Choosing a Dog Ramp

Choosing a dog ramp can be daunting. There are so many options out there. I’ll share some must-have ramps, and then it’s your decision going forward. 🙂

Ramp Features to Consider

Traction

Slick surfaces are scary for dogs so choose a ramp with a slip-proof walking surface and evenly spaced grippers for safety. Ramp grippers are very beneficial for older dogs. They can push against them when climbing up a ramp and they can control their speed coming down a ramp.

RELATED: 3 Reasons Why You Need Non Slip Socks for Dogs

For outdoor ramps, choose a non-skid surface appropriate for the weather conditions in your area. For an entire week, we were experiencing an unexpected ice storm in the deep South. I literally wanted to kiss the wide grippers and heavy duty carpet on our ramp. I couldn’t imagine having a plastic version during that weather. Thankfully, my husband is handy so he built our deck ramp for $60. 🙂

Width

In my opinion, wider is better, especially for medium to large dogs. Plus, senior dogs tend to widen their stance when walking down a ramp so provide plenty of room for movement.

Steepness

As we’re aware, walking up and down steep stairs strains knees and joints so choose a ramp with adjustable steepness. Not only is it more comfortable for senior dogs, it’s also easier to navigate post-surgery patients up and down for vet visits or potty walks. Personally, I’ve had to shimmy down a ramp for 10 weeks with Sobek, a 120-pound Rottweiler recovering from ACL surgery, and our lower sloped ramp saved my back!

Furniture Ramps

Non-skid walking surface, width and steepness are definitely factors when choosing a furniture ramp. I like the ramp style better than the stair version, as it’s easier for senior dogs to climb up and down. If you find a senior dog struggling, try lowering the slope (decreasing the steepness) and adding wider gripper bars across the walking surface.

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