Car rides seem to be fun for most dogs and they can’t wait for a signal to hop into your vehicle. Although some of them find it easy to jump onto your truck, not all of them can do the same as it also depends on the height of your car. There are other dogs that will require some little help getting up into your ride. That is one of the reasons why you need a best dog ramp.
Outdoor and indoor dog ramps help your dog to avoid too much jumping that can mess up things in your car. It also helps prevent hip and joint issues from developing. There are other dog breeds that suffer from joint issues and should never be allowed to jump from long heights.
Ramps for dogs offer an easy way for them to go up or down your car, sofa or bed. They can literally walk to where you want them to be to minimize the chances of long-term complications or on-the-spot injuries. The type of dog ramps varies depending on the size of your dog, height of your car, where it is being used and the weight of your dog. It can be difficult to select the best dog ramp given the wide variety of brands offered in the market.
Fortunately for you, we took the liberty to carry out a mind-racking search in determining the best dog ramp for your dog. It will act as a guide when making the purchase decision of the next dog ramp for your family friend. Our review is based on reputable companies have gained popularity for manufacturing quality products.
Contents
Buying Guide For Choosing the Best Dog Ramp
Before going through our review, it is important to determine the exact height of your truck or car for an outdoor dog ramp, and the height of your sofa, deck or couch for an indoor dog ramp.
It is also necessary to determine the level of mobility impairment your dog is experiencing and if the condition is worsening. Now that you have that in mind, you can now make a decision on the type of dog ramp to choose based on the characteristics we have listed below:
The Material Used
You have to make a tough choice between metallic and sturdy plastic ramps as they all have their benefits and downsides. The PVC dog ramps are durable and waterproof which means that they can be cleaned easily. They are best for smaller dog breeds or when used occasionally.
Metallic dog ramps on the other side are more stable, much heavier and more durable. They perform quite well with frequent use and can handle all types of dogs regardless of their weight. The only downside is that they need a lot of effort to be carried around. They are also prone to rusts which changes their appearance. Wood is the best material for indoor ramps and can blend well with your interior designs.
Height, Length And The Slope
The ramp length is determined by the rate of impairment for your dog and the height of the destination. Height is the distance between the ground or floor and the desired destination. This can be your SUV, truck, car boot, couch etc. The slope is the inclination of the ramp. This means that your dog will require more effort with a larger angle and less effort with a smaller angle. The length is the distance between both ends of the ramp.
Telescopic Vs. Folding
The telescopic dog ramps feature an internal sliding mechanism that makes them easier to use. The safety locks are detached and then the bottom half is slid from under the top part before locking the position. The tri-fold and bi-fold dog ramps are the current trend in the market that can reach a size that is much smaller when packed. They reach a great length when unfolded fully. The primary difference between the folding and telescopic dog ramps is that the telescopic dog ramps can easily be adjusted while the folding ramps only have the folded and unfolded sizes. This makes the telescopic pet ramps more versatile.
Other Features
- Weight
A heavy ramp provides a lot of sturdiness and a greater stability for larger dog breeds. Most dog ramps can stand freely and the weight is distributed evenly to maintain it on the ground.
- High traction surface
The ramp you choose should offer a safe and sure footing. It is usually specified as a non-slippery or non-skid surface.
- Carry handle
You will require a carry handle depending on your strength and size to help transport your dog’s ramp to and from the trunk or house.
- Reflective markings
This is a requirement for those who will use the dog ramp at night or in traffic areas.
- Safety latches
They are used to lock the telescoping or sliding folding pet ramp when packed or unpacked to stay secured in place.
Best for SUV
Comparison Table
| Item | Weight Capacity | Item Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Folding Pet Ramp Dr-08 | 250 lbs | 22 pounds | |
| Titan Pet Ramp | 180 lbs | 13 pounds | |
| Petsafe Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp | 400 lbs | 13 pounds |
Below are three best options for dog ramps meant for SUV.
