Long gone are the days when the majority of people treated dogs like just another piece of property. Today dogs are more like family members than just another tool. We give them love and they love us back. Dogs stand by us when others would walk away. With this in mind, it’s only right to give them the best life possible. One way to do this is by helping your dog to move around freely.
Some dogs seem to be able to go just about anywhere. If they’re young, energetic, and equipped with long legs the hard part of dog ownership is keeping them away from the places they shouldn’t be. But for other dogs it’s the opposite challenge, helping them to climb up steep and uneven surfaces. This is why the pet ramp was invented.
A pet ramp is a portable ramp that is built to help animals move places they couldn’t reach with their four paws alone. They help dogs safely climb out of cars, up stairs, and onto your bed for an evening of snuggles. A dog ramp can be a great investment if you want to protect your dog’s legs and help them as they age .
Not just any ramp will do. At first glance it might seem like all pet ramps are just about the same but this is incorrect. Many factors separate one ramp from the next. If you want your dog to have the best experience possible you need to find a ramp that’s fit for them. That’s why we created this guide, to help you find the right ramp for you and your dog. In it, we will give you overviews of the top ramps on the market. Also, we’ll give you tips and tricks to keep in mind as you shop for your ramp and as you put it to use. We worked hard to ensure this guide is as helpful and accurate as possible because you deserve the best. It is our sincere hope that this guide improves life for you and your dog.
TOP 5 DOG RAMPS
PETSTEP FOLDING PET RAMP

FEATURES
70 inches long and 17 inches wide when fully unfolded. 36 inches long when folded up.
Built to carry even the largest breeds of dogs. Designed to securely hold up to 600 pounds. All this strength is contained in an 18.5-pound ramp.
Highly portable. Can be folded in half when not in use. It also comes with built-in handles. These features make it incredibly it easy to move and store.
Smooth, rubberized exterior is easy on the paws. This ramp is built to be used in both wet and dry situations with minimal traction loss.
Non-slip design secures means the ramp won’t slide out of place in use. The ramp end is designed for universal use so that it can workwith any car or flat edge. Comes in gray and khaki versions. This allows you to get the right look to match your vehicle.
PetSTEP ramps come with a five year-warranty. The warranty covers defects related to the material or assembly methods used.
CONS
Clasp used to close the ramp into place once folded isn’t the strongest. While the rest of the ramp is fairly sturdy, it is too easy for the clasp to come undone.
At 20 pounds this ramp is one of the heavier pet ramps on the market. May be larger than some dog owners need.
Relatively bulky. You need to have some extra space in your car to hold this ramp. The size is necessary for bigger dog breeds but overkill for others.
Some reports of discoloration. It’s a cosmetic issue that is far from universal. Still, it may be a disappoint to people who value aesthetics.
Rubber coating peels in some situations. This issue can be handled by returning it and getting a new ramp, but it’s still a hassle if it happens to you.
Can be cumbersome to fold and unfold if you have short arms or are unused to lifting large, 20-pound objects.
PROS
Combines comfort and traction. This ramp offers the some of the best grip available without having to sacrifice your dog’s paws.
Easy to transport. Can be folded in half when not in use. It also comes with built-in handles on each side of the ramp. These features make it incredibly it easy to move and store.
Simple to clean. All you need is some soap and water. The ramp was designed without materials that absorb unwanted materials. This keeps the ramp as clean and odor-free as possible.
Built to carry even the largest breeds of dogs. Designed to securely hold up to 600 pounds. All this strength is contained in an 18.5-pound ramp.
When comparing the ramp’s 600-pound capacity with its 18.5-pound weight, you get a 32:1 capacity to weight ratio.
This ramp won’t stink after extended use. The plastic surface is odor resistant. This ramp doesn’t hold in odors like carpeted ramps do.
Five-year warranty ensures that the buyer gets a working ramp that can handle all proper usage. If something goes wrong, you get a new ramp.
