It’s hard to think that one day your dog will be old or unable to climb the stairs or jump in the bed with you. Maybe that day has already come and now you are looking for dog ramps that will allow your pooch to move as he used to.
However, even if your dog isn’t showing any signs of slowing down, he can benefit from using a dog ramp, especially if he is overweight or susceptible to joint and bone problems.
Truth be told, it’s never too early to invest in your dog’s health and start using a dog ramp to protect his muscles and joints!
In this article, we’ll take a look at five different products to help you find the best dog ramp that will assist your dog to climb in the bed or your car with ease!
Best Dog Ramps Reviewed
Whether you are looking for a dog ramp for a senior dog with mobility problems or a way to prevent joint strain in a larger pooch, we got you covered! Take a look at the in-depth reviews of the five best dog ramps that will help your pooch move with ease.
Pet Gear Stramp Stair and Ramp Combination
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The Pet Gear Stramp Stair and Ramp Combination is specifically designed for smaller dogs who need some extra help to get on the sofa or bed. The rubber feet and sturdy construction make this ramp ideal for senior dogs with mobility problems.
Product Highlights
- Rubber grippers on the bottom
- For pets up to 150 pounds
- Measures 28”L x 16”W x 16”H
The removable and machine washable supertraX mat is the thing we like the most about this doggy ramp. It’s soft and won’t chafe your dog’s paws, but at the same time provides good traction and allows your dog to remain stable while using the ramp.
The weight limit of 150 pounds, make this ramp ideal for older small dogs with hip dysplasia or arthritis. The ramp itself weighs only 8.7 pounds, thus it’s lightweight and portable.
On the other hand, the ramp’s slope might be too steep for very small dogs to use. So if you own a Chihuahua or a Toy Poodle, you might need to consider another product.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to assemble
- Ideal for indoor use
- Rubber grippers
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- The slope is too steep for really small dogs
PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp
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The PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp is a great option if you are looking for a way to help your dog to get in and out of the car painlessly. This brand has a long history of making products for pets and you can rest assured that their folding pet ramps are of the highest quality.
Product Highlights
- Supports pets who weigh up to 150 pounds
- Ramp measures 62”L x 16”W x 4”H
- Raised rails
The greatest thing about this ramp is that it’s super lightweight, weighing only 10 pounds. As other dog fold ramps, this one can be used for cars, trucks, and SUVs, and will make loading your pooch for a ride so much easier.
The only drawback of this ramp is the sandpaper-like traction that makes some dogs feel uncomfortable. However, you can fix this problem by gluing a softer mat or a carpet.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Folds and locks in place
- Rubber feet keep the ramp stable
- Raised railings provide a sense of security
Cons:
- Traction surface might be uncomfortable for some dogs
Pet Gear Free Standing Ramp For Dogs
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The Pet Gear Free Standing Ramp For Dogs features a patented free-standing design, which means that the ramp can support itself. Consequently, you won’t have to attach it to your vehicle and can use it indoors and outdoors.
Product Highlights
- For dogs who weigh up to 200 pounds
- Measures 56”L x 16”W x 23”H
- Foldable for easy storage
The things we like the most about this heavy-duty dog ramp are the raised edges that increase security and the supertraX tread. Besides being removable and easy to wash, the tread supports stability and will protect your dog’s paws.
The downside of this ramp is that it might be too steep for larger dogs with mobility problems.
Pros:
- Can be used indoors and outdoors
- Easy to fold and carry
- The carpet can be removed and washed
- Heavy-duty and stable
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide adequate traction for larger dogs
TOBBI 62” Bi-fold Portable Dog Ramp
The TOBBI 62” Bi-fold Portable Dog Ramp is a great option if you like to drive with your dog often and are looking for a way to load him into the car. Featuring a space-saving design, this bi-fold ramp is lightweight, portable, and easy to store.
Product Highlights
- High traction walking surface
- Measures 62”L x 16”W
- For dogs weighing up to 200 pounds
The thing we like the most about this ramp is that it’s 62 inches high, and creates a gentle slope for larger dogs with hip dysplasia and mobility problems. Furthermore, for its size, this ramp is very lightweight, weighing only 10 pounds.
On the other hand, this ramp may be a bit too narrow for large and giant dogs, and make them uncomfortable to use it.
Pros:
- Four anti-slip rubber feet for extra stability
- A non-slip textured walking surface
- Folds in half and easy to store
- Ideal for dogs who travel a lot
Cons:
- The return shipping may cost more than the actual ramp
Pet Gear Travel Lite Bi-Fold Ramp for Cats/Dogs
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The Pet Gear Travel Lite Bi-Fold Ramp for Cats and Dogs is a great option if you are looking for a sturdy and stable ramp that will help your dog to get in and out of the car. Unlike the Pet Gear tri-fold ramp, this one folds in half and is very easy to carry and store.
Product Highlights
- Rubber grippers on the bottom
- Measures 42”L x 16”W x 4”H
- Built-in handle for portability
The thing we like about this folding pet ramp is its heavy-duty construction and a weight capacity of up to 200 pounds. And although ideal for travel and cars, you can also use this ramp indoors to aid your dog to climb on the bed or couch.
