Best Dog Ramps For Beds [2023 Hot Picks & Ultimate Guide]

Whether you have a big or small dog, jumping in and out of the vehicles or on and off furniture and stairs can cause stress on their joints. Doing this repeatedly could lead to arthritis, pain, and health issues as they age.

If your canine buddy is active and still flexible enough to jump without any problem, a ramp may be an ideal way to mitigate possible joint and back problems.

With a broad range of dog ramps available, narrowing down the one that suits your dog can be a daunting task. We’ve, however, done the curation for you and compiled the best ramps for your dog.

Top 3 Ramp Picks For Your Dog: A Comparison

Preview
Best Overall
DoggoRamps Dog Ramp for Beds - Adjustable up to 37" High Beds with Low Incline, Safety Rails & Anti-Slip Grip, for Small Dogs up to 50lbs - Solid Hardwood, Made in North America
Runner-up
Pet Studio Pine Frame Dog RampSteps, 3 Step,Brown
Best Value
MEWANG Wood Pet Stairs/Pet Steps - Foldable 2 Levels Dog Stairs & Ramp Perfect for Beds and Cars - Portable Dog/Cat Ladder Up to 110 Pounds
Features
Features a unique anti-slip grip surface (PAWGRIP) that gives your dog extra secure grip and traction when climbing on it.
The steps can fold down, and each step is lined with a soft, non-slip carpet for a confident step up and down.
This product features a design that allows you to use it as a dog step or stairs and a ramp.
Best Overall
Preview
DoggoRamps Dog Ramp for Beds - Adjustable up to 37" High Beds with Low Incline, Safety Rails & Anti-Slip Grip, for Small Dogs up to 50lbs - Solid Hardwood, Made in North America
Features
Features a unique anti-slip grip surface (PAWGRIP) that gives your dog extra secure grip and traction when climbing on it.
Check Price
Runner-up
Preview
Pet Studio Pine Frame Dog RampSteps, 3 Step,Brown
Features
The steps can fold down, and each step is lined with a soft, non-slip carpet for a confident step up and down.
Check Price
Best Value
Preview
MEWANG Wood Pet Stairs/Pet Steps - Foldable 2 Levels Dog Stairs & Ramp Perfect for Beds and Cars - Portable Dog/Cat Ladder Up to 110 Pounds
Features
This product features a design that allows you to use it as a dog step or stairs and a ramp.
Check Price

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Is A Dog Ramp?

Pet ramps or dog ramps are mobility aids for old, arthritic, or disabled pets that need help climbing up high beds, couches, and cars. Pet ramps rank higher when it comes to safety compared to pet stairs as the inclined surface is easier on the pet’s joints compared to stairs.

A dog ramp is exactly what the name suggests. It is a ramp that helps dogs move up and down furniture and up and down vehicles, elevated walkways, and other taller structures. A dog ramp is available in different designs, styles, sizes, and colors. Even the type of material varies too.

Some dog ramps are adjustable, made of metal with a sticky or rough surface to avoid slipping and sliding. Adjustable dog ramps can be used in low to high areas and when done, you can simply fold it neatly and stash it anywhere, even under your bed.

Below is a helpful guide we’ve compiled for the thoughtful dog owner prepping to buy the best dog ramp available today.

If you opt to create your own, here’s a guide to teach you how to build a dog ramp.

One of the most common problems if you have a small dog or a dog with short legs like a corgi is getting around, up and down high furniture. A friend who’s a corgi hu-mom told me she had to constantly take her pet up and down her bed.

Getting in and out of the car was also a problem especially when you have a high SUV. So how do you get small dogs up high places and back? The answer is a dog ramp.

By the way, we also wrote a separate article on the best dog beds for boxers. For portability purposes, also read travel dog bed.

Best Dog Car Ramp Reviews

PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp

Constructed from cutting-edge composite plastic which is tremendously strong, this multipurpose pet ramp is built tough. Heck, you can transport a tapir with this beast of a ramp!

PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp

It folds/unfolds without a hitch for easy setup and storage, has a secure, non-slip surface with ridged design for superior gripping to prevent your pets from slipping and sliding as they move up or down the ramp. It comes in two colors – khaki and graphite if you’re into color matching your vehicle with accessories.

The ramp stays in place when it is used. It was designed specifically for a gentle incline so pets with arthritis and leg/back injuries can climb up or down with reduced pain, injury, and strain. The design cuts the risk of owners injuring themselves from trying to lift their 4-legged buddies themselves.

This ramp weighs 18.5 pounds when carried and has handles on each side for easier portability. Easy to clean, easier to set up and store.

Petstep Original Folding Pet Ramp, Khaki/Beige
  • No rough sandpaper or dirt-harboring carpet. Will not rust or corrode and can be cleaned with soap and water, Environment:...
  • Universal non-slip grip fits all vehicles and edges while folding in half for easy storage and portability.
  • Unique industry-leading dimensions avoid harsh inclines and promote pet safety.

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Protects your pet’s joints and bones
  • Keeps them safe on the stairs
  • Protects your pet from slipping and falling
  • Easily transportable with its foldable design
  • Durable – can hold heavy sized dogs (up to 500lbs)

Cons:

  • Quite heavy and bulky to move around

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Pet Gear Travel Lite Ramp

Equipped with the proprietary SuperTrax mat that’s removable, allowing for superior grip for doggy paws and made for easy cleaning.

Pet Gear Travel Lite Ramp

This ramp’s surface is activated by pressure, improving your dog’s grip and preventing slipping when navigating the ramp. The sides has an added feature of raised edge for added security.

Suitable for sedans, SUVs, and vans, the Pet Gear Travel Lite Ramp is foldable for convenient storage and only weighs seven pounds. Easy-peasy moving the ramp from vehicle to storage.

Sale
Pet Gear supertraX Ramps for Dogs and Cats, Maximum Traction Surface, Portable/Easy-Fold (No Tools Required), Built in Handle for Travel, 5 Models, 42-71 Inches Long, Supports 150-200lbs
  • SupertraX mat is soft, protecting pets’ paws and auto interiors; removable for easy cleaning
  • Pressure activated grip allows for pets’ paws to easily grip into the mat, providing sure-footing
  • Raised edges help prevent pet from slipping off of the side

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Protects your auto interior from scratches, dirt, and hair
  • Keep your dog safe and secure
  • Remove mat for easy cleaning
  • Easy to fold and transport

Cons:

  • Not suitable for smaller cars – best for SUV’s and larger vehicles

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Read More: For guaranteed safety of your dog when travelling, having a dog crate for truck bed is a great option!

Pet Gear Full Length Ramp

The ramp surface offers a skid-resistant grip that increases stability as your pet scales your vehicle bed. Additional feature includes rubber grippers on the underside of the ramp for enhanced stability, reducing ramp wobble during use.

Pet Gear Full Length Ramp

The non-skid surface provides extra bracing for your pet’s paws. This ramp folds easily to fit in the back of your and has a locking swivel to prevent accidental opening.

It’s 71 inches long and with this extra length, you can reduce the angle of steepness so your nervous pets can be trained to use this ramp. But bear in mind that the angle of the ramp depends on what kind of vehicle you drive.

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Keep your pet safe with a sturdy, slip-resistant surface
  • Easily fold and transport the ramp with the built-in handle
  • Rubber grippers on the bottom keep the ramp steady
  • Sturdy – can hold up to 200lbs

Cons:

  • Issues with the durability of the ramp with larger, heavier dogs

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Natural Step Ramp

The Natural Step dog ramp is lightweight, sleek yet remains sturdy. The ramp weighs 17 pounds to carry but can support dogs up to 200 pounds. There’s power in its quality material and sound framework.