Overall, the PetStep Folding Pet Ramp is a great ramp that has everything the average pet owner could want in a dog ramp. Its design might be light weight, but it’s strong enough to carry some of the biggest dog breeds comfortably. With a 500-pound maximum weight limit, this ramp could hold two fully grown male Great Danes! It is built using a design and surface coating that are compatible with almost every vehicle or surface. That means that you can confidently install this on ramp onto just about any surface your dog needs help reaching. All of this is wrapped up in an 18.5-pound package, which makes the ramp easy to carry with you on trips with your dog. The impressive warranty that comes with this ramp means that you can make your purchase confidently. If any issues do arise, PetSTEP is more than willing to provide a solution. All of this together earns the PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp our pick as this guide’s top option.
Melissa
FEATURES
Weighs 10 pounds and can carry up to 150 pounds.
Designed with a latch to keep the ramp tightly closed when folded up.
Recommended for helping dogs down from surfaces 28 inches up or lower.
Stays safely secured shut during transport thanks to a safety release latch.
Can be used to cover stairs that are made up of approximately 3-4 steps.
Comes with four rubber feet built in to secure it to any surfaces at the top and bottom of the ramp.
Comes in a classic solid black design.
Available with a dog training clicker included at no extra charge.
CONS
The surface of the ramp is covered in a sandpaper-like material. This offers good traction, but it can be painful on dog’s feet. If your dog has sensitive paws, this ramp might be problematic.
Surface material can be damaged by heavy use. Lifespan will be cut down if used by dogs that are aggressive or prone to scratching.
The 150-pound weight capacity might not be enough for some larger dog breeds. If you have a dog larger than 24 inches, then you should consider a different ramp.
One year warranty isn’t as long as some other brands offer.
Prone to buckling at loads close to 150 pounds, despite the advertised 150-pound limit. Not necessarily for dogs near the limit.
Lacks built-in handles. This can make it a little awkward to carry despite the help of the lightweight material.
Can be hit or miss attaching to certain surfaces. May not attach to smoother surfaces.
Narrow design makes it a difficult climb for certain breeds. Make sure that your dog can comfortably fit within the 16-inch-wide surface. Best for one foot wide dogs.
PROS
An incredibly affordable option
At only 10 pounds the UltraLite Bi-fold Pet is incredibly easy to carry around. Just about everyone can carry this around with minimal issues
It’s 150-pound carrying capacity means that it’s strong enough to hold the vast majority of dogs. It’s perfect for smaller breeds since heavier ramps would just be overkill.
When comparing the ramp’s150-pound with its capacity 10-pound weight, you get a 15:1 capacity to weight ratio.
Designed with user safety in mind. Easy to fold and unfold without the risk of pinched fingers.
Emory surface provides good traction. Your dog isn’t going to slip walking up this ramp. If you decide you’d prefer a different surface the built-in covering can be removed cleanly for easy customization.
Can be found bundled with a free clicker. Most dogs need a bit of training before they use their ramp, this tool makes the process faster and more affordable.
Designed for simple cleaning and no maintenance. Minimal parts solid plastic constructions minimize dirt buildup and trapped odors. Simply wash with water and some soap.
One year warranty protects against defects related to the ramp’s construction.
The UltraLite earns its name thanks to its lightweight design. Still, weighing in at 10 pounds and carrying 150 means that this ramp carries 15 times its weight. It is incredibly easy to pick up and carry around. It’s a great ramp for anyone who travels with their dog. This ramp is designed for smaller dog breeds, but that’s what makes it so efficient. The vast majority of dog owners will find that the UltraLite provides the perfect amount of ramp at the right price. This is a product for people who don’t want to pay extra for added strength they don’t need. You’re hunting for the best value on the market this is a great choice. In the end, we awarded it our best buy option.
Melissa
FEATURES
Weighs 16 pounds and can carry up to 200 pounds.
56 inches long and 16 inches wide when assembled. Reaches up 23 inches high. When folded, it is 32 inches long and 7 inches high.
Free standing design. It is built to stand on its own.
Comes with removable carpet surface.
Rubberized feet provide the ramp with a sturdy grip on whatever surface it is placed on.
Metal bracing holds ramp firmly in place when unfolded and slides back for storage.
Comes in a rich brown color.
CONS
This ramp is relatively steep. While it will work for many dogs, it might be trouble for animals that require a particularly gradual incline. Overall, it’s better for smaller dogs than larger breeds.
