Here are the Best Dog Ramps

Written by Abby Parks
Updated: November 26, 2022
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Many dogs can benefit from using a dog ramp. Senior dogs may develop arthritis or other joint issues, small dogs could benefit from assistance getting up on higher couches, beds, or vehicles, and other dogs that are recovering from surgery may be dealing with mobility issues. Dog stairs or dog steps may help some, but ramps are often easier for older dogs, and even younger dogs, who need an extra boost.

Ramps for dogs are available in a variety of sizes and designs for both indoor and outdoor use. You can find ramps for cars, SUVs, trucks, couches, beds, and other indoor furniture. Some ramps are carpeted, while others feature a weather-resistant design that is ideal for outdoor use. There are ramps for small dogs, as well as ramps for large dogs.

As you can see, there will be a lot of options available when you are searching for a ramp for your pup. We’ve put this article together to present you with some of the best dog ramps that are currently on the market to help you narrow down your options and quickly find the solution that will work for your pup and fits within your budget.

  1. PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp
    • 72" portable dog ramp
    • Non-slip with siderails, supports up to 400lbs
    • Telescoping design, made of sturdy aluminum
    • Weighs 13lbs
    Check Amazon
  2. PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp
    • Cherry finish furniture grade pet bed ramp
    • High-traction carpet surface
    • Dimensions 70 in. L x 16 in. W x 25 in.
    • Supports up to 120lbs
    Check Amazon
  3. Pawnotch Adjustable Pet Ramp
    • Dog or cat ramp for bed or couch
    • Adjustable from 14"-24" height
    • Paw traction mat to prevent slipping
    • Supports up to 200lbs
    Check Amazon
  4. Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps
    • Portable ramp stairs for pet access beds, couches, and other furniture
    • Made of sturdy foam covered in fleece fabric
    • Available in multiple colors/designs
    • Sizes small to large
    Check Chewy Check Amazon

The Top Picks for the Best Dog Ramps: Ranked

#1 Best Overall: PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp

The PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp is our overall top pick for the best dog ramp.

This safety tested ramp with a high-traction walking surface and side rails is very strong and durable. It can hold pets weighing up to 400 pounds, meaning it is suitable for all sizes and breeds. It also features a telescoping design that makes it adjustable for use with different vehicles.

The top of the ramp features a weather-resistant, easy-to-grip tread design to make sure dogs can safely get in and out of the car at all times. When not in use, you can slide the ramp back together and latch it in place for more compact storage. Plus it weighs just 13 pounds, making it easy to set up, disassemble, move, and put away.

However, customers reported that they wish there was a lock to keep the sections from sliding together when the ramp is extended.

Pros and Cons of the PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp

ProsCons
This ramp features a high-traction walking surface with side rails.There is no locking system to keep the sections from sliding back together when the ramp is extended.
It is suitable for pets weighing up to 400 pounds.
The extendable design makes it suitable for most vehicle sizes.
When not in use it can simply be slid back together for easy storage.
Best Overall Dog Ramp
PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp
  • 72" portable dog ramp
  • Non-slip with siderails, supports up to 400lbs
  • Telescoping design, made of sturdy aluminum
  • Weighs 13lbs
Check Amazon

2. Best for Beds: PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp

If you need a ramp for indoor use, particularly in the bedroom, the PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp is a great choice.

The safety-tested ramp has a heavy-duty carpet covering that works to make it more visually appealing while also helping ensure that dogs won’t slip while going up or down. If dog stairs won’t work for your pup, we think this is a great alternative to consider. It is available with a white or cherry wood finish to coordinate with different bedroom decors.

This ramp is 70 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 25 inches tall, making it the perfect height to help dogs gain access to most beds. It can support up to 120 pounds.

Just be prepared, because the assembly instructions for this model aren’t the easiest to follow. The other drawback of this ramp is that the height is not adjustable.

Pros and Cons of the PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp

ProsCons
This ramp features a carpet covering to provide a safe and secure walking surface.The height of this ramp is not adjustable.
It can support dogs weighing up to 120 pounds.The assembly instructions are not easy to follow.
This ramp is 70 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 25 inches tall which is the ideal height for most beds.
It has a stylish white or cherry wood finish.
Best for Beds
PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp
  • Cherry finish furniture grade pet bed ramp
  • High-traction carpet surface
  • Dimensions 70 in. L x 16 in. W x 25 in.
  • Supports up to 120lbs
Check Amazon

3. Most Adjustable: Pawnotch Adjustable Pet Ramp

The Pawnotch Adjustable Pet Ramp features the most adjustable design which makes it a great choice for a variety of reasons.