Natural Step Ramp

Dogs won’t hesitate to ascend or descend this folding pet ramp as its surface is made of polyester grass which dogs are already familiar with. The polyester grass on the ramp surface provides a secure grip as your beloved pet navigates the ramp without fear.

This ramp is ideal for the older members of the pack, the recently ill, the infirm, those who just had surgery, and the ankle-biters we love to take on road trips. No trip is complete without your pets.

Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp for Vehicles, 72 Inch
  • Natural Step Ramp For Vehicles: Designed for safety and great for trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps, this Natural-Step Ramp has durable...
  • Easy On The Go: Your dog will feel safe to walk up and down its 16" wide walking path covered in poly-grass for a better...
  • Approved By Best Friends: Gen7Pets full line of products includes pet strollers, carriers, ramps, and steps with...

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Keep your pet safe while traveling in a car
  • The rubber grippers will keep the ramp in place 
  • The safety tether latch ensures your pet won’t fall off the ramp
  • Its lightweight design and soft rubber grip handle makes it easy to transport and carry

Cons:

  • Sticky ‘grass’ surface can bubble over time

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Best Dog Ramps For Bed Reviews

DoggoRamps Dog Ramp For Beds

The DoggoRamps dog ramp is one of the best dog ramps for small dogs because it protects your puppy’s joints and back from hurting when climbing to your bed. We all know how dangerous a high bed can be for a small breed dog.

DoggoRamps Dog Ramp for Beds

The DoggoRamps company offers a high-quality dog ramp made out of solid hardwood that is designed with your dog’s safety in mind. This dog ramp features a unique anti-slip grip surface (PAWGRIP) that gives your dog extra secure grip and traction when climbing on it.

This dog ramp is a convenient way that allows your dog to go up and down without any issues. Its design is highly functional since you can adjust it however you like (in 7 intervals), depending on your bed height (from 12 to 37 inches).

In terms of added safety, the DoggoRamps dog ramp also offers safety rails that are removable and reversible, so you can make a proper orientation of the dog ramp depending on the position of your bed. And for the ramp to stay in place, there is an anchor rope that can be tied firmly to fully secure it from moving.

Lastly, its unique and foldable design allows you to store it under your bed without taking too much space.

So, all in all, a great product that your small puppy will certainly love.

Sale
DoggoRamps Dog Ramp for Beds - Adjustable up to 37" High Beds with Low Incline, Safety Rails & Anti-Slip Grip, for Small Dogs up to 50lbs - Solid Hardwood, Made in North America
  • SOLID HARDWOOD, MADE IN NORTH AMERICA - Our dog ramps are made of solid Maple hardwood (true furniture quality), making them...
  • ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT & COLLAPSIBLE - Our adjustable dog ramp has 7 height intervals from 12" to 37" high, accommodating even the...
  • SPECIAL PAWGRIP SURFACE - Our bed ramp features our unique PAWGRIP surface which gives incredible traction to your dog for...

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Your dog can easily get in and out of bed
  • Reduce the risk of falls or injury from a fall
  • Increases independence for those with mobility issues
  • Portable – easy to assemble and store
  • Can adjust height to suit your dog and bed

Cons:

  • Ramp can shake when in use causing discomfort for your pup

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PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp

This is one of the best dog ramps for beds in the market today. It has a sleek design that won’t take up much space even in smaller bedrooms so your pet dog or cat can come up to stretch out on the bed without you having to lift them, O Hooman Slave.

PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp

Not that we mind being at our furbaby’s beck and call, do we? I certainly don’t, but at least with the CozyUp dog ramp for bed, my pets can reach higher furniture at home even when I’m not around.

The Pet Safe CozyUp bed ramp is made of strong and durable material. Your pets will feel confident walking up and down the gentle incline of the ramp and look stylish while doing it. The ramp’s surface has a strong carpet cover while the legs and the frame have a cherry wood finish.