The three-part design is more cumbersome than other models. Larger than comparable bi-fold ramps when folded up.
It is designed to hold up to 200 pounds, but it starts to bend at lower weights. This can disturb some dogs.
The removable carpet requires regular cleaning. The material can start to smell after continued use because of odor particles that are absorbed by the carpeting.
The carpet covering is not the most durable available. If the ramp is used regularly, the carpeting will eventually need replacing. Budget accordingly.
The design is inflexible. When unfolded, it allows dogs to climb 23 inches vertically. No more and no less.
Limited space at the top, and a long length means that this ramp works best when placed perpendicular to beds and couches. This might not be an option in particularly narrow rooms.
The edges are raised but only slightly. It would be easy for a wider dog to step off.
PROS
Built using thick and sturdy plastic. Allows it to hold 100-pound dogs with no issue and up to 200 pounds total weight when pushed to its limit.
When comparing the ramp’s 200-pound capacity with its 16-pound weight, you get a 13:1 capacity to weight ratio.
The carpeting makes for a very comfortable surface. This is a great ramp for dogs that have sensitive paws or longer nails.
23-inch height is enough for most situations. Can help dogs reach up to climb into most vehicles, beds, and other pieces of furniture. Made to be useful in the most common scenarios.
Removable carpeting allows for easy cleaning. The carpet is also incredibly easy to replace if you find a reason to.
Carpeting is held in place securely so that you don’t have to worry about your dog slipping while climbing up this ramp.
Very easy to fold and unfold. Everything slides into place and firms up quite nicely. No tools are necessary.
All three parts of the tri-fold design are made to fold up into a form that is as compact as possible.
The free-standing design means that the ramp doesn’t need external support. It doesn’t need to be attached to a vehicle or surface to stand up. Allows for more flexible placement options.
Pet Gear Pet Ramp is a good model for owners looking for a free-standing ramp. These ramps can stand on their own four legs; they don’t need to be propped against anything. This does mean that they aren’t as flexible as some ramps when it comes to the heights they can reach. This is balanced by the fact that it ensures that the ramp isn’t too steep for dogs that may require a soft incline. The carpeted surface requires some upkeep, but it is soft on paws. Dogs are less likely shy away from the comfort that this ramp offers. This is a ramp that’s great for indoor or outdoor use. If your dog needs to climb up 23 inches, this ramp will do the job.
Melissa
FEATURES
Weighs 17 pounds and can carry up to 250 pounds.
72 inches long and 16 inches wide and 1.5 inches thick when unfolded. When folded, it is 36 inches long and 3 inches thick.
Folding design.
Comes with built in handle.
Sturdy black plastic body.
The removable Poly-Grass surface that resembles real grass.
Automatically locking safety latch for security in transit.
Lip on top for grabbing onto vehicles.
Covered by Gen7Pets’ standard one-year warranty.
CONS
At 6 feet fully extended it might be too long for use in smaller rooms.
This 17-pound ramp is one of the heavier options we have looked at. Won’t bother many but if you don’t feel like carrying a large, 17-pound ramp, then this might not be the right choice.
While many dogs love the Poly-Grass surfaces, others don’t. Might not be the best choice for dogs with an aversion to fake grass.
The complicated fibers of the surface catch and hold onto dirt, dust, and other filth. This makes it one of the hardest ramp surfaces to fully clean.
The surface can be replaced, but that’s easier said than done. Replacement Poly-Grass mats aren’t easy to find. If you want to recreate the original, ramp, you’ll have to cut your own. Or just buy a new ramp.
To clean or replace the surface four different screws need to be removed per segment. That’s eight screws in all that need to be unscrewed and put back into place every time you perform maintenance. This can be a hassle if you use the ramp in areas where it will get dirty.
All too easy to hurt your fingers when folding this ramp up.
PROS
The surface of this ramp is designed to look like grass. This makes it naturally appealing to dogs. This ramp was designed to appeal to dogs that refuse to use other ramps.
The Poly-Grass surface is tough enough to provide traction for your dog, but it’s not too tough. Dogs will enjoy using it, and it will not damage your car when packed up.
