Best Dog Stairs: How to Choose Steps for a Bed or Couch

Why dog stairs help

Jumping on and off furniture puts repeated impact through the joints and spine, especially for small, long-backed and older dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals lists a ramp or step for getting onto furniture among home changes for arthritic dogs, and notes that trouble with stairs and hesitating before jumping are early signs of joint pain.

The AKC compares the two options: stairs take up less floor space if they stay permanently against a sofa or bed and come in more styles, while ramps are gentler on sore joints and may suit fearful dogs better. Many owners use dog stairs for a bed and a ramp for the car.

What matters most: height, rise and depth

The AKC's first rule is to choose stairs that reach the height of your sofa or bed. Measure from the floor to the top of the cushion or mattress; if the top step is lower, your dog still has to jump the last part. Adjustable models give more flexibility.

Next, look at each step. Shallow risers let small and short-legged dogs climb rather than hop, and deep treads let a dog stand with all four feet on one step. More, smaller steps are easier for small dogs than fewer tall ones. Width should comfortably fit your dog, since the AKC notes narrow surfaces reduce confidence.

Foam, framed and storage steps compared

High-density foam steps with a washable cover are light, quiet, soft to land on and easy to move. They suit small and medium dogs, but cheaper foam compresses over time and can feel unstable under heavier dogs. Plastic or wooden framed steps carry more weight and stay firm; check the weight rating.

Some steps double as storage or furniture. Folding steps are handy for travel but less stable. Whatever the build, the base should not slide on hard floors; the AKC recommends slip-resistant surfaces and checking the stated weight limit.

Best choice for each dog

For Dachshunds, Corgis and other long-backed breeds, wide, shallow, deep-tread steps or a gentle ramp to the couch and bed. For toy breeds, foam steps with many low risers. For senior dogs with arthritis, consider a dog ramp first; if you use stairs, choose wide treads and a carpeted surface.

For large dogs, framed steps with a high weight rating and a wide base. For dogs that are nervous on stairs, the AKC notes ramps may suit fearful dogs better. Place steps flush against the furniture and on a non-slip rug if your floor is hard.

Training your dog to use stairs

The AKC advises short sessions, letting your dog sniff and explore first, placing the stairs on a stable surface, and luring with treats one step at a time. Reward each step and never pull, push or punish a hesitant dog. For breeds prone to back problems, teaching the stairs early makes the habit easier.

Check covers, foam and joints regularly and replace dog steps that compress, wobble or slide. If your dog stops using steps it once climbed easily, or starts limping, that can be a sign of pain, so ask your vet.

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