The downside of this ramp is that the edges aren’t carpeted and can cause a dog to slip. So, you should either be near the ramp whenever your dog is using it or glue extra carpeting on the edges.
Pros:
- Carpeting is removable and easy to wash
- The ramp is easy to fold and store
- Heavy-duty but lightweight
- Extra stable thanks to rubber grippers
Cons:
- The carpeting doesn’t provide enough traction for large dogs
Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Ramp
Choosing a smart ramp for your pooch might not be as easy as just picking one and taking it home. To find a ramp that will work for you and your pooch consider the following things:
Car Height / Platform Height
If you and your pooch like to travel together a lot, the height of your car is probably the most important thing you’ll have to consider. Once you measure the height of your back seat or trunk, you should also factor in your dog’s mobility.
This way, you will find a ramp with a suitable incline that will allow your dog to get in and out of the care without putting an additional strain on his muscles and joints.
Ramp Length
While it might not seem important, the ramp’s length is one of the key features you’ll need to consider.
Longer ramps usually have lower incline and are more suitable for dogs with aching muscles, bone, and joint problems (source). However, longer ramps take more space, so you might find it impossible to use one in a small apartment.
Dog Mobility
Your dog’s mobility is also an important thing to consider when shopping for pet stairs or ramps. If your pooch doesn’t have any joint problems, you can get any type of ramp and even those with climbing slopes (source).
However, if your dog already has some mobility problems you should get a ramp with an easy slope and no more than 18 degrees’ inclination.
Slope
Depending on the inclination angle, you can pick between climber slope, normal slope, and easy slope.
Dog ramps with climber slope are ideal for young and healthy dogs and can be used to prevent any joint and bone injuries caused by too much jumping (source). On the other hand, ramps with normal slope are a good option for older dogs who are experiencing minor mobility issues.
Ramps with the easy slope are specially designed for dogs who already suffer from some type of bone or joint problems, and are really a must-have for all senior dogs.
Mat
Whether your dog has mobility issues or not, the ramp should provide enough traction and ensure that his paws are always firm and stable. Hence, look for dog stairs and ramps that have a non-slip mat or surface that will keep your pooch steady and help him feel secure.
Durability
One of the first things you should look for in a dog ramp is if it’s sturdy and durable enough to support your dog’s weight. Most ramps nowadays are made either from PVC plastic, metal, or wood.
Dog ramps made from PVC are durable, lightweight, and can be used outdoors. On the other hand, metal ramps are definitely more durable, but are generally heavy, hard to move around, and can rust if used in rain.
While they look nice and are durable, wooden dog ramps can only be used indoors and can be cumbersome to move. Ultimately, it all comes down to your individual preferences.
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Features to Look For In The Best Dog Ramp
Truth be told, you won’t go shopping for a dog ramp every other day so you must get it right the first time! Here are a few important features you should look for:
Reflectors
If you plan to use a dog ramp in low light conditions, you should consider paying extra for a product that has reflective markings. This way, you can rest assured that your pooch and the ramp will be visible to other vehicles and passersby during dusk and dawn.
Weight
While lighter ramps are easier to carry and store, they aren’t always stable enough to support a larger dog. So if you have a large, giant, or an obese pooch consider getting a heavier ramp that won’t wobble.
Safety Latch
Safety latches are generally used on telescoping pet ramps to prevent the panels from sliding.
Handle
A handle is one of those features that can make your life easier but isn’t essential. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if you need a handle or not.
Related Questions:
What is the best pet ramp?
The best dog ramps are Pet Gear Stramp Stair and Ramp Combination, PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp, PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp, TOBBI 62” Bi-fold Portable Dog Ramp, and Pet Gear Travel Lite Bi-Fold Ramp for Cats and Dogs.
Are stairs or a ramp better for dogs?
Dog stairs are a better option for dogs who can still use household stairs and don’t have any serious mobility problems. Dog ramps, on the other hand, have a gentler slope and are more suitable for older dogs who have trouble jumping and climbing.
What is the best dog ramp for an SUV?
The PetStep Original Folding Pet Ramp is the best dog ramp for SUVs. It’s designed to hold up to 500 pounds, can be folded in half, and is a great option for dogs who suffer from hip dysplasia, arthritis, or ones who are recovering from surgery.
What angle should a dog ramp be?
Ideally, the angle of the ramp should create an incline of 18 to 25 degrees. This type of angle is suitable for all dogs regardless of their size and gives them a chance to use the ramp comfortably.
How do you train a dog to walk up a ramp?
For start, you should place the ramp on the ground and let your dog practice walking on it like that. Use treats and positive reinforcement to encourage your dog to walk across the ramp. Once your pooch is comfortable, raise the ramp and encourage your dog to climb onto it.
Conclusion
There comes a point in every dog’s life when jumping, running, and walking can become difficult. But as hard as it is to see your pooch age and experience mobility problems, not everything is lost.
By investing in a dog ramp, you can ensure that your senior pooch can still keep you company on the sofa or climb in the bed with you. Keep in mind every dog can benefit from using dog steps and ramps regardless of his size or age.
Whether your pooch is still young or is showing signs of slowing down, a dog ramp will protect his joints and make his life so much easier.
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