The depth of the Poly-Grass covering makes it perfect for dogs with long nails.
The surface is screwed into place to keep it securely attached.
Safety latch locks on its own as you fold it shut. This makes packing a breeze.
When comparing the ramp’s 17-pound weight with its 250-pound capacity, you get an approximately 15:1 capacity to weight ratio.
Anyone who receives a defective ramp is eligible to receive a replacement. All that is needed is a report of the defect within 12 months of purchase and the sales receipt.
The Natural-Step Ramp from Gen7Pets has an incredibly distinctive look. At a glance, it’s clear that this product is different. The ramp’s main selling point is the Poly-Grass surface that simulates real grass. This makes using the ramp a lot more fun for the average dog. They’re not climbing a strange plastic surface; they might as well be climbing up a small green hill. This creates an enjoyable experience for the dog and a whimsical experience for the owner. Of course, the ramp also has to prove its worth in other areas. The construction is sturdy. The ramp has a good 6 feet of reach when fully extended. To top it all off, there’s the handle that makes carrying this ramp a breeze. This is a unique and well-rounded ramp for dogs and dog owners with a love for nature.
Melissa
FEATURES
Weighs 13 pounds and can carry up to 400 pounds.
39 inches long and 16.5 inches wide when assembled. When fully telescoped, it is 72 inches long.
Telescoping design.
Made with a combination of aluminum and plastic.
14.5-inch-thick sandpaper surfacing running down the middle acts as a walkway.
Built in carrying handle.
Rubber feet at front and back to hold ramp in place.
Raised sides assist to help dogs stay on the ramp.
A separate carrying case is available.
Covered by Solvit’s standard lifetime warranty.
CONS
The surface material isn’t the softest material. It is designed to be rough to provide traction. This means that it can hurt the feet of dogs with soft paws.
The walking surface is separate from the body of the ramp. It can be scratched up, torn, and ripped off over extended use. Not the best choice for dogs that are prone to scratching up furniture.
Aluminum edges can be sharper than necessary. Can cause injury to clumsy dogs.
Plastic sides aren’t as durable as they might be. They’re the parts most likely to break apart or fall off after continual use.
The ramp was clearly designed with small to medium dogs in mind. If you have a bigger dog, they’ll fit but not as comfortably as smaller dogs might.
Dogs that are 14 inches or wider might have trouble staying on the ramp.
Workmanship isn’t the best available. The core design is solid but smaller parts are easily damaged or broken.
Plastic caps put over sharp edges are prone to breaking after extended use. If this ramp this can pose a risk.
Comes shipped in a box with no real padding. As such it is more likely to be damaged in route than some other ramps.
PROS
Telescoping design allows for easier extension.
Built for a wide range of extendibility. Can slide between 39 and 72 inches long. This allows you to get just the right length for the task at hand.
When comparing the ramp’s 400-pound capacity with its 13-pound weight, you get a 30:1 capacity to weight ratio.
13.5-inch walking surface makes it a perfect ramp for dogs 13 inches wide or less. For added protection, the ramp has raised edges to help keep dogs on the straight, and narrow.
Aluminum and plastic mixture allows for a high weight capacity even while the ramp itself weighs very little.
Designed to be stiff. Even with a dog that weighs over 100 pounds this ramp won’t bend out of shape.
The materials are resistant to dirt and odor particles. Dogs can use this for quite some time without it smelling like dog.
Between the light weight, compact size, and built in handle the Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Dog Ramp is one of the most portable options on the market.
Lifetime warranty protects against problems caused by issues with materials and workmanship.
The Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Dog Ramp is a great ramp for anyone who wants something different from the standard folding ramps. The telescoping design allows for greater flexibility while taking up less space during setup. With this ramp, you’ll have an incredibly easy time taking it with you and putting it in place when needed. Just slide out as much as you need, set it down, and let your dog do the rest. With a fully extended length of 72 inches, this ramp can reach up to 28 inches high at a gentle slope. The Solvit Deluxe is perfect for animals that have a hard time handling steep slopes and need as much help as they can get.
MelissaHOW TO DISTINGUISH A QUALITY DOG RAMP FROM A CHEAP ONE
New or used?
