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- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
If you’ve seen your senior dog struggling to get up on the couch or bed—or landing awkwardly when they jump off—it’s probably time to look into the many options for pet ramps and stairs. You’ll find everything from lightweight foldable ramps for travel and simple steps for small dogs to heavy-duty gangplanks that can handle the weight of a large breed.
Not sure where to start? Hop down to our expert’s advice on how to choose, or read on for the best pet ramps for every pup and every situation.
- Best for Cars and Trucks: PetSafe Happy Ride Extra Long Dog Ramp (Verified Review)
- Best for Seniors or Joint Pain: Snoozer Orthopedic Scalloped Ramp (Verified Review)
- Best for Beds: PetSafe CozyUp Wooden Dog Ramp
- Best for Couches: Zinus Comfort Dog Stairs
- Best Outdoor Ramp: WeatherTech PetRamp
- Best Stairs: Pet Gear Easy Step II Stairs
- Best for Pools: Petstep Dog Ramp for Pools
- Best for Boats: SOLSTICE Original Inflatable Pup Plank Pet Ramp
- Best for Small Dogs: ZICOTO Sturdy Dog Stairs and Ramp
- Best for Large Dogs: Zinus Easy Pet Stairs
- Best for Traction: PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp
- Best for High Beds and Furniture: Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps
- Best Foldable: Arf Pets Foldable Dog Stairs
Best for Cars and Trucks: PetSafe Happy Ride Extra Long Telescoping Dog Ramp (Verified Review)
The PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Ramp. Image courtesy of Tymer Moses
The PetSafe Happy Ride is a telescoping aluminum ramp specially designed to help a pup get into a vehicle. It comes in two sizes: a six-foot “regular” and a 7.25-foot “extra-large” that’s made for tall vehicles like high-clearance trucks. The latter can support giant breeds—up to 300 pounds—and easily span heights of three or more feet. It comes with a nonslip tread and telescopes down to just over half its length for easy transport.
We initially had some doubts about the design—would a telescoping ramp be sturdy enough for our biggest friends? But it held up with no problems under 110-pound Newfoundland-Pyrenees-Poodle mix Wally and 125-pound Newfoundland Levy, who successfully used it to get into the back of a three-foot-high Toyota 4Runner. Our Rover testers gave it two thumbs (and eight extra-large paws) up.
Key Features:
- Designed to reach up to three feet high and support even giant breeds (up to 300 pounds)
- Telescoping design for portability
- Non-slip tread
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Best for Seniors and Joint Pain: Snoozer Pet Products Orthopedic Scalloped Dog Ramp (Verified Review)
These high-density foam steps provide gentle yet sturdy support for dogs up to 100 pounds, making them a good option for aging dogs of all sizes or pups with arthritis. The scalloped four-step design and 21-inch base won’t wobble or shake, though dogs who struggle with traction may find the fabric a little slippery.
Our test pup, an elderly Mini-Dachshund who refused all wood and metal pet stairs, learned to scamper up these and onto the couch with no problem—a huge boon to his grateful pet parents, who can now make it through movie night without stopping to lift him up and down a dozen times. We especially like that the cover is removable for washing (or swapping colors) and highly recommend this pillow-staircase for reluctant ramp-goers.
Key Features:
- Available in six colors and three sizes (small, medium, and large)
- Microsuede cover that’s removable and machine-washable
- Made in the USA
Best for Beds: PetSafe CozyUp Wooden Dog Ramp
This wooden dog ramp is 25 inches tall and supports canines up to 120 pounds. Its carpeted surface provides excellent traction. We like its gentle gradation and height especially for use with beds and think the 70-inch length is a good fit for large breeds, though it’s worth noting that this ramp doesn’t collapse down into something storable.
We think it’s an aesthetically pleasing modern pick for pet parents who plan on incorporating a ramp in their decor instead of folding and stowing it until bedtime.