Sale
PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp for Small Dogs – 25 Inches Tall Reaches Most Beds – Supports up to 120 lb Pets – Dog and Cat Access for Bedroom – No Slip Carpet Traction
  • CONTINUE CUDDLE TIME: Use the ramp to help your best friend get up on the bed all by themselves
  • SAFETY TESTED & DURABLE: This strong ramp is independently tested and rated to support pets up to 120 lb
  • DECORATIVE: Choose from 2 options of colored wood finish to match your home

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Pets can get up on furniture by themselves
  • Ramp is strong and durable – independently tested
  • Keep your pet safe and secure when they’re getting up on the bed
  • Gives your dog a sense of independence 
  • Sleek and modern design to suit decor

Cons:

  • Complaints that carpet can get very slippy

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PetSafe CozyUp Folding

Available in tan and grey, this ramp is your furkid’s best friend, enabling their little legs to reach the sofa or bed for cuddle time with Human.

PetSafe CozyUp Folding

Made of nonskid surface material, the PetSafe foldable pet steps supports pets from 150-200 pounds depending on the model you choose.

They come in 20-inch steps and 25-inch steps. Easily folds for convenience and portability, press a lever and the PetSteps fold down flat so you can slide it under the bed or couch.

Sale
PetSafe CozyUp Folding Dog Stairs - Pet Stairs for Indoor/Outdoor at Home or Travel - Dog Steps for High Beds - Pet Steps with Siderails, Non-Slip Pads - Durable, Support up to 150 lbs - Large, Gray
  • CONTINUE CUDDLE TIME: Help your best friend climb up on the sofa or bed all by themselves
  • SAFETY TESTED FOR DURABILITY: Small size supports pets up to 150 lbs; large size supports pets up to 200 lbs
  • NO SLIPPING: Nonskid feet, fabric tread covers and siderails keep the steps from moving and your pet from sliding

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Climb up on the sofa or bed all by themselves
  • Make quality time together easier than ever
  • Lightweight and easy to carry around
  • No slipping or sliding for you dog
  • Durable – quality construction that will last for years
  • USA quality made

Cons:

  • Some complaints about the quality of material

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Pet Studio Pine Frame Dog Ramp Steps

One of our best picks yet! This innovative mobility aide is a ramp that transforms smoothly into a pet staircase in just seconds. Made for small dogs, this can be used by senior dogs, short-legged breeds, growing pups, or sick pets.

Pet Studio Dog RampSteps

It provides pets with arthritis the ability to move up and down beds, couches, ottomans with less stress on the muscles and joints. The only drawback is this ramp is not recommended for pets’ use on vehicles as this is more of an indoor design.

The steps can fold down, and each step is lined with a soft, non-slip carpet for a confident step up and down. The rampsteps’ frame is made of mahogany-finished pine and is 40 inches long, 17.5 inches wide.

Sale
Pet Studio Pine Frame Dog RampSteps, 3 Step,Brown
  • Rampsteps easily convert from steps to a ramp to make it easy for aging or arthritic pets to reach sofas, beds, and more
  • Easy to use
  • Sturdy mahogany-finished pine frame holds pets up to 130-pounds

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • No more struggling to carry your dog up the stairs
  • Prevent falls and injuries by using a ramp instead of carrying them
  • Easy to assemble
  • Can be used by pets of all sizes
  • Makes it easier for your aging or arthritic dog to enjoy life without pain and discomfort

Cons:

  • Quality issues with the steps

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MEWANG Wooden Pet Stairs/Steps: 2 in 1 Foldable Stair & Ramp

This product features a design that allows you to use it as a dog step or stairs and a ramp. It is crafted using solid wood that guarantees strong support and durability.

MEWANG Wooden Pet Stairs

The grip carpet used to cover the ramp and stairs offers traction for your paw buddy, preventing any accidental falls.

Additionally, the ramp is foldable to 3-inch height, making it easy to store and transport.