If you want to be assured that you’re buying a product you can trust, then you should buy new. The savings offered by used products are tempting, but the process is a gamble. You might get a ramp that’s as good as new, or you might get one that is falling apart. Buying new lowers the risk involved and makes it more likely you’ll get a quality ramp.
Brand
You can tell a lot about a product by learning about the company that makes it. If you want a ramp you can trust, then you should look for a manufacturer that is known for being trustworthy. No-name generic ramps might be tempting, but once again there’s an element of risk involved. With an established name brand, you can be confident that the ramp will live up to its claims.
Weight Capacity
Looking at a ramp’s weight capacity is one of the quickest ways to objectively determine a ramp’s strength. The stronger and sturdier a ramp is the more it will be able to hold up. Please note that it’s also worth looking at the weight to weight capacity ratio. A lighter ramp won’t be able to hold as much, so don’t hold it against a light travel model if it doesn’t hold as much as a heavier option. With this in mind, one quick look at a ramp’s weight capacity can still give you an idea of how strong it is. Just remember to consider the entire picture.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A DOG RAMP
Weight Capacity
Before you buy any dog ramp, you need to be sure that it can safely hold up your dog. If you have a small dog like a Chihuahua, then you may be able to get by with even lightweight lamps. Other dogs don’t allow for the same kind of flexibility. Pet owners with multiple animals should try and find a ramp that can hold multiple animals at once to prevent accidents if two or more pets try to use the ramp simultaneously. Weigh your dog and then find a ramp that can carry your dog’s weight and more. Your dog might get heavier or try to climb up the ramp while carrying something heavy. If you cut it too close by purchasing a ramp that barely holds up your dog you’re inviting collapse. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Buy a ramp that has a higher weight capacity than you think you’ll need.
Dimensions
There’s nothing worse than buying a ramp and discovering that it is too long or short for your needs. If a ramp is too short, it will be too steep for your dog to climb up. If it is too long, it might be difficult to carry it around or fit where it needs to be. You can’t just read the dimensions and guess whether they will work out or not, you should grab a tape measure and check things out for yourself. It may sound like a hassle, but a little bit of effort will ensure that you get the right ramp on your first try. You should also consider storage. The larger a ramp is, the more space it will take up in your home and your vehicle. Even folding ramps can get bulky, make sure you know what you’re getting into before you make a purchase.
Free Standing Capabilities
A ramp needs to be able to stand up for an animal to climb up it. Pet ramps stand up in two ways, by supporting their weight against the object in front of them or by standing up on front legs. Ramps that can stand on their own are called free-standing. These ramps are great is you don’t have room to run the ramp perpendicular to the object your pet needs to climb onto. This situation can arise in bedrooms with little space between the bed and the wall. The downside of freestanding ramps is their added bulk. The front supports add weight and can make the ramp more difficult to store and carry. Each design has its pros and cons. To decide which is right for you it’s necessary to think about where your dog needs help reaching and what sort of a ramp would be best equipped to get the job done.
Surface Material
If you’re buying a dog ramp, you obviously care about your pet. That’s why it’s important to find a ramp that isn’t just useful; it should also be comfortable to use. Some ramps have harsh and scratchy surfaces that can irritate or even damage your dog’s paws. You should also consider the long-term implications of the materials used to make a ramp. If you get a ramp made using carpeting or another absorbent material, then it will capture odor-causing materials over time. A ramp doesn’t have to smell like a dog just because it’s used by one.
Portability
Unless you’re planning on permanently installing your dog ramp, then portability is something you need to think about. The total portability of a ramp depends on its weight, size, and special features. Weight and size are fairly self-explanatory, smaller and lighter ramps are easier to carry around. Special features include things like built in handles, folding, and telescoping. A built-in handle means that you have something solid to hold onto when lifting the ramp up. Folding and telescoping both mean that the ramp can be transformed between smaller and larger forms depending on the situation.
Care and Maintenance Needs
As a pet owner, you know that animals can be hard on certain products. A dog doesn’t understand the meaning of the words “handle with care.” That’s why a good pet ramp needs to be sturdy. If you want to be able to use the same ramp for years to come you should look for a ramp made of sturdy materials that are easy to care for. High-quality plastic is a good choice since it is strong enough for a dog, easy to clean, and waterproof. You don’t want a porous material that will absorb dirt, grime, and odor particles that will leave the ramp smelling like wet dog.
