Dog ramps

Which dogs benefit from a ramp

Jumping onto and off furniture puts repeated impact through a dog's joints and spine. The AKC recommends ramps or stairs for arthritic dogs, and notes that breeds predisposed to intervertebral disc disease, such as Dachshunds, Corgis and Basset Hounds, benefit from low-impact access. Puppies, dogs recovering from surgery and three-legged dogs are also good candidates.

Small breeds that leap onto the couch dozens of times a day are a common case too. If your dog has started hesitating before a jump, sitting and staring at the bed, or yelping when it lands, that is the time to add a ramp and to mention the change to your vet.

Ramp or stairs

Ramps give a continuous slope with no steps to climb, which is easiest on sore hips, elbows and backs and often less scary for nervous dogs. Stairs take up less floor space for the same height but ask the dog to lift each leg. This collection includes both, plus combination ramp-stairs.

Choose a ramp for dogs with back problems, arthritis, or very short legs. Choose stairs if floor space beside the bed is tight and your dog climbs steps comfortably. Height-adjustable models let you start low and raise the angle as your dog gains confidence.

Measuring height, length and slope

Measure from the floor to the top of the mattress or seat cushion, not the frame. The ramp's top platform should sit level with or just below that height. A ramp that stops short makes the dog jump the last bit, which defeats the point.

Length controls the slope. The longer the ramp for a given height, the gentler the climb. For a bed around 20 inches high, a ramp of about 4 feet gives a comfortable slope for most small dogs, and longer is better for seniors. Check the width too, so your dog's whole body fits without stepping off the edge.

Grip, guardrails and weight rating

A non-slip surface is essential. Carpeted ramps give paws something to grip, and rubber feet stop the ramp sliding across wood or tile. Ramps with removable guardrails add a raised edge, which reassures dogs with poor eyesight or balance.

Check the weight rating covers your dog with room to spare, especially for larger dogs and for ramps used by two dogs at once. The AKC points out that large dogs need sturdy products that will not flex or snap. A ramp that wobbles under a dog will not be used twice.

Teaching your dog to use the ramp

Lay the ramp flat on the floor first and let your dog walk across it for treats. Then set it at its lowest height against a stable surface, ideally with a wall on one side, and lure your dog up a step at a time, rewarding each step. Never push or pull.

Keep sessions short and stop before your dog loses interest. Once it walks up confidently, block easy jumping routes for a while so the ramp becomes the habit. Most dogs learn within a few days.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.