MEWANG Wood Pet Stairs/Pet Steps - Foldable 2 Levels Dog Stairs & Ramp Perfect for Beds and Cars - Portable Dog/Cat Ladder Up to 110 Pounds
  • 2-IN-1 CONVERTIBLE DESIGN: Converts simply from 2-steps to a ramp to make it easy for older or arthritic pets to reach sofas,...
  • STURDY AND SAFE: Sturdy wood construction for strong support can hold pets up to 110 pounds.
  • COMFORTABLE ACCESS: Fabric covered ramp and stairs provide traction for your pet's paws.

Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Keep your old, sick, or arthritic pet comfortable and mobile
  • Easily accessible for all pets
  • Portable and lightweight for easy movement
  • Keep your pet safe and comfortable while climbing stairs

Cons:

  • Issues with the quality of the hinges and wear resistance

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Types Of Dog Ramps

Dogs need ramps for climbing on different surfaces, including beds, sofas, and vehicles, among others. To satisfy the different needs, it is important to know the various types of dog ramps.

Extendable Vehicle Ramps

Whether you own an arthritic dog or a healthy one, getting them into or out of your car might sometimes be a challenge. The most obvious solution is carrying them, but investing in an extendable vehicle ramp for dogs is best.

Extendable vehicle ramps are ideal because they help improve your dog’s mobility without straining its muscles or joints. Additionally, experts advise against allowing dogs to jump from vehicles because it might cause health issues and injuries.

Heavy-Duty Home Ramps

You can help your dog avoid too much jumping that can trigger joint and hip issues by investing in a good heavy-duty home ramp.

However simple this product may seem, it is crucial that you carefully choose a heavy-duty dog ramp to avoid wrong inclination and accidents. These ramps provide an easy way for your dog to get on and off the sofa or bed. 

Related Article: Best Reviewed Indestructible Dog Beds. Dogs can’t resist the urge to play with their bed, so here’s a list of chew-proof of beds for you.

Step Ramps

Dog steps are not so different from doggie stairs. They normally include 1-3 large steps and are best suited for medium breeds that cannot get on the bed or sofa by themselves. The problem with step ramps is that if your dog has a joint condition, they feel a little discomfort.

Benefits Of Dog Ramp

With the different studies conducted by experts, the use of a dog ramp is highly recommended for cars and other kinds of heights.

old dog being held

Dog ramps can reduce the strain on the joints of your pet, making them best for inhibiting breed-related concerns and also helping older pet dogs that are more prone to injury. The following is a list of benefits of dog ramps for dogs:

1. Less Hassle On Joints

Literally speaking, your dog’s joints could be more suffering when jumping down – the part of jumping up could be tolerable for him. Joints of any dog, but specifically a giant one or an old dog, have vulnerable joints, and getting a dog ramp can lessen the stress on those delicate joints. This applies to large-breed puppies,

2. Easier Access On High Beds, Couches, Or Chairs

A lot of dogs of tiny breeds are extremely short to initiate jumping on beds, couches, or chairs. The use of a dog ramp lets your pet get into their favorite areas without your mediation. This grants them happiness and liberty while ensuring their safety. 

3. Reduces Pain And Strain

Giant, arthritic, old, or obese dogs can benefit from a dog ramp by lowering leg and back strain and pain triggered by excessive jumping.

This lets your pet to be more comfortable and free by offering them the avenue they once enjoyed during their heyday. Furthermore, the lowering of leg and back strain could also mean limiting your visits to your vet.

4. Less Exposure To Injury

Your pet can easily acquire injury when jumping in and out of your car and is specifically in danger when in snow or rain. A dog ramp with an anchored surface can essentially lower the possibility of injury and maintain the health of your dog for quite longer. 

5. Multiple Uses

A dog ramp for large-size dogs can be accessed not just for SUVs or cars. The use of a dog ramp can assist your pet in his small hops to beds, tables, or anything the dog has to get into. Its lightweight and handy characteristic imply that you can access it nearly anywhere to assist your dog.