Quality Guarantee
If a company is confident in the quality of their product, then they will put their money where their mouth is. It’s easy for a company to say their ramp can handle everything your dog might throw at it, it’s another to offer a written agreement to step in if something goes wrong. Top brands like PetSTEP and Solvit show their confidence in their products by offering warranties. Make sure you take a look at the warranty, so you know what it covers. It can be better to get a shorter but more comprehensive warranty than a long warranty that offers little protection. If you can find a ramp with a solid warranty, then you can make your purchase confidently.
BEST DOG RAMP BRANDS
Solvit
If you want to be able to let your pet down from a range of heights Solvit ramps are a smart choice. Solvit is a company that believes in creating products that are easy to use and carry around. Their ramps use a telescoping design that allows you to slide the ramp to the correct length for your pets needs no matter the situation. In addition to their ramps, Solvit also sells a range of accessories for their ramps. Owners who want to be able to carry their telescoping ramp as easily as possible might consider their carrying cases. The cases are sold separately, but it’s good to know you have the option. Beyond ramps, Solvit also makes pet strollers, booster seats, protective barriers and more. Solvit has so much faith in their products that they offer a lifetime guarantee.

PetSTEP
If you want a heavy-duty pet ramp, then PetSTEP ramps are a great choice. Their ramps have some of the highest weight capacities on the market. Even the largest dogs will be able to stand tall and firm on a PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp. PetSTEP ramps are some of the most durable on the market. These ramps aren’t just built to stand up to your dog; they also stand up to the elements. The materials used are made to stand up to the elements so you can help your dog climb out of the car whether it’s raining or shining. Dog owners can buy confidently from PetSTEP. Their ramps are backed up by the longest warranty available, five years.

Pet Gear
Out of the four companies, we looked at Pet Gear is the one manufacturer that makes freestanding ramps. Not all situations call for ramps that need to lean against the surface your dog needs to climb up on. If you live in a crowded home a free-standing ramp from Pet Gear might be just the thing to help your dog up on the bed or couch. Pet Gear also uses carpeting in their ramps. Carpeting can be more difficult to clean, but it may be necessary for dogs with sensitive paws or long nails. Dogs that go skittering off sandpaper surfaces will be able to get a grip on a carpeted ramp from Pet Gear.

Gen7Pets
Gen7Pets is a company that provides a wide selection of accessories for pet owners. They don’t just produce pet ramps; they are dedicated to helping pets enjoy better lives in a variety of ways. Pet strollers, ramps, steps, carriers, cots, pads, and more. Their Natural-Step pet ramps come equipped with poly-grass covering. This encourages use by your dog because it resembles grass while offering good traction. Their products are made to make pets as comfortable using them as possible. This is one of the more unique and appealing features in the market. If you want your dog to feel at home on their ramp, then a Natural-Step model is a good choice. Ramps from Gen7Pets come in a variety of sizes and designs, so they have a model for your pet and vehicle. Every product from Gen7Pets is covered by a 12-month warranty.
These four companies all take one basic concept and turn it into a variety of unique products. They all aim to provide their users with the best experience possible but they take different approaches. Solvit ramps are highly portable, while PetSTEP ramps are heavy-duty, and Gen7Pets ramps can come equipped with artificial grass. We hope that this guide will help you find the ramp and ramp manufacturer that matches with your goals and needs. Like these companies, we believe that every dog deserves mobility.

HOW TO FIND THE BEST DOG RAMP FOR YOUR NEEDS
It may seem like it should be simple to pick the right ramp but looks can be deceiving. Two ramps might look similar at first, but little changes can make a big difference for you and your dog. That’s why it’s important to think carefully about what your needs are before purchasing a ramp.
One of the first things to consider is how much weight the ramp will need to hold. This depends on how heavy your dog is. Or how heavy your dogs might be, if you have more than one. A ramp that breaks under the weight of your dogs isn’t worth the money. If possible, you should try and find a ramp that can carry 50 to 100 more pounds than your dog weighs. This way you can trust that your new ramp will stand firm even if your dog tries to carry something heavy up their new ramp.