Key Features:
- Designed to work with beds and tall furniture
- Available in two colors: white and cherry (wood)
- Non-slip carpeted tread
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Best for Couches: Zinus Comfort Dog Stairs
These lightweight two-step stairs are ready to give your pup a boost onto the couch or a chair with a supportive high-density foam interior. Assembly is easy—simply attach the top step and zip the cover, which is machine-washable. Though big dogs might be tempted to cozy up to these soft steps, the Zinus Comfort Dog Stairs are ideal for small or toy breeds under 20 pounds.
Key Features:
- Cover can be removed and is machine-washable
- Available in five sizes: x-small (two steps), small (three steps), medium (three steps), large (four steps), and x-large (four steps)
- Best for smaller breeds
Best Outdoor Ramp: WeatherTech PetRamp
Bring your furry best friend on all of your outdoor adventures with this dog car ramp that easily folds up for easy storage when not in use. Ideal for dogs of all ages and sizes—the WeatherTech dog ramp supports up to 300 pounds—it features grips on its surface to prevent your pup from sliding down. Dimensions are 67 x 15 x 3 inches.
We like the WeatherTech ramp for outdoor use especially, since it’s easy to clean and equipped with rubber ends for traction and stability on a range of surfaces.
Key Features:
- Outdoor dog ramp weighs 16 pounds
- Rubber feet end grips to keep it in place
- Made in the USA
Best Stairs: Pet Gear Easy Step II Stairs
This two-step, 22-inch plastic stairway from Pet Gear combines the best features of stairs and ramps into one sturdy little staircase, helping your pup climb up on the couch or bed. This set of dog stairs is good for canines up to 150 pounds and features easy-to-grip carpeted treads that are removable for cleaning.
Key Features:
- Available in three colors: tan, chocolate, and sage
- Rubber grippers on the bottom keep stairs secure
- Stairs easily snap apart for storage when not in use
Best for Pools: Petstep Dog Ramp for Pools
Let your dog join in on the splishing and splashing with this dog pool ramp that makes it easy for them to get in and out without a struggle. Constructed of composite plastic and fiberglass, the ramp is designed with a non-slip, rubberized surface that provides excellent traction while being gentle on paws. Dimensions are 70 x 17 x 2.5 inches.
Note that this isn’t a permanent pool ramp; it’s meant to be stored out of the water when playtime is over.
Key Features:
- Load capacity of 500 pounds
- Legs are made from aluminum, with rubber feet to protect your pool
- Ramp length: 70 inches
Best for Boats: SOLSTICE Original Inflatable Pup Plank Pet Ramp
This super nifty inflatable pet plank makes it easy for your dog to get in and out of the water and onto your boat for a day at the lake. It features a weighted mesh system that sinks below the water level to support your pup in getting in and out of the water. Not only is it a great dog ramp for boats, but it also works well as an easy entry and exit for pools too.
The plank pet ramp comes in two sizes: mini (for dogs up to 30 pounds) and XL (for dogs up to 120 pounds). There’s also a “sport” option if blue camo is what your lake days are missing.
Key Features:
- Total item weight is 12 pounds
- Built-in D-rings and two eight-foot tie-ropes to securely fasten plank
- Measures 48 x 32 x 5 inches
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Best for Small Dogs: ZICOTO Sturdy Dog Stairs and Ramp
This durable dog ramp helps puppies and small dog breeds, like Dachshunds and Corgis, safely hop up on your couch to snuggle without breaking a sweat. Its scalloped design makes it easy for dogs with short legs to climb up, and the non-skid bottom surface keeps it anchored, so the ramp stays in place for your dog’s safety. It isn’t ideal for large breed dogs, but pups under 60 pounds are likely to appreciate the gentle gradation.
Key Features:
- 15.7 inches tall and weighs under 5 pounds
- Recommended for dogs 60 pounds and under
- Initially comes compressed and takes 24 to 48 hours to fully inflate before your pup can use it
Best for Large Dogs: Zinus Easy Pet Stairs
Joint pain, surgery, and age are some of the most common reasons big dogs seek out ramps. These four-step, high-density foam stairs support them the whole way. The removable cover is machine-washable and features a non-slip bottom for sturdy support.