Lightweight Folding Pet Ramp Dr-08
It is a metallic pet ramp, strong enough to support large dog breeds that weigh up to 250 pounds. A ribbed rubber surface covers the top platform to prevent your dog from slipping. It is one of the longest dog ramps available which helps your dog climb with less effort. It is a portable dog ramp that can be folded in half for easier storage. This pet ramp also good for trucks and vans.
Features
Supports up to 250 lbs, Aluminum, and lightweight material.
- Its ability to fold in half enhances its portability
- They allow easier climbing with their convenient inclination
- It is made of a durable aluminum material which is long-lasting
- It can carry large dog breeds that weigh up to 250 pounds
- The high grip traction surface allows your pet to climb easily.
- It is expensive compared to other brands
Titan Pet Ramp
This pet ramp has a slide design that allows for easier storage and transportation. It is sectioned into three parts and it is fully customizable meaning you don’t have to stretch it to the maximum. The textured surface helps your dog walk easily to the back of your SUV and it is kept stable by the large rubber feet.
Features
It weighs 13 pounds, supports up to 180 pounds, Tri-slide design, and reaches 24″ high.
- The tri-fold design enhances its portability.
- It can support large dogs of up to 180 pounds.
- It is perfect for dogs that have joint issues.
- It’s a little heavier than expected.
Petsafe Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp
It is one of the best dog ramps that can hold more than 400 lbs. It comes with guide rails on both sides of the walking surface that makes your dog feel secure when walking down or up the ramp. It has a high traction and it can be adjusted from 39 inches to 72 inches depending on the health condition and size of your dog.
Features
Supports up to 400 lbs, weighs 13 lbs, guide rails, and can be extended from 39 to 72 inches
- It is lightweight which facilitates easier transportation and storage.
- It is highly durable because of the large capacity of weight it can support
- The guide rails keep your dog secure as they move up or down the SUV
- It is slightly expensive than other models.
Best for Car
Comparison Table
| Item | Weight Capacity | Item Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kurgo Wander Collapsible Dog Ramp | 200 lbs | 10 pounds | |
| Pet Gear Travel-Lite Bi-fold ramp | 150 lbs | 10 pounds | |
| Goplus Pet Ramp Portable Aluminum dog ramp | 250 lbs | 20 pounds |
There are dog ramps which can be used for any type of car whether it is a family sedan or a small car. Here are the best dog ramps for cars.
Kurgo Wander Collapsible Dog Ramp
The Kurgo Wander is one of the best dog ramps for cars. It is made from durable plastic featuring a non-slip surface that allows easier climbing. It has the ability to support dogs that weigh up to 200 lbs. This ramp provides added comfort to your dog as it offers a gentle slope.
Features
Supports up to 200 lbs, weighs 10 pounds, plastic construction, non-slip surface
- It can be folded in half which allows easier storage and transportation.
- It is a low-stress ramp suitable for dogs with different conditions.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- Has a simple setup.
- It comes with a non-slip surface that allows your dog to climb easily into a car.
- It is not suitable for dogs weighing more than 200 lbs.
Pet Gear Travel-Lite Bi-Fold Ramp
The Travel-Lite Ramp by Pet Gear offers your pet with easier access to your vehicle for travel. It comes with skid-resistant treads to keep your pet stable even when wet. The ramp maintains its position by the help of rubber grippers at the bottom.
Features
Supports up to 150 lbs, weighs 10 pounds, inbuilt handle and easy fold
- The built-in handle allows for easier portability.
- It is folded easily for compact storage.
- The ramp is kept steady by rubber grippers at the bottom.
- It provides great traction.
- Not suitable for higher cars.
Goplus Pet Ramp Portable Aluminum Dog Ramp
This is one of the most reliable pet loading ramps that can be used on a variety of cars such as vans, trucks or SUVs. Its ability to stretch wide makes it versatile for dogs with arthritis or joint problems. It can support both large and older dogs because of its durable aluminum material.
