attachment to all dogs up to 100-125 lbs. Backed by a lifetime warranty
- K9Compass Tangle Free Dog Tie Out: The next generation dog tie-out stake designed and marketed by Double Dog Run – the manufacturers of the popular two-dog tie-out system. This stake provides tangle-free operation and unlike the SURESwivel, doesn’t require additional tool to install. Can support two dogs weighing up to 200+ lbs. Backed by a two-year warranty.
- Pestairs 360° Swivel Dog Tie Out Stake Dog Anchor: A budget dog tie-out stake made of stainless-steel and chrome/zinc-coated steel. Though advertised to support larger pets, it is most suitable for tethering two pets weighing up to 40-50 lbs. Backed by a lifetime warranty.
- PetSafe Wireless Dog and Cat Containment System: Best-selling pet containment system that provides a secure 0.5 acre circular boundary around your yard without the hassle of burying wire or installing a physical fence ((180 feet in one direction or 5-90 feet all around). Offers 5 different levels of correction based on the pet’s temperament. The package includes the transmiter, an adjustable collar, 50 training flags and manual. Additional transmitters are also available. Backed by a one-year warranty.
- Pet Control HQ Dog Containment System Wireless: 2-in-1 pet containment system that offers benefits of an easy-to-layout wireless pet containment system, plus 492 feet of 20 gauge above-ground or underground dog fence wire. Comes with one or two rechargeable and waterproof, vibration & gentle shock collar system and a three button remote to control up to 3 collars. Backed by a one-year warranty.
- Sit Boo-Boo Electric Dog Fence and Pet Containment System: Budget electric pet containment system that offers a copper wire-based underground or above-ground installation to provide a coverage of up to 955 feet (expandable to up to 5 acres). The collar offers 5 different levels of correction based on the pet’s temperament. Comes with one transmitter, one receiver collar, boundary wire to cover 1.2 acres, training flags, complete installation guide and a eBook training guide. Additional collars and boundary wire can be purchased seperately. Backed by a one-year warranty.
- Type of the dog restraining system
- Building Material of the dog tie-out and stake
- Size of the dog and tie-out
- Additional factors and considerations
- Do not rely on tethering as the primary medium of confinement during wilderness excursions with your pet. If your pet is comfortable sharing space with you, you can instead keep it in your tent during nights.
- Avoid restraining your dog with tie-outs for a very long time and never leave them totally unattended. Keep an eye on the pet and use visual and audio cues to determine the comfort level of the pet when restrained.
- Always pick a dog tie-out with appropriate thickness and weight-rating. Even though your tie-out cable may be advertised to withstand over 100 lbs. parts such as stakes, swivel locks etc. can fail, causing the dog to escape from the restrainer.
- Ensure that you pick a dog tie-out cable that is long enough for the dog to have space to walk around, eat and also do its business. We recommend to never tether with a cable that is less than 10 feet during camping. A 15-30 feet long cable is the best option.
- If you have a choice, prefer using a harness instead of a collar with the tie-out. Some dogs hate the constant neck-tug and a harness provides more comfort and control to the pet.
- If your pet is going to be tied down for an extended period, make sure it has easy access to food, water, bed and shade for resting. This factor also applies to tethering during the nights.
- Train your dog beforehand to be restrained with a tie-out cable. It should not get over-excited with the sounds of nature and hurt itself while chasing some critters. Also make sure that only an adult gets the dogs restrained.
- Avoid using tethering if you are in an area which has animals like coyotes, mountain lions, and bears, which can attack a restrained dog. The best course of action is to avoid taking the canine altogether.
- If you have multiple dogs to tether, keep the “personal equation” between the pets before deciding if they can be allowed to use the same dog tie-out stake or have separate stakes. The tethering cable should not become a source of tug-war between the pets.
Finally a word of advice, even though a product may be advertised to work with larger dogs and provide tangle-free operation, there is no perfect solution to multi-dog tethering and we recommend that you do not leave your pets without supervision when tied down.
Best dog containment fences
If you wish to avoid physical containment solutions and have the budget to invest in a costlier containment solution, then the electric fences are the best options. These fences can provide a hidden wireless or underground as well as visible, over-the-ground containment boundary for one or more dogs.
While a detailed discussion on dog containment fences is a topic for another article, some of the best dog fences available in the market are listed below:
How to pick the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and outdoors?
The market is inundated with different models of dog tie-out cables and stakes with a wide variation in prices. But not every option is durable, reliable and comfortable to the dogs and you should avoid picking a cheap, low-quality dog restraining system for your pet.
Once you have decided on the broad budget that you have, you need to look at a few important factors to separate the wheat from the chaff and pick the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping or other outdoor adventures. These major considerations are summarized below:
Type of the dog restraining system
Before you zero in on the best dog tie-out, you would need to decide upon the type of restraining system you should opt for.
If you are looking for a pet restraining system for wilderness with plenty of trees, you can live with a tie-out cable without the stake. Simply fasten it around the trunk of the tree. You can also look at getting a trolley or pulley system with a rope running between two trees. You have to keep in mind that some campgrounds and communities have laws against trolley or pulley systems, so you should check the local laws before opting for such a system.
On the other hand, if you only have a plain ground, you would need to get a dog tie-out stake, hammer it in the ground and attach the tie-out cable or leash to it. If the soil is hard and solid, you can use a dome-type stake and if it is soft and sandy, then you would have to use a spiral stake.