The best feature of this ramp is that it is fully adjustable, allowing you to set the height to the ideal level to help your dog access the furniture in your house. You can choose to set it at heights of 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 inches.

This ramp has a features Pawnotch’s Paw Traction Mat with a ribbed design to prevent dogs from slipping while using it. The ramp is also suitable for dogs weighing up to 200 pounds and when you don’t need to use the ramp it can be collapsed flat for storage.

However, despite it being able to support up to 200 pounds, some pet owners found that their larger dogs found it a bit too narrow for them to feel comfortable on.

Pros and Cons of the Pawnotch Adjustable Pet Ramp

ProsCons
This ramp is fully adjustable at heights of 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 inches.It can be too narrow for larger dogs.
It features a non-slip ribbed mat for added traction.
When not in use it can be folded flat and stored away.
It can support dogs weighing up to 200 pounds.
Best Adjustable
Pawnotch Adjustable Pet Ramp
  • Dog or cat ramp for bed or couch
  • Adjustable from 14"-24" height
  • Paw traction mat to prevent slipping
  • Supports up to 200lbs
Check Amazon

4. Best Step Ramp: Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps

If you prefer a set of steps for your pet then we recommend the Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps.

These soft foam stairs are perfect for giving your dog a carefree boost onto the bed or sofa. This product has a non-slip bottom and soft outer lining while the soft foam absorbs impact on your dogs joints. machine. The inner foam material is CertiPUR-US certified to exclude potentially harmful chemicals and substances.

It’s available in different heights from small to large. The small is 13.5 inches tall (windowsill height), the medium is 18 inches (most sofas and beds), and the 22.5 inch large version gives your dog access to any higher surfaces.

As they’re lightweight, these steps are easy to move around to any spot as needed. It also comes in 17 different color and the cover comes off so you can easily remove it to switch to a different color or throw it into the washing

However, one drawback is that this ramp is really only intended for small and medium-sized dogs. Larger dogs may be too heavy for the foam construction to support over time. Another potential issue is that, though the ramp is designed to be as stable as possible, clumsier dogs may find that the steps get a little wobbly.

Pros and Cons of the Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps

ProsCons
These steps contain a soft inner foam that is CertiPUR-US certified as free from harmful chemicals and substances.These steps are only suitable for small and medium-sized dogs.
It is lightweight and easy to move around.Some dogs can find the foam design of the steps a little wobbly.
It is available in several different sizes which are suitable for couches, beds, or higher surfaces.
Best Step Ramp
Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps
  • Portable ramp stairs for pet access beds, couches, and other furniture
  • Made of sturdy foam covered in fleece fabric
  • Available in multiple colors/designs
  • Sizes small to large
Check Chewy Check Amazon

The Different Types of Dog Ramps: Pros and Cons Compared

Extendable Ramps for Vehicles

ProsCons
These ramps often feature a collapsible or folding design to store in the trunk.They are usually not carpeted or as soft as other ramps.
The adjustable length is ideal for use with taller vehicles.
They are weather-resistant and designed for outdoor use.

Ramps for Home Use

ProsCons
Many are carpeted to keep dogs more comfortable.They are not as long as extendable vehicle ramps for higher surfaces.
Most are very durable and can hold a lot of weight.Some don’t collapse for storage and can take up a lot of space.
They are great for beds or the couch.

Step Ramps

ProsCons
Steps are wider and longer than those designed for humans.They are bulky and difficult to store.
Most and soft and carpeted which is easy on a dog’s joints.These ramps can still be difficult for some older dogs or dogs with mobility issues to use.
They are not adjustable for different heights

Our Criteria: What to Look For in a Dog Ramp

We researched and compared many different ramps in our quest to find the best dog ramps. These are the biggest factors we considered when gauging the usefulness of all the different available dog ramps.

Safety

You definitely don’t want to risk any slipping or falling. So it’s important for a dog ramp to have a solid and durable construction with features like grippy, non-slip surfaces. Side rails are another great safety feature. Overall, a dog ramp should be stable, safety-tested, and rated to sustain well over your dog’s actual weight.