Features
Supports up to 250 lbs, weighs 20 pounds, 15″ wide and 8 ft. in length
- It comes with an inbuilt handle for enhanced portability
- It has a high traction grip tape surface that is paw-friendly
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- It is highly versatile in that it can be used in different types of cars
- It is heavier than expected
- The price may vary depending on the length of the dog ramp
Best for Small Dogs
Comparison Table
| Item | Weight Capacity | Item Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gen7Pets Natural-Step Ramp | 250 lbs | 17 pounds | |
| PetSafe Solvit Half Ramp II | 300 lbs | 9 pounds | |
| PetSafe Solvit Mr. Herzher's Smart Ramp Junior | 150 lbs | 8 pounds |
Small dogs can be shy sometimes about walking on these kinds of ramps. That is the reason why you need to offer them something that will make your dog feel comfortable. Here are the best dog ramps for small dogs.
Gen7Pets Natural-Step Ramp
This is an extra-long dog ramp that comes padded with an artificial grass. It is very soft and natural and most dogs find this very comforting. This ramp can be folded to about 72 inches long which reduce the steepness and effort required for your dog to climb to your truck or car. It was designed to hold up to 250 lbs with a wide walking path of about 14 inches.
Features
Supports up to 250 lbs, 14 inches wide, padded artificial grass, weighs 17 lbs
- It works best for all dog sizes
- It has a side carrying handle for easier transportation
- The artificial grass provides high traction
- It is hard to grip securely when folded in half.
PetSafe Solvit Half Ramp II
Unlike most of the folding ramps we have seen before, the Solvit Half Ramp II comes in as a one-piece construction. It is nice and easy to use with no folding or telescoping required. The ramp is held in place by the rubber feet on each corner while your dog walks up or down the car.
Features
Supports up to 300 lbs, weighs 9 pounds and a non-slip carpet
- It is very easy to clean.
- The non-slip carpet aids in easier climbin.
- It is affordable.
- Can be easily transported and stored due to its lightweight.
- It is not suited for high cars or landings because of its short angle of inclination.
PetSafe Solvit Mr. Herzher’s Smart Ramp Junior
This is another small and sturdy ramp designed specifically for small dogs. Its short angle of inclination means that it can only be used for shorter landings and lower surfaces. It can be used both indoors and outdoors but is mostly preferred for couches or lower beds. The high rails made with contrasting color makes your pet feel secure as they climb up or down the ramp.
Features
Supports up to 150 lbs, weighs 8 pounds, Guide Rails
- It has a high traction surface that prevents slipping.
- It is wide enough with guard rails to keep your dog secure as they go up or down the ram.
- It is not preferable for higher surfaces
- It cannot be used for dogs exceeding 150 lbs.
Best for Large Dogs
Comparison Table
| Item | Weight Capacity | Item Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pet Gear Trifold Pet Ramp | 200 lbs | 26 pounds | |
| Solvit XL Telescopic | 300 lbs | 18 pounds | |
| Mr. Herzher's Solvit Smart Ramp | 300 lbs | 16 pounds |
Large dogs may require sturdy ramps that are capable of supporting their weight. It is important that you choose one that makes them feel safe as they climb up or down the ramp. Below are some of the best dog ramps for large dogs.
Pet Gear Tri-Fold Pet Ramp
Pet Gear Trifold works best for large dogs and allows easier access to high cars. The angle inclination of this ramp helps reduce the load on the joints and the back of your dog as they climb into a car. It is one of the best models for dogs suffering from arthritis of hip problems. It is a convenient dog ramp for both large and old dogs.
Features
Supports up to 200 lbs, weighs 26 lbs, plastic tri-fold
- Highly recommended for dogs with joint problems or arthritis
- It is highly durable
- The non-skid grit surface prevents slipping
- Best for putting dogs that are extremely timid into a car.