6. Longevity

Dog ramps are ideally used for puppies to old dogs. The use of a dog ramp during an early period of your pet’s life will inhibit him from injuries and joint issues. 

7. Vehicle Fear And Anxiety

Even though most dogs love car rides, there are still some that deal with fear and anxiety when riding a car, thus stopping them to jump. Another reason why your dog will not jump is because of fear. Perhaps they have not yet tried doing it before, or they may have had a bad experience with cars before. 

It could also be that they just don’t know how to jump in. Even though some breeds will allow you to just get them and put them inside the car, there are also other dogs who hate this.

They could also be extra heavy for pick up. When you notice this, you may want to use a pet ramp, and combine it with a treat, guiding your dog into your car. 

Having a treat handy as a guide will also show your beloved pet that your car is not something that needs to be feared, and that the pet ramp will even make it easier for both you and your pet. 

Read More: Calming Dog Bed. To let them have a nice and cozy sleep and also to promote their health status as humans do.

Things To Look For When Buying A Dog Bed Ramp:

  • Assembly: Check that the product is easy to assemble. Don’t choose complicated ramp products with more than 15 moving parts. Who needs is a migraine trying to assemble a dog ramp? The best choice is a 3-to 5-piece product that’s a breeze to assemble, not including screws.
  • Incline: The ramp should rise gently to prevent slipping. A reasonable ramp incline can be 18 to 25 degrees. Most vets recommend an incline of 18 to 20 degrees for small dog breeds and 22-25 degrees for medium-sized dogs. Any ramp with an incline higher than this would be too steep for your dog and do more harm than good.
  • Appearance: Go for a ramp that won’t clash with your style, if it’s important. Dog ramps come in all styles now, so your options aren’t limited to the ugly dark, industrial rubbery design.
  • Safety and Traction: The dog bed ramp is meant to keep your pup safe from injuries. Thus, safety and traction measures must be taken. Since the dog will be climbing up and down the ramp frequently, you need to ensure the surface is non-slip and paw-friendly. The ramp should have rubber pads or grip tapes to prevent your dog from slipping or sliding.
  • Replacement Covers: Our fur babies are leaky, agree? They will pee and puke or worse, poop on any surface in the house including their ramps! What could be a better way for cleaning up than removable ramp coverings that you can throw in the wash?

Things To Look For When Buying A Dog Ramp For Car:

  • Folding Or Fixed: A foldable ramp for a car or SUV is very helpful when storing the product. Foldable car ramps take up less space and more portable especially for shorter dog owners that don’t care to lug around a 70-inch hunk of plastic or metal.
  • Ease Of Handling: Ensure that the car ramp you intend to buy has a non-slip rubber gripping structure on each end to hook into your vehicle. This will ensure safe ramp navigation and prevent wobbling when heavier pets ascend or descend the car ramp.
  • Durability: Look for car ramps made with advanced fiberglass or rubber materials that protect against rust or corrosion, even when left outdoors. Ensuring the ramp is built to last by researching their base materials is one way to protect your wallet.
  • Taction: The best car dog ramp is made with a rubberized surface to prevent slippage of doggy paws. Some materials are too slick for ramps especially in wet weather, so ensure your pets have sure footing on the ramp surface by choosing the best product in the market.
  • Length: Car ramp features may include extendable length or telescoping features, so you can slide the ramp to the length you prefer.

What Size Of Dog Ramp Should I Buy?

If you’re unsure which of the dog ramp products to secure for your pup, follow this guide: For smaller dogs, choose a ramp that’s about 11-12 inches wide. For medium-sized dogs, choose one that’s 22-24 inches wide.

A properly constructed ramp allows a gentle incline of approx. 18-25 degrees to allow for safe ascent and descent. Very steep ramps will do more harm than good as the dog as it overworks the joints of their legs to try to control the descent.

