the best setup ive used is to cut about a 30" t-post and weld 4 link of chain 1" from the end. pound the post into the ground so that it is covered up and the chain is sticking out. then attach your cold link and chain. this eliminates any place for sticks and debris to tangle up and short chain your dog.
I did this setup the other day and like it so far...I can disconnect the chain from the 3other links and mow over if I want to without being worried about tearing anything up