So, depending upon the terrain and preferences you can pick the most suitable dog tie-out system for your pet.
Building material of the dog tie-out and stake
The manufacturing material of the tie-out cable and stakes is an important factor as it governs the durability, comfort and water protection provided by the restraining systems. Why else do you think there is so much variation in the price of these dog tie-outs?
The best dog tie-out cables have a solid galvanized steel cable with a weather-proof vinyl sheath to provide rust and weather-protection. The snap-locks are also made of steel and have a 360-degree swivel to allow free movement of the cable. The diameter of the cable governs the tensile strength of the cable – thicker the cable, more the load/pull it can handle. Among all the tie-out cables the BV Pets Heavy-Duty Dog Tie-Out Cable and Ben-Mor Zinco Strong Tie-Out Cable have probably the strongest cables and snap-locks that do not fail easily.
With respect to the dog tie-out stakes, the stakes are made of chrome-plated or galvanized steel. The dome-type stakes have a coating or rust-resistant paint. They also have metal wings half-way through the stakes to provide additional stability. All the stakes that we have listed have metal loops or rings to attach the tie-out cable.
The general rule of thumb with the stakes is that longer the stake, deeper it would go in the soil and hence more stability it would provide. But this also means that such stakes would take a longer time to take out – something that can be a big hassle while backpacking. So, go with a stake that is of optimal length for your dog’s weight and size.
Check out the building material of the tie-out cable, stakes and other supporting parts before picking the best dog tie-out for your pooch. If in doubt, pick one of our top choices, as we have listed only the most well-built and durable dog tie-outs in the market.
Size of the dog and tie-out
The length of the dog tie-out cable and the size of the dog are probably the most important factors to consider before picking the best dog tie-out for your pet. An inappropriately sized dog tie-out can be uncomfortable to the canine and may not be durable or reliable. Similar rules apply to the size and thickness of the stake.
Depending upon your dog’s size, pick a dog tie-out cable and stake that can withstand the pull by the dog. If in doubt, size-up to the next size. You would also have to remember that the thicker the cable, the heavier it will be. A cable that is too heavy may be extremely uncomfortable for the pet. Our top pick – the BV Pets Heavy-Duty Dog Tie-Out Cable offers a wide range of selection for dogs from 30 lbs. up to 150 lbs., so you can pick one of the appropriate size.
The length of the tie-out cable is also important. A longer cable gives a bigger playground to the pet to rest, feed, play and even do its business. Do not pick a tie-out cable that is less than 15 feet. We personally prefer a tie-out cable that is at least 20 feet long.
Among stakes, the SUREswivel 360-degree Swiveling Pet Tie-Out provides the most secure tie-out anchoring system, with options like Intellileash Intelli-Stayk Dog Tie-Out Stake and Saker Dog Tie Out Stake not far behind.
Check the size (thickness and length) of the dog tie-out cable and stakes before picking the best option. If you end up with an in-between size, size-up to the next size.
Additional factors and miscellaneous considerations
In addition to the major factors discussed above, there are some other miscellaneous considerations that can make a dog tie-out a preferable option over other tie-outs.
One such consideration is the color combination in which the tie-out cable and stake are available. Reflective colors that are easy to locate and identify even in low lights are always better. Almost all the options that we listed are available in bright colors that are easy to detect even in evenings, so you can pick one as per your preference.
Another consideration is accessories, if any, that come with the dog tie-out systems. Considering that you would almost always need the cable as well as the stake, any combos that offer both the stakes and cables would make the choice more attractive. Petmate Aspen Pet Easyturn Tie-out Stake & Cable is one such option that comes with the stake and cable.
Finally, the most important additional consideration is the warranty and after-sales support provided by the manufacturer. The general rule of thumb is that longer the warranty period, the more reliable and durable the dog tie-out would be. Top manufacturers such as RuffWear and Ben-Mor score big in this category as they offer excellent lifetime warranties on their products. Some other brands offer short-term 90-day to one-year warranties on their products and are still suitable options.
You can look at all these features to determine if they make a specific dog tie-out system a better choice over others.
Things to remember while using dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and outdoors
Tethering the dog with a tie-out cable and stake is something that requires careful and proper implementation. Unsafe tethering can lead to behavioral issues and injuries in pets.
While discussing each and every aspect of using dog tie-outs during camping and other outdoor activities is beyond the scope of this article, here are some basic tips and tricks to follow while restraining your dog using tie-outs:
Keeping these major things in mind would ensure safe restraining of canines and make things easy and comfortable for you and your Fido.
Final thoughts on the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and outdoors
Some dogs just love to explore and romp away at the first opportunity. This inquisitive nature can become a problem while camping, hiking or hunting with dogs. One way to manage this is to tether the dog using a tie-out cable and stake.
In this article, we looked at some of the best dog tie-outs and stakes for camping and other outdoor adventures. The options that we listed provide a safe, secure and reliable way to tether the pets during daytime or nights. We also discussed some of the major factors before picking the best dog tie-out and shared our top picks. Finally, we covered some of the basic safety measures to follow to avoid injuring during tethering.
We hope that you found this article useful and it would help you in picking the best tie-out or stake for your pooch’s next outdoor adventure. Do let us know your feedback by commenting below. Until next time, happy camping with your beloved pet!
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