Today, you will find the best dog ramps. Dogs need devices and gadgets to help their mobility at some point in their lives, regardless of how quick-witted they are. If you have a senior, handicapped, short-legged, large, or a dog recovering from surgery, you must have a dog ramp.
The best dog ramps facilitate the movement of a dog to and from a position that is elevated such as a couch, bed, stairs, or vehicle safely and securely. It minimizes the effort required by the dog.
They are also useful to puppies since these young ones do not have much muscle strength to jump onto your car or on a bed or couch.
Advantages of Best Dog Ramps
- Enables Easier Transportation and Storage> Dog ramps can be easily stowed in the car trunk or the flatbed of your truck. They are generally lightweight meaning that handling, maintaining and cleaning and transporting is very easy.
- Prevent Injuries> The fact that most of these dog ramps are lightweight means that you do not strain your back picking them up, unfolding, or extending them to full use. This minimizes the risk of back injuries.
- Easy to Store> Some dog ramps have a collapsible or telescopic design which allows you to store them even in the most unlikely of places.
- Less Stress on Joints > Dog ramps assist dogs with joint problems. This is particularly useful for dogs that suffer from hereditary joint issues
- Versatile> A dog ramp can be used for more than just cars. It is lightweight and portable meaning that it can be used anywhere to aid your dog.
- Longevity> Ramps are good to use from puppy to adult dogs. They help prevent injuries and joint problems by using the ramp in the early stages of the dog and can still be used for years to come and well into their old age.
8 Best Dog Ramps for Every Situation
Dog ramps are really important for any dog owner. It can be overwhelming to choose the right dog ramp. Do not fret. Here are some of the best dog ramps for you to choose from:
#1) PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp
The PetSTEP folding ramp is one of the best dog ramps. The most notable attribute of these dog ramps is the non-slip soft ridged rubber surface uncommon in other ramps. The rubberized ridge ensures traction in wet and dry environments.
This pet ramp is undoubtedly the most versatile dog ramp out there. It has an industry-leading 500 lb. capacity that holds pets of all shapes and sizes thus preventing them from jumping in and out of vehicles.
Besides, the dog ramp opens and closes in a matter of seconds. What’s more? The ramp boasts unparalleled stability and convenient portability. It has built-in molded ergonomic handles on each side to make carrying and storing easy. The dog ramp is constructed with high-quality materials. If durability is a concern, this ramp got you covered.
It is easy to set up and low on maintenance. When it comes to tidiness, you only need soap and water to clean this ramp. This ramp is a piece of great equipment for both puppies or older dogs as well as those that need special attention. It makes a great addition to a home with dogs.
Features
- Rust and corrosion-resistant
- Cleaned with soap and water
- A unique soft non-slip rubberized walking surface
- Holds up to 500 lbs.
- Reduce arthritis and dysplasia pain due to its sturdy structure
- Lightweight and portable
- Durable as it is made of high-quality materials
- Gentle slope that offers assistance to dogs that are unable to leap onto high surfaces
- No installation required
#2) PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Pet Ramp
Adventures with our canine friends are to die for as they are always fulfilling to both the pet parent and the pet. Some pups aren’t good jumpers and they may have difficulties boarding or alighting from the vehicle.
Give them a helping hand with this telescoping dog ramp. The dog ramps feature a lightweight construction of aluminum. The lightweight design allows for easy carrying and lifting in and out of your car.
Although the pet ramp is light, it is strong and durable and can hold even the largest dogs of up to 300 pounds. The dog ramp gives your pooch the freedom to comfortably walk in and out of the vehicle independently.
Another admirable attribute of this dog ramp is its adjustable length. This adjustable length lets you customize the length to suit different situations. The dog ramp has a high traction surface and side rails that enable your four-legged friend to walk up and down the ramp with confidence without slipping or falling.
Once the pup hops in the car, you don’t need to worry about the storage. Simply slide the ramp in and lock it with the safety latch to allow a seamless trip. Versatility is another positive facet of this dog ramp. It enables your dog to access the vehicle, furniture, grooming tables and much more safely.