Look into the distance your ramp needs to cover. How high will it need to reach? You will need a ramp that is long enough to climb where you want it to at a gentle incline. If a ramp is incredibly steep, your dog might not be able to climb it. See how your dog handles inclines when you’re out on a walk to get a sense of how steep of a ramp it might need to handle. Then you should take a tape measure and see how long your ramp needs to be. Put one end on the surface your dog will need to climb to and extend the other out at an angle you think your dog can climb. This will allow you to calculate how long your ramp will need to be in order to be comfortably surmounted by your dog.
You should also try and measure out the space you have in your home and vehicle to store a ramp. Some ramps are bulkier than others. Think about where you’ll be storing your ramp before you can go shopping. Then you can compare a ramp’s measurements to your free space to determine whether you can comfortably fit it in your home. Ramps that don’t look big in a photo can take up quite a bit of space in person.
Consider the climbing surface. Your dog needs a ramp that is compatible with their paws. Dogs that are hesitant to go on coarse surfaces aren’t built for sandpaper ramps. It’s also worth looking at the length of your dog’s nails. Long nails have trouble gripping completely flat surfaces and can damage some coverings. If your dog has easily damaged paws or longer nails, you should look into a carpeted or Poly-Grass covered ramp to make it as easy as possible for your dog to use their new ramp.
To pick the perfect ramp, you can’t just focus on one thing. It’s not as easy as looking at a ramp’s weight capacity and deciding to buy it because it will hold up your dog. A finished dog ramp is the product of dozens of design decisions that will impact the way you and your dog use the ramp. Try and look at the big picture and choose the ramp that will do the most to improve your dog’s life.
DOG RAMP ACCESSORIES
PetSTEP Side Entry Support Strap for PetSTEP Pet Ramp
While the PetSTEP Pet Ramp is designed to cook up securely to as many doors as possible, there are still times when assistance is needed. Usually, pet ramps work best when put out the very back of a vehicle, but not every dog can exit out the back. This support strap from PetSTEP allows dogs to exit safely and securely out the side entrance. Please note that it is only compatible with the PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp, ramps and PeetSTEP products may not work with this strap. For those who do have a suitable ramp, this strap is an affordable addition that allows for extra safety and flexibility. A smart investment for anyone who owns a PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp.
PetSTEP Locking Brace Kit
This is another accessory for the PetSTEP Folding Ramp. Ramps from PetSTEP are designed to be as sturdy and durable as possible, but some pet owners will still demand an extra level of security. This locking brace kit attaches to the ramp and helps to further stabilize and secure it. It prevents the ramp from folding up. Perfect if you want to install the ramp in one place for an extended period. Only for securing PetSTEP Folding Ramps, don’t try with other brands.
Solvit Side Door Adapter for Ramps
This product does for Solvit ramps what the PetSTEP Side Entry Support Strap does for PetSTEP ramps, It can be used to secure Solvit pet ramps to the side door of any vehicle, so your pet can enter safely and easily. This adaptor works with a variety of Solvit ramps. Anyone with a Deluxe Telescoping, Deluxe XL Telescoping, or Ultralite Bifold Ramp will be able to use this product. As with Solvit ramps themselves, this adapter has a lifetime warranty.
Solvit Carrying Case for Deluxe Telescoping Ramp
Telescoping and folding ramps are designed to make transportation as painless as possible but carrying cases can make the task even easier. This carrying case is designed just for the Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp. This means that it fits that ramp like a glove fits a hand, but be warned that it will not hold ramps with larger dimensions. The carrying case measures 40 inches long, 18 inches tall, and 4 inches deep. It is constructed using a high quality, 600 denier polyester that is waterproofed to protect its contents.
TIPS, TRICKS AND ADVICE
It’s important to remember that dogs don’t always understand what a ramp is for just by looking at it. It can take a dog some time to understand and trust their new ramp. Don’t expect them to use it like a pro overnight.