Ease of Use

The ramp should be lightweight and easy to move and set up. Ideally, you should also be able to fold it up into a compact shape to store it away when you don’t need it. It’s going to be underfoot, so it should be simple and quick to clean, too.

Of course, you also want the ramp to be easy for your dog to use. After all, the whole point is to make it easier for your dog to get up places. Especially if your dog is a senior or has some mobility issues, you don’t want something too steep, and you may even want a soft walking surface that takes some of the impact off your pal’s joints.

Versatility

Does the ramp work for different purposes like sofas, beds, and cars? Is the size, length, or height adjustible?

Aesthetics

It’s not the most important factor to consider, but it’s definitely a plus. If your new dog ramp is going to be a long-term fixture in your home, you want it to jive with the decor of your home. As safe, durable, and practical as a ramp may be, you may not be thrilled to have a clunky or utiitarian looking ramp taking up space in the living room or bedroom.

Some ramps are beautifully designed with stained wood accents, luxurious materials, and a range of color and pattern options. Why not invest in a dog ramp that naturally feels like it belongs in your home?

Up Next…

About the Author

Abby Parks has authored a fiction novel, theatrical plays, short stories, poems, and song lyrics. She's recorded two albums of her original songs, and is a multi-instrumentalist. She has managed a website for folk music and written articles on singer-songwriters, folk bands, and other things music-oriented. She's also a radio DJ for a folk music show. As well as having been a pet parent to rabbits, birds, dogs, and cats, Abby loves seeking sightings of animals in the wild and has witnessed some more exotic ones such as Puffins in the Farne Islands, Southern Pudu on the island of Chiloe (Chile), Penguins in the wild, and countless wild animals in the Rocky Mountains (Big Horn Sheep, Mountain Goats, Moose, Elk, Marmots, Beavers).

Here are the Best Dog Ramps FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Are dog ramps worth it?

Every dog is different, but many owners feel that purchasing a dog ramp is definitely worth it. They can be a true lifesaver for older dogs and for large dogs who are dealing with mobility issues and can’t get themselves upstairs, onto furniture, or into a vehicle. Lifting a large dog can be a challenge for many owners and can make it more likely for either the owner of the dog to get injured in the process. Ramps can be used for cars, SUVs, and for trucks, making it possible to transport your pup to the vet or to bring them to other locations with you.

Ramps can also be useful for small dogs. Many small dogs can’t get themselves up into a vehicle or onto a couch or bed. Ramps for the couch can help them climb up on their own and can make it easier to get down without potentially injuring themselves. You can find ramps to match different budgets as well, making it easier to ensure your dog is able to continue to access the car and furniture in your home.

Are ramps better than stairs for old dogs?

The choice between dog stairs and a dog ramp for older dogs can be tricky. If your dog handles the stairs in your house OK, but is just having difficulty jumping up into the car or onto furniture as they once were, buying dog steps may solve your problem.

However, if your dog is having trouble with doing the stairs in your home, then purchasing dog steps isn’t going to help them enough. In these cases, you should look for a dog ramp to purchase.

What slope should a dog ramp be?

The appropriate slope for a dog ramp will vary based on the size of the dog. An incline of 18 to 20 degrees is typically recommended for smaller dogs, while larger dogs will do OK with a slightly steeper slope around 22 to 25 degrees. Both of these inclines are steeper than what you would find with a wheelchair ramp, but that is because the center of gravity for a canine is lower than that of a human.

How do I choose a ramp for my dog?

To choose a ramp for your dog, consider the size of your dog, the length and slope of the ramp, and the location(s) where you plan to use the ramp. The right ramp for couch use may look quite different from a ramp for SUVs, for cars, or for trucks. Additionally, the best ramp for small dogs will also likely be different than the best ramp for large dogs.

Are ramps easier than stairs?

Ramps can be easier overall than stairs for older dogs with joint issues. For dogs that are having a hard time handling the steps in a home, a ramp will provide a more even surface that will be easier for them to maneuver.

Are stairs bad for dogs hips?

Stairs can pose a risk for a dog’s hips. When puppies of breeds that are more prone to hip dysplasia frequently use the stairs, it can increase their risks of developing hip dysplasia.

Going up the stairs can be particularly challenging for some dogs who have already developed hip issues.

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