Pillow-style ramps and stairs don’t fold down, which makes them a bit of a space commitment—but this one looks so nice we don’t really mind.
Key Features:
- Available in five sizes: x-small, small, medium, large, and x-large
- 7-inch steps
- 24 inches high and 28 inches wide in total
Best for Traction: PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp
Traction is essential when choosing a dog ramp for outdoor use, and this folding pet ramp provides reliable support to keep your dog safely moving in and out of your car or truck. Whether wet or dry, the non-slip surface provides secure traction and holds up to 500 pounds, making it an ideal large dog ramp for bigger pups to safely use.
Key Features:
- Measures 36 inches folded and 72 inches unfolded
- Weighs 18.5 pounds and has ergonomic carrying handles, so it’s easy to transport
- Non-slip rubber grips on each end of the ramp keep it secure and in place
Best for High Beds and Furniture: Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps
Got a high bed or couch that your pups have trouble hopping up on? Don’t despair—these tall foam steps will get them from point A to point B. The four-step design is 18 inches tall, and if that’s not high enough, there’s also a five-step, 22.5-inch option to give your dog an extra boost. These foam steps are good for dogs of all ages, including older pups who need extra support getting up and down.
Key Features:
- Available in 17 colors and designs and three sizes: three steps (13.5 inches tall), four steps (18 inches tall), and five steps (22.5 inches tall)
- Removable cover that’s machine-washable
- Weighs under five pounds, so it’s easy to transport
Best Foldable: Arf Pets Foldable Dog Stairs
Whether you need foldable dog steps to easily move around your home or to take with you when you travel, this dog ladder is up for the task. The four-step stair set features a five-level height adjustment, so you don’t need to buy multiple ramps for furniture of different heights. The fabric-lined steps help give your dog’s paws a good grip to prevent them from slipping.
Key Features:
- Can hold up to 100 pounds
- Can be folded for portability and storage
- No assembly required
What To Look For in a Dog Ramp or Steps
Dogs need ramps for a number of reasons. Puppies and little dogs may need help accessing areas they can’t make it on their own short legs. Big dogs are often too heavy to lift into the back of a car. And senior and arthritic pups may not have the joint mobility to enjoy the bed or the couch without some help.
Then, too, there are the breeds for whom ramps are a matter of course. As Christine Caplan points out, “As a certified vet technician and proud pet parent to two Doxies, I’ve seen a lot of dogs with disc disease (including Bruiser, my almost 14-year-old Doxie). Ramps, in this case, aren’t optional. They’re a necessity to daily life.”
Ultimately, your ramp’s purpose is your best guide to what you need. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself to narrow the field:
Does the ramp need to be up when you’re not around? If yes, then you’re probably looking at a more permanent addition to your home. Skip the folding options and find a ramp you like the look of. You’ll also want to prioritize a steady base and—if you opt for fabric—something sturdy enough to withstand any experimental chewing.
Does your dog prefer ramps or stairs? Pet ramps and stairs aren’t always immediate wins, and it can take a lot of training and positive reinforcement to get a pup comfortable enough to use them. One thing that can make the job easier is finding an option that suits your dog’s existing preferences. Does your pup always gravitate toward the ramp at the park instead of the stairs? What textures and surfaces do they seem to avoid?
We’ve found pillow steps and soft scalloped ramps tend to be easier sells than long metal gangplanks or wooden stairs—but every pup is different.
Does your dog have slippery paws? Some dogs, especially senior dogs, have a hard time with slick surfaces. If that’s your pup, avoid some of the slippery fabric-covered options and focus on stairs and ramps with grippy carpet or rubber ridging. It’s also a good idea to look into replacement covers and pads, since heavy use can wear covers down over time.
Do you need to use this ramp with furniture of different heights? Adjustable stairs and ramps are your best bet, and a folding option is nice if you’ll be moving them around frequently.
How We Chose
The dog ramps featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing and a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms. We considered durability, incline gradation, traction, and adjustability when choosing stairs and ramps. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated dogs, who are never stingy with their feedback.