Train Using Positive Reinforcement
Your dog might not use their new ramp immediately but that’s OK. Your dog needs to be encouraged to use its ramp. One common way to encourage proper ramp use is using a dog food trail. Place little snacks all the way up the ramp. Even the most worried dogs are likely to put concerns aside if treats are on the line! To make sure that they take the lesson to heart you can offer another reward once they reach the top of the ramp. This reinforces the idea that good things happen when they use their ramp. Note, you should reward them as soon as they climb up, so they know they’re being rewarded for climbing up their ramp and not for anything they’ve done after ascending. You should also keep in mind that in the long run, the dog should understand that being able to safely climb up and down is its own reward. As such you should slowly wean them off rewards once they’ve seen that climbing the ramp is no big deal.
Do not Force Your Dog to Use Their Ramp
If a dog is afraid of their ramp, the last thing you should do is try and physically make them use it. Dog brains aren’t as complex as human brains, if they feel negative emotions while doing an activity they will naturally come to avoid it. You don’t want your dog to be in stress or pain when using their ramp. If your dog won’t even come close to the ramp, you can assist it towards the ramp gently. Slow steps, gentle movement, and constant encouragement are key. Dog training can get frustrating. But if you use force out of anger or desperation you’ll do more harm than good.
Start off on flat ground
The process of installing snow chains has been made very easy by modern accessories. In under less than 5 minutes, you can install snow chains on your car. Despite this, you still need to practice how to install them while at home. This makes it easier for you to do it when you hit the icy road. Moreover, if you are using manual tensioner snow chains, you need to practice so that you can master how to add tension to them whenever required.
Make Sure Humans Don’t Use the Ramp
Pet ramps are not made for human beings. This is one of those facts that seems self-explanatory. Still, every year people break pet ramps and even injure themselves after trying to climb ramps that weren’t made for them. It’s especially important to tell children that they shouldn’t use their puppy’s ramp. Small children might not break the ramp, but little kids grow up. If children are not careful, they can end up breaking a ramp they used to be able to climb with no issue. You might also have to keep an eye out for older kids and even adults who might try and climb up the ramp if it’s in a tempting location.
Secure the Ramp Securely During Transportation
Be careful about how you store your ramp as you drive around with it. It can be tempting to simply pack it up beside your dog and shut the door. This is a mistake. Even relatively light dog ramps can injure your pet if they are left unsecured. If you suddenly hit the breaks the ramp might slide around or jump up and hit your dog. To protect your dog, you should either keep it further up behind your own seat. If you don’t have room, you should secure the ramp on the floor using rope or some variety of chord. Pet ramps are supposed to keep your dog safe, don’t let it become a danger due to careless storage.
Be patient
Some dogs take to their first pet ramp immediately, but others take some time. It might take a few hours or a few days before your dog will quickly and consistently use their ramp. As a dog owner, you know that each of these wonderful animals has a mind and personality of their own. It’s the reason we love them so much, even though it can be frustrating at times.

There’s no such thing as a ramp that fits the needs of every dog. As a pet owner, you know that your dog is a unique creature. As such you can’t buy it just any ramp. That’s why we wrote this guide, to provide you with the most helpful and accurate information available on the topic. Now you know about the top dog ramps, and the company’s the manufacture them. Buying a dog ramp shouldn’t be a gamble. You should know what you’re getting when you spend your money.
In the end, we can tell you about the top ramps, but we can’t pick the one that’s right for you. If you’ve got more than one dog, then a strong ramp with a high carrying capacity like the PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp is a smart purchase. If your dog loves to roll around on grass, then a Natural-Step Ramp from Gen7Pets is a natural fit. If your home’s interior design calls for a free-standing ramp, then a Pet Ramp from Pet Gear is worth a look. Every ramp brings something different to the table. To choose the right option, you need to consider your dog and the places it needs to get to. Once you understand what your dog needs you’ll have a much easier time choosing the perfect ramp.
We hope that you have found this guide helpful. We believe that you deserve the most from your hard-earned money. If you need help with any future purchases, please check out our wide range of buying guides. The choices available online can be overwhelming. That’s why we dig through it all to find you the very best of the best. If we don’t have the guide you need now, please check back later. We’re adding new guides as quickly as we can to help you make informed purchases.
Melissa