Features
- The telescoping design makes it extremely easy to use
- A convenient handle and safety release latch to prevent accidental opening
- Easy to clean using mild detergent
- Simple to use as no tools are needed
- Ensures stable access to vehicle side doors
- Lightweight hence easy to carry
- Easy to store
- High traction walking surface provides a sure footing
- Adjustable from 39” to 72”
#3) Doggie Ramps Adjustable Pet Ramp
The Doggie Adjustable Pet Ramp is our next recommendation for the best dog ramps. This dog ramp is specially designed to give your pup a helping hand when accessing hard-to-reach places.
It can be adjusted from 14 to 24 inches making it suitable for various furniture applications. The pet ramp can be used to help your furry friend get out of bed, couch, or anywhere your pet roams.
It weighs only 18 lbs. and accommodates dogs of up to 200 lbs. Storage of the ramp is made easier by the collapsible design. The other thing that makes this ramp stand out among the best dog ramps is its superior construction.
The ramp is made of high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting use. The ramp comes fully assembled eliminating the hassle of finding the tools to set it up at home. Give your dog the freedom to roam more at home with this best-in-class dog ramp.
Features
- Non-slip paw traction carpet
- Collapsible making storage very easy
- Made in the USA
- Can be adjusted to various heights to suit your needs
- Durable as it is made of high-quality materials
- Comes fully assembled
- Designed for all dogs and holds up to 200 lbs.
#4) Zinus 4 Step Easy Pet Stairs
The Zinus 4 Step ranks highly among the best dog ramps. The equipment is made of a soft yet sturdy high-density foam. It is suitable for dogs that haven’t learned how to jump or those unable to jump. The 4 step stairs make it easy for small and aging dogs to reach the chair or bed. The stairs zip quickly together without requiring tools.
The 4 Step Easy Pet Stairs are fitted with a plush cover that can be removed easily for cleaning. The cover is machine washable removing the hassle of having to clean it by hand all the time.
The Pet stairs are lightweight so you can easily move them from one place to another. Other than effortless carrying, the pet stairs are easy to assemble. All you need to do is attach the top step and zip the cover.
Features
- Easy to assemble
- Soft high-density foam makes it easy to climb
- Cozy cover that is machine washable
- Ideal for indoor use
- Available in two heights; 18 and 24 inches tall
- Lightweight hence easy to carry
- Safer than hard plastic or metal and easier on the paws of your dog
- Removable top step
#5) PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp for Dogs
This wooden dog ramp measures 25 inches tall and hence facilitates access to taller beds. It is made for dogs weighing up to 120 pounds. It has a heavy-duty carpet surface that provides traction for your furry friend to walk up and down the ramp confidently without slipping or falling.
Being one of the best dog ramps, the PetSafe Cozy Up ramp is durable. It has a tough and strong wooden construction that guarantees long-term use. It comes in a cherry and white wood finish making it beautiful.
The dog ramp is an ideal solution for pups that are too scared to use pet stairs and dogs with physical limitations that make access to the bedside steps a hassle. Another positive attribute of this dog ramp is the effortless assembly. In a matter of 15 minutes, you will have set up the ramp and it will be ready for your pooch.
Features
- Durable as it has a tough and strong wood construction
- Measures 70x 16x 25 inches
- Heavy-duty carpet cover prevents your dog from sliding
- Decorative with a white and cherry wood finish
- Holds dogs weighing up to 120 pounds
- A large top landing area
- Slope s gentle and long to enable easier climbing
- Designed to fit next to your side table
#6) Pet Gear Reflective Extra Wide Dog Ramp
The Pet Gear Reflective Extra Wide Dog Ramp allows you to give your beloved pet a boost and confidence as it enables him to gain easy access to places that are hard to reach such as climbing into a car.
The other thing that makes the Pet Gear dog ramp stand out among the best dog ramps is the highly visible reflective material. The material helps guide your pet up and down the ramp reducing chances of accidents.
Besides, the reflectors ensure maximum security by increasing the visibility of the dog ramp when in use. The rubber grippers fitted at the bottom of the ramp keep it in a stable position.
Additionally, it is skid-resistant even when wet ensuring that your dog is steady all the time. Besides that, the ramp has a folding design that reduces storage space either at home or on the go and also comes with a carry handle that makes portability super easy.