- It is heavier than other models
Solvit XL Telescopic
This is a sturdy dog ramp that is resistant to flexing under repetitive use when loading and offloading larger dogs. It stretches to a length of 87 inches when unpacked and can be reduced to 47 inches when store. It is 20 inches wide to offer additional comfort and safety for very large dogs. It also boasts versatility as you can get a good inclination without having to extend it fully.
Features
Supports up to 300 lbs, weighs 18 lbs, guide rails and adjustable
- It is sturdy enough to support the weight of large dogs.
- It can be adjusted to suit any length depending on the surface level and condition of your dog.
- It is highly durable.
- It is a little pricey.
Mr. Herzher’s Solvit Smart Ramp
The Smart Ramp from Mr. Herzher’s is one of the bestselling ramps for large and heavy dogs. It comes with a simple design but was engineered with sturdiness in mind. The rigid side rails are made with properties that are similar to tough fiberglass. The Shur-Foot is a proprietary technology that has been used on the tread surface. It ensures high traction and comfort for the largest dog breeds.
Features
Supports up to 300 lbs, weighs 16 lbs, Guide rails, and adjustable
- It offers a high traction to prevent your dog from slipping
- It can be extended from 41 inches to 70 inches depending on the surface level
- It is made by a reputable brand that guarantees quality
- The guard rails help your dog feel more secure
- It might not be ideal for shy dogs
Best for Older Dogs
Comparison Table
| Item | Weight Capacity | Item Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guardian Gear 4 Portable Pet Ramp | 150 lbs | 27.8 pounds | |
| PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp | 500 lbs | 18.5 pounds | |
| Pet Gear Free Standing pet ramp – Slip Resistant | 300 lbs | 20 pounds |
Older dogs are usually afraid of the ramps and might find the angles too steep for them to climb. We have selected three best solutions for dog ramps that work best for older dogs.
Guardian Gear 4 Portable Pet Ramp
This is one of the most wonderful products that can help your dog get into a car while feeling safe. It is a foldable ramp that comes in four steps. It was designed to protect the paws of your pet when climbing up or down the car. They are best suited for older dogs and other pets that have different health conditions.
Features
Supports up to 150 pounds, weighs 27.8 pounds and a fold-down design.
- It is a multipurpose dog ramp that can be used for older dogs or folded into steps for younger dogs.
- The Anti-Skid material prevents your dog from slipping
- The fold-down design increases its versatility
- It is quite heavy
- It is costly than other models.
PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp
This is one of the sturdiest ramps for older dogs or ones with hip and joint problems. It stretches up to 70 inches to reduce the effort needed by your dog when climbing up or down the ramp. It also supports heavyweights of up to 500 lbs. It is also suitable for larger or heavier dog breeds. The PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp is available in two colors; Graphite/Grey and Khaki/beige.
Features
Supports up to 500 lbs, weighs 18.5 pounds, composite plastic construction
- It can be folded in half for easier portability and storage
- Features a superior traction in both wet or dry weather conditions
- It can be cleaned with water and soap
- It is a little heavy
- The prices may vary depending on the color you choose.
Pet Gear Free Standing Pet Ramp
It is a two-step pet ramp from Pet Gear suitable for large and older dogs. It is available in three sizes; one that can support up to 350 pounds, 300 pounds or 200 pounds. You can choose then depending on the weight of your dog. The two-step ramp is mostly preferred for older dogs compared to the straight ramp as they are available in two designs.
Features
Supports up to 300 pounds, weighs 20 pounds, slip resistant
- It can be folded easily for compact storage
- Has raised edges to prevent your dog from slipping off the side
- It comes with a slip-resistant top surface that allows for sure footing
- Not suitable for higher vehicles or landing surfaces
- It is quite heavy
- The price varies with the weight capacity
Summary
Purchasing the best dog ramp is as simple as knowing your dog’s mobility and the height it will reach. It is also a matter of choosing between folding or telescoping and durability of the materials as well as quality of brand. Having an idea of what to look for in the market guides your purchasing decision when choosing the best dog ramp.
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