What’s the difference between Ramp and Stairs – Doggy stairs are made of a series of steps, usually, 2-4, that dogs can navigate to get from the floor level to a higher surface, usually a couch or bed. Stairs are ideal for more active dogs who possess good balance (read: younger).

A ramp is either a homemade or commercially made structure composed of an inclined surface connected to a base, built to connect a lower level to a higher one. Advisable for dogs with knee joint issues as the ramp’s gentle incline is less demanding on their knees.

When To Use A Dog Ramp:

Habitual jumping on and off the bed or anywhere inclined can stress the bones and joints of the dog. Depending on the age of your pet, his physical status, breed, and the frequency of his jumping, a dog ramp can lessen the burden these routine movements impose on his joints.

pug on the bed

Arthritic Dogs

For dogs with arthritis, jumping up and down can develop pain, speed up the disintegration of the joint, and conclusively become hopeless as the condition advances.

An arthritic dog can experience a startling improvement in the quality of life with the use of a dog ramp, mainly because he stays around with his owner despite limited mobility. 

Dogs That Are Recovering From A Surgery Or An Injury

After a surgical operation or an injury, it will be expected that he will need assistance when reaching his perches. The use of a dog ramp is most recommended for handicapped or post-surgery dogs since they are a bit easier to head out for compared to the stairs.

Small-breed Dogs

Tiny-size dogs love to jump on and off and they enjoy doing it habitually. But since your little pet jump on and off the bed with comfort and swiftness, does not imply that he should.

Throughout time, this repeating movement of your dog can stress his joints, lead to injuries, and could be a possible factor for arthritis. The use of a dog ramp can protect your pet’s joints by at least minimizing the frequencies of his leaping.

Puppies

The bones and joints of the puppies are still expanding. Habitual leaping, a strong landing, or a gawky leap can lead to direct injury or develop possible concerns later on. For your puppies, teaching them to access the dog ramp will be nominal, as they will normally see the ramp as playground equipment.

How To Build A Dog Ramp For Car?

Building a homemade dog ramp for an SUV is a great project to pursue when you got extra time, and tools available:

Start off by setting aside a standard 4×4 piece of plywood as the base of the ramp. Cut off a plank measuring 3-5 feet long. You can add unilateral safety rail as an added feature but it’s not necessary.

To provide an ideal surface for doggy paws to grip, attach equidistant steps made of wood casing on-ramp, then top it off by painting the ramp with a primer for moisture protection. Glue carpet pieces on each side of the wood casing. Astroturf is ideal for traction too. and gluing outdoor carpeting or AstroTurf to the surface.

This is the simplest ramp design to follow. You can imagine myriad other designs for outdoor or indoor dog ramps.

How To Build A Dog Ramp For Bed

Sometimes, retail solutions tend to be a little expensive and not as convenient as custom-made solutions. Building a dog ramp for a bed is an easy task if you have the right tools. If you plan to make one of these, here is an expert guide to take you through the process.

DIY Dog Ramp For Bed

Some of the most efficient DIY dog ramps for beds can be made using simple materials in our homes. Here are some DIY ramps for beds that you can make;

Reused Cabinet Door

If you like to renovate your house often, you must have extra cabinet doors stored somewhere. You can repurpose those old cabinet doors and use them as dog bed ramps. Remember to line the cabinet with anti-slip tape for the dog’s safety.

Crate Ramp with Storage

To craft this, you would need different-sized crates, a board, wood glue, carpet tape, nails, a hammer, a small rug, and a measuring tape. The rug’s purpose is to ensure the surface of the ramp is safe with traction. 

If you love DIY projects, then I think you would enjoy creating DIY under bed blockers.

Teaching Your Dog To Use The Ramp

Most ramps are adjustable, meaning they can be set depending on what they are resting on. This makes it viable to use a more gradual incline when training your dog for the first time. On the first training attempt, use a stable and flat surface such as grass where the dog cannot slide.