Features
- Reflective material is highly visible helps to guide your dog up and down the ramp
- Built-in handle makes portability easy
- Foldable for compact storage or travel
- The surface is slip-resistant for sure footing
- Rubber grippers at the bottom keep the ram steady
- Side safety reflectors ensure maximum visibility when the ramp is in use
- Holds up to 200 pounds of dog weight
- Wide dog ramp made for vans, cars and SUVs
#7) PetSafe Folding Pet Steps
Pet Steps helps your dog to easily reach his favorite place that is hard to access. They have a unique construction that accommodates dogs weighing up to 150 lbs. The steps are lightweight as they weigh only 5 pounds making them easy to carry wherever you need. They keep your furry friend from sliding and falling when using the ramp to get on or off of furniture.
Pet Steps come in tan and gray color options. They make the life of older dogs, smaller dogs and those recovering from illnesses or injuries more comfortable. They are great for beds or couches. The stairs can also come in handy when the dog wants to climb into a vehicle.
Features
- Durable
- Accommodates dogs weighing up to 150 pounds
- Easy to store as they fold down flat
- Measures 24x 16x 20 inches
- Available in two color choices; tan and grey
- Made in the USA
- Requires no assembly
- Modern styling
- Super lightweight as they weigh only 5 lb.
- Easy to clean with mild detergent
- Safety side rails that are built-in
- Includes non-skid feet
#8) Gen7Pets Natural-Step Dog Ramp
The Gen7Pets Ramp helps your pet enter the vehicle, climb on the couch, or access other places that are hard to reach with much ease. It enables your buddy to feel extra secure as it has a poly-grass material even as it uses its claws to get an additional grip. The grass is soft so it will not scratch the paw pads of the dog or the interiors of your vehicle as it is so soft.
The ramp is sturdy and accommodates up to 250 lbs. It is also very compact and locks automatically when it is folded up. Besides, the ramp has a soft rubber handle that is easy and comfortable to move. It has full-length rubber grippers on both sends to offer a secure placement.
Features
- Safe grip artificial turf tread is gentle on the paw pads
- Holds up to 250 pounds
- Both ends have a rubber grip for extra ground traction
- Long length for a gradual ramp slope
- Folds easily for compact storage
- Tethers to a car latch for extra security
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Best Dog Ramps Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Dog Ramps
Safety
The right dog ramp should have stability. A more stable platform is safer to use for your dog. Check out stabilizers at both ends of the ramp, one at the top and another at the bottom. These are typically built of rubber grip materials as they provide exceptional anti-slip properties.
Some ramps also come with secure latches that can be attached to a component of your vehicle to keep it in place. If the dog ramp has a folding design, you must check the security of the lock mechanism so that it stays unfolded and in place.
Look for the same mechanisms that will lock the sliding panel into place if the ramp is telescopic. Nevertheless, consider other features such as reflective strips, guard rails and side railings.
Ease of Handling
The ramp’s weight is really important to put in mind. You do not want to strain yourself loading and unloading it onto and from your vehicle, fixing it up for your furry friend to walk on, and storing it. It should thus be easy to handle.
Sturdiness and Durability
Typically, ramps that are heavier have more solid construction. However, a lightweight ramp doesn’t necessarily mean that it is structurally unsound. Steel and wood are the best options when it comes to strength and durability.
On the downside, wood is expensive and subject to the effects of weather. Metal or steel can be extremely heavy, though aluminum can make it light. Vinyl products are usually lightweight and durable as well.
Nonetheless, you have to check the patency of the joints especially in folding and telescopic variants as where the two panels meet is often a point of least strength. The ramp that you choose should be sturdy enough to handle the weight of the dog without wobbling or toppling.
Length
Ensure that the ramp is long enough to support the size of your dog. A general rule of thumb is that the ramp should be at least 3 feet long for the bed or couch while a car ramp should be at least 5 to 6 feet long depending on the height of the car.
Personal Preferences
Consider your personal preferences before buying a ramp for your four-legged friend. Look at the price, color and ease of use. If the space in your house is limited, you may want a dog ramp that that is lightweight and more portable and one that suits your needs and the needs of the dog as well.
