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Taking your dog places in the car means you can explore new areas and sensations (did anyone say beach?). There’s also a possibility you need the car for vet trips, too. But if you struggle to get your dog into the car, a dog car ramp could come in handy.
A dog car ramp can help senior dogs, those with arthritis or those who are simply too heavy or wriggly for you to lift to have safe access to your boot or back seat. When thinking of which ramp to buy, you need to consider how heavy your dog is and how steep the ramp will have to be.
For instance, you may have an SUV. A short ramp will have to be angled quite high. But a longer ramp will give a more soft angle. Your dog may instead benefit from steps if they’re particularly unsteady on their feet.
Even agile dogs may benefit from a ramp or some steps. Jumping in and out of cars can cause long-term issues with joints. It is also a big chance of injury, as no matter how agile they are, a simple knock against a car door or landing on the hard ground could cause issues.
You will also want to look for something with a good grip. Dog ramps can also be used indoors to help smaller dogs get up onto human beds or sofas too!
There is a lot to look out for and consider, so we have rounded up the best dog car ramps and told you why they made our review rundown.
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Our Top Picks
| Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trusted Brand  | Trusted Brand Popular Pick: Gen7 Natural-Step Dog and Cat Ramp |
| Check Price |
| Best Steps for Car | Best Steps for Car |
| Check Price |
| Best Overall | Best Overall |
| Check Price |
The Top Car Dog Ramps & Steps Reviewed
Trusted Brand
1.
Gen7 Natural-Step Dog and Cat Ramp
Gen7Pets products are smart and designed with your pets needs in mind. They’re a brand you can trust to pay attention to detail and quality. And this ramp is not only the nicest looking with the turfed soft surface, but it’s sturdy and designed with rubber stoppers at both ends to prevent any slippage.
It’s lightweight yet holds up to 250 pounds and provides one of the widest walking paths for a 72″ long ramp.
It automatically locks when folded for security and has a soft handle attached for easy transportation.
Features
- High traction surface that's soft on paws
- Handle for easy carrying
Specifications
- Dimensions: Mini: 105 x 43 x 4.8cm; Standard: 182.88 x 40.64 x 3.81cm.
- Material: Plastic, Steel
- Fold Type: Hinged
- Max Load Capacity: 250 Ibs
Best Steps for Car
2.
COLORFEY Dog Ramp Stair Steps
Unsure a dog ramp will be a good idea for your dog? Maybe you are worried that they won’t have enough stamina to climb the ramp, or that there won’t be enough grip.
If you have a tall car, there is also the risk that the ramp would need to either be a very long or very steep incline. Steps make it easier for older or larger dogs to get into a tall car, at their own pace.
The treads of the steps are non-slip, so can be placed on any surface. It takes just seconds to set up and can fold away into a small carry size as the picture shows. The build is strong aluminium and the rivet technology ensures no screws will come loose or rust over time.
Height adjustable, it will suit heights of between 75-89cm. The width of the steps is 40cm and the depth varies depending on how much they are extended for height, they average 16.5-20cm.
It holds 80kg of weight, making it one of the best for larger dogs, and just needs to be wiped down with a damp cloth if it gets muddy.
Features
- Adjustable to suit car height
- Fold up relatively small, quickly
- Really good grip on base and steps
Specifications
- Dimensions: 43 x 33 x 16 cm
- Material: Aluminium, 1680D Oxford Fabric
- Fold Type: Hinge
- Maximum Load Capacity: 80kg
Best Overall
3.
PetSafe Solvit Telescopic Dog Ramp
This bestseller is telescopic, making it easy to transport and take on trips as well as stabilise.
It also means it can be adjusted to the perfect size and angle for your pooch and car compatibility. It’s durable, and weighs only 6kg. The high traction surface makes for a slip-proof journey for your dog, even in wet weather or if they are unsteady on their feet.
Features
- Good grip
- Keeps still when used
Specifications
- Dimensions: 99-183 x 43 x 10cm
- Material: Plastic
- Fold Type: Telescopic
- Max Load Capacity: 180 kg
Best For Length
4.
PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Dog Ramp
To say that the heaviest dog ever recorded was Zorba, an English Mastiff who reached a weight of 343lbs, we think that this ramp will easily hold your mutt.
180kgs capacity makes it one of the best for heavier breeds, and the tough aluminium material means it won’t buckle or warp under the weight either.
With a telescopic extension, it can be moved to the ideal length between 99-183 cm, which also makes it one of the longest and best for all occasions and cars. Others that can reach this length and carry a big weight can suffer from sagging in the middle, which this avoids.
Despite the strength and size, it only weighs 6kg so it is comfortable to carry. It is a non-slip grip surface, and the side rails will prevent your dog from overstepping or losing their footing.
When it is all folded down, a locking latch will stop it from opening when you’re in transit. A little quick start guide is included so you can read through this before using it.
Features
- Good adaptation of lengths
- Best for heavy weights
Specifications
- Dimensions: 183 x 43 x 10cm
- Material: Aluminium
- Fold Type: Telescopic
- Max Load Capacity: 400lbs (Around 180kgs)
5.
Trixie Pet Ramp
Plastic, making it lightweight and easy to clean, this ramp is great for those occasional car adventures or trips to the vet.
Great for pets with arthritis or who aren’t as active as they once were, as well as small dogs or any owners who are unable to lift their dog into the boot.
It is able to hold a good amount, so your dog should be fine standing or walking on it. Bear in mind it is on the slimmer side, however, so even though it could hold a larger dog, they may need something wider.