Train the dog by luring him to follow a treat as he walks across the bed ramp. Give him a treat when he puts a paw on the ramp and next when he places two paws. With time, move the treat to the middle of the ramp and let them reach it.

Now have the treat in your hand and let the dog follow gradually to the end of the ramp. If your dog gets off the ramp, move him back to the beginning and start the process again.

When your dog follows your hand to the end of the ramp, give him a treat and let him walk on the ramp again. Integrate a verbal command in training, such as “up” a few seconds before you start to direct him with your hand.

Once the dog has mastered walking on the ramp on a flat surface, increase the incline in bits. If the incline is increased rapidly, the dog might panic and refuse to cooperate. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Ramp Or Stairs Better For Dogs?

Yes. They help dogs with joint complications or small-sized dogs to get on or off higher surfaces with ease. 

Are Ramps Bad For Dogs?

No. If anything, they will help keep your dog healthy. When dogs jump from high places, they can injure themselves, causing chronic issues. A ramp can prevent such problems from occurring.

What Materials Are The Best Dog Ramps For A Bed Made Of?

Ramps can be crafted using solid wood, manufactured wood, stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and hardened iron.

What Is The Best Surface Material For A Dog Ramp For A Bed?

The various materials that are best for dog bed ramps include rubber, grit, and carpet. These materials will provide your dog with the best traction.

Are Dog Ramps Worth It?

Yes. Dog ramps are investments every dog owner should make. Besides promoting the dog’s health, they also make it easy for the dog to move on and off high surfaces.

What Is The Difference Between Dog Ramps And Dog Stairs?

The decision highly depends on you. While either of these two can fit any situation, there are still a few factors that you can take into consideration and can guide you in making a wise choice. Here are some of them:

• If you have furniture that you want to be off-limits and you notice your dog leaping into the car, you may want to select an outdoor, sturdy dog ramp that facilitates easier storage.

• If your beloved pet only needs help with some of their favorite furniture pieces, having lightweight and portable dog stairs maybe your top pick. 
Some dogs are also suffering from a long-term phobia, especially that of steps. Thus, training them in using a pet ramp will serve as a better strategy.

• If you worry that space is not enough in your home, you may want to use a storable or foldable ramp that can be tucked out of view in between use. 
In the end, whether you are selecting stairs or a dog ramp, it is best to have one that offers enough traction. This will avoid unnecessary strain as your dog traverses up and down the ramp. On top of that, dog ramps and dog stars need to be sturdy. 

• Once your pet is already comfortable with his new furniture, you will also be delighted to observe that your back strain will now be gone. Your dog will simply go to his favorite places without much hassle and lower injury risk. You can also guide them to go inside our car, and get them out.

• As general advice, make sure to get a ramp that will suit the needs of your dog while taking into consideration the vehicle type, or the activities that your dog is expected to perform. The good news is that there are a lot of options out there these days. 

• If you’re ready to go through a list of great ramp options for your little buddy, here’s a list of one of the great products we compiled. Choose the ramp that best fits your budget.

Conclusion

Seriously put into consideration the benefits of a dog ramp on your dogs. A dog ramp is a more adaptable and safe choice for your pet to continue navigating the layout of his home compared to other dog aids.

If you want to save your pet from any possible risks and injuries, it would be smart to invest in a dog ramp and teach your pet to access it whenever going up to your bed or on the couch. 

Ready to invest in your pet’s continued health? We’ve compiled a list of our top dog ramp picks that emphasize value and quality over price. May the best ramp win your vote!

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Lovelia Horn

I’m a certified crazy dog mom, a physical therapist (for hoomans), writer, animal rescuer, and foster home provider. Together with my hubby Ryan, I’ve fostered and helped look for forever homes for over a hundred shelter dogs in the Southern Illinois area. I mostly work with Puppy Rescue 911, Inc., a certified animal rescue organization based out of Chester, IL (home of Popeye!)

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