Purpose of The Ramp
There are various types of ramps often based on their purpose. Some are specifically designed for home furniture pieces like beds, sofas, or couches. Some are designed purposefully for several flights of stairs.
Others are made for vehicles specifically. Besides dog ramps come in different styles. Some look more like elaborate stairs complete with railings and steps that are soft and padded.
On the other hand, some look more like a traditional ramp that is straight. Whatever the case, be sure of what you are looking for. It is a great idea to choose one that you can use at home and vehicle as well and anywhere else in between.
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Safety Tips When Using a Dog Ramp
- Train Your Dog
This is a great way of ensuring safety. There are high chances of falls and injuries if your furry friend is not trained properly to walk up and down the ramp. Proper training leads to your pooch being more confident when using it.
- Place the Ramp on a Stable and Even Ground
Ensure that you place the ramp on a ground that is level and firm. This reduces movement of the ramp and improves the safety features that are associated with the dog ramp
- Choose the Right Ramp
Ensure that you understand the things that you should look for in a dog ramp so that you ensure greater safety for your four-legged friend. The ramp must be easy to use, stable and safe to qualify as a good selection.
- Supervise
Dogs usually tend to jump off from the elevated platform rather than walk up or down the ramp. This is especially so if they are not properly trained. Training is important as well as supervision so that your dog knows that you will always be present to provide support and guidance through the process of walking up or down the ramp.
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How to Train a Pooch to Use a Ramp
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Introduce the Ramp
Present the ramp in a way that appears less intimidating. Place it in a place that the dog will be comfortable with such as the living room. Put it on the floor and just ignore it. Pay no special attention to it and leave it lying flat on the floor as you proceed to do your normal duties. Once the dog goes near the ramp. Sit beside it and use a positive word such as “yes”. This indicates that the dog is ready for the next step.
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Create a Positive Association with the Ramp
Place the dog’s favorite toys on top of the ramp while it is still lying flat on the ground and allow him to eat treats off it. The dog will form a positive association with the ramp so that he is no longer reluctant to approach it.
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Begin Asking for More
Once positive associations have been made and your furry friend has more confidence to approach the ramp, begin to ask him for more. Offer a treat once he uses his paws to interact with the paws.
Use positive words. Once all the four paws are up on the ramp, reward the dog with treats as you praise him. Let him repeat the behavior severally until he understands that he will be rewarded highly f he stands on the ramp using his four paws.
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Practice Walking Across the Ramp
Here, you can use your hand with a treat to entice him across and then feed him the treat once he has made it across.
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Fade the Food Lure
Begin fading the food lure as you do not want the dog to be over-dependent on the sight of the treat. You can pretend that you have the treat in your hand when it’s empty and use your hand to guide him through the ramp. Use a word of encouragement once the dog has walked across the ramp.
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Add a Slight Incline
Once the dog is confident walking across the ramp, add a slight incline to your training. Gradually increase the incline. You can begin by placing something solid underneath the ramp such as a few books. Ensure that you do not increase the incline too much as you start.
Continue encouraging your dog to go up and down the ramp with a slight incline. You can give your dog treats once in a while if he is doing well in the training process until he has mastered properly using the inclined ramp.
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FAQs About Best Dog Ramps
Q: Why Do I Need a Dog Ramp for My Dog?
Certain dogs are more prone to injury than others. Everyday activity from jumping up on the couch and hopping down from a vehicle can lead to injuries like elbow trauma, injury to footpads, leg sprains, slipping of kneecaps and breakage of toenails. A dog ramp ensures that your dog is safe as he goes about his daily activities.
Q: What is a Good Angle for a Dog Ramp?
The rise of the ramp should incline to an angle between 18-25 degrees. An inclined angle of 18 to 20 degrees is ideal for small dog breeds. Medium size dog breeds require an incline of between 22 and 25 degrees.
Conclusion
Having a dog ramp is imperative as it makes your life as a dog parent and that of your dog easier. It greatly helps your dog when it comes to mobility. Having the right dog ramp, such as any of the ones explained above leads to a healthy and happy dog while minimizing stress for you.