Features
- Light to carry
- Can be cleaned
Specifications
- Dimensions: 40 × 156 cm
- Material: Plastic
- Fold Type: Hinged
- Max Load Capacity: 90kg
6.
PiuPet Dog Steps
Steps may be better than ramps for smaller dogs or dogs who struggle with grip and balance.
Every step has a large surface area, and the PVC material is simple to keep clean and wipe. It is also waterproof and great for any pets that weigh up to 80kg.
You can adjust the angle to suit the car and the dog. It only weighs 5kg including the bag which it comes in, which gives you tidy storage in the boot.
Features
- Folds up small
- Can be angled to suit your needs
Specifications
- Dimensions: 43.5 x 49.29 x 16.3 cm
- Material: Plastic
- Fold Type: Hinged
- Max Load Capacity: 80kg
7.
Easipet Folding Dog Safety Plastic Car Ramp
Available in blue, black or red (just in case you have a preference), this ramp has a textured tread and a rubber non-slip underbelly for extra safety.
It folds in two for transporting, and a clip will keep both sections together so it can’t fall open or become damaged when in transit. When folded, it is 78cm long, so it should be good for most car boots or at least the front/back seat.
At just 4.5kgs, it is easy to lift in and out of the car and handle to unfold it. The tread is similar to emery material, which isn’t the grippiest but for smaller, sprightly dogs is fine as they’ll clear it in an instant.
Features
- Colour options
- Good price
Specifications
- Dimensions: 156cm x 40cm x 10cm
- Material: Plastic
- Fold Type: Hinged
- Max Load Capacity: 200lbs (90kgs)
8.
RayGar Dog Ramp
This ramp is slightly different – it doesn’t fold or extend, simply being ready to go at all times. Great for anyone who doesn’t want any fussing, but who has a car which can accommodate this longer permanent size.
It can hold a maximum of 50kgs, so is best for small to medium dogs. The raised edges will keep your dog safe when they’re walking, as will the non-slip surface. A big benefit of it all being in one piece is that it is incredibly firm, with no risk of warping or folding in the centre under any weight pressure.
Features
- No fuss
- Good price
Specifications
- Dimensions: 100 x 38 cm
- Material: Plastic
- Fold Type: No Folding
- Max Load Capacity: 50kg
Best Value
9.
Easipet Lightweight Dog Travel Ramp
An entirely plastic ramp, which is great for being lightweight and foldable if you struggle to lift heavy items.
At only 4.5kgs, it is by far one of the lightest on the rundown and reviews. It also folds down small, so it will fit in most boots to carry it. And to stop the plastic from causing any accidents, the ramp is textured.
Despite being plastic, this ramp is incredibly durable, and Easipet promises that it can carry up to 200 pounds making it incredibly versatile. It also happens to be incredibly popular with other dog owners, which is always a good sign!
Features
- Popular choice
- Easy to fold
Specifications
- Dimensions: 40 x 152 x 12cm
- Material: Plastic
- Fold Type: Hinge
- Max Load Capacity: 35kg
Buying Guide
How we chose the best dog ramps and steps for cars
Two main considerations which are out of our hands are the weight and size of your dog and the height of your car. However, most people looking for help for a dog to get into a car will likely have larger, heavier dogs and tall SUV-type cars.
We looked for products that are relatively adjustable, either way. This applies in terms of height and how they fold up. All of our products chosen can hold a relatively strong weight too, which is vital for sturdiness.
Height adjustability is also important if you want to try and choose the incline your dog uses the steps on. Some won’t appreciate a steep ramp, whereas others may want to keep their climb short and sweet.
The majority of ramps or steps are made from plastic or aluminium. This makes them lightweight and also possible to fold up and take with you, which are two of the most ideal properties. Metal was the main material we looked for and favourites, as it gives the strength plastic can sometimes lack.
Another material is wood. These are often not completely foldable and are raised in a similar motion to a deckchair with grooves to place it at different heights. While they are great for something more eco-friendly and easy to maintain, they’re mostly used for indoor climbs.
Paying that little bit more may see stronger materials without losing any other positive attributes, and would also be more likely to last for your dogs lifetime.
We looked for products that are easy to put up and take down, as well as which fold down relatively small to store away or take in the boot. Good grip on both the walking surface and the base was also vital.
Other Buyers Ask...
Do I need a ramp for my dog to get into the car?
There are many reasons why a dog may need a ramp to get into the car:
- They are too heavy for you to lift
- They are suffering from joint issues and can’t jump in and out of the car themselves
- Your car is too tall for your dog to safely jump in and out
- Your dog is too small to jump up and down and won’t allow you to lift them
Studies have also shown that your dog jumping in and out of your car for prolonged periods can damage their joints and also cause injury if they miss the jump or land awkwardly. This applies to dogs young and old. Having a ramp in place from the first day can eliminate this risk.
Can a car ramp be used for other things, too?
You can use a car ramp so your dog has access to a sofa, high (or human) bed, a grooming table or to navigate steps outside your home.
If you want a ‘one ramp does all’ solution, ensure it can cover all lengths and heights, and you’re okay with it being both inside and out.
How do I get my dog used to a car ramp?
It can be hard buying something like this, as you are unsure they will like it. If they don’t, it could be money down the drain.
Always use positive reinforcement to get them up and down. A trail of treats and plenty of praise are a good idea, and with the first few goes, take them somewhere positive so they end the journey on a high and aren’t wary of using it in future.
You may also wish to use the ramp indoors at first so they can get on the sofa or go upstairs. This means they’re in a safe environment if something should go wrong, such as if they slip or the ramp buckles under their weight.
