10 Best Dog Ramps for Older Dogs in 2021 [Detailed Review]

This blog post is a complete guide to choosing the best dog ramps for older dogs.

We analyzed dozens of ramps to learn more about the perks and downsides of the different ramps for dogs. 

First, we established some parameters, such as weight limit, portability, durability, and size, to determine the top-notch qualities of each product under evaluation. 

Then, we thoroughly went through the specifications, pros, and cons of dog ramps to draw a fair comparison.

We know your dog is your star no matter how old he grows. But it’s sad to see him struggling while getting on and off the normal heights, like, his bed and couch, or into a car.

Why not give your senior pet a dog ramp to walk over with ease?

That’s a great idea, indeed! 

Dog ramps make your senior fur friend’s life easier by taking care of their joints and taking the strain off their joints.

Keep reading to find out the results of our exhaustive research.

At A Glance: Best Dog Ramps for Older Dogs in 2021

1. PetSafe Extra Long – Telescoping Dog Ramp
2. Pet Gear Travel Lite Ramp – Maximum Traction
3. PetSTEP Original Ramp – Easy Folding
4. LUFFWELL Portable Dog Stairs – Foldable Stairs
5. PetSafe CozyUp – Bed Ramp
6. Pet Gear supertraX Free – Free-Standing
7. Gen7Pets Natural Step – Natural Step
8. Heininger PortablePET Twistep – Hitch Step
9. Doggie Ramps – Adjustable Sofa Ramp
10. Pet Gear Reflective – Extra Wide

Why does your old dog need a dog ramp?

Aging takes a heavy toll on the joints of older dogs.

As dogs get older, the cartilage surfaces of their joints start thinning. And cartilage cells start dying.

Results?

Their easy walks turn stiff. 

High jumps? No longer possible!

Furthermore, older dogs are at a high risk of developing arthritis, osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia. Research shows that 80% of dogs over the age of eight-year develop this condition. 

Pretty alarming, right?

So, your oldie needs a dog ramp because he has become senior enough that he needs assistance in performing his usual tasks like climbing upwards and getting downwards effortlessly.

Benefits of Using a Dog Ramp

When you opt for any of the best dog ramps for your older dog, the benefits you may reap are listed below.

#1 Facilitate Easy Movements

Mostly, older dogs are reluctant to make huge leaps. Why so?

It’s because their joints have become fragile!

 If you choose the best dog ramp for your older dog, it can give them their long-lost confidence.

#2 Alleviate Joint Stress

When they assist your dog in ascending or descending, dog ramps relieve the stress on their joints. Dogs are more likely to suffer from joint pain and inflammations at their ripe age.

So, the less stress on the joint, the better!

#3 Reduce Risk of Injury

When trying to jump up, dogs can miss out on their desired place and end up hurting themselves. In that case, a dog ramp can be savvy. 

Best Dog Ramps for Older Dogs Reviews

Dog ramps come in a wide variety, making it difficult to select the most appropriate one.

No matter if you are looking for a ramp for a small or large dog, or perhaps suitable for indoors, we looked upon all.

Here we have reviewed some of the best dog ramps for older dogs keeping multiple options in mind.

Read on to explore all the picks one by one.

#1 PetSafe Happy Ride Extra Long – Telescoping Dog Ramp 

PetSafe Happy Ride is the top contender in our list of the best dog ramps for older dogs. PetSafe is a globally trusted brand with a 30-year prestige. The Happy Ride Extra Long dog ramp elevates its game with the extra-long length that provides the best ride with no safety hazards.

Thanks to its high-traction surface!

Key Features:

• Supports a hefty weight of 300lbs with only 18lbs self-weight
• Has a compact design that makes storage convenient 
• Features an extra-long, steeper, and gentle pathway
• Rubber feet are for stability

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Highly portable
• Easy to clean
• Safety tested to ensure your pet’s well-being
• Collapsible

Cons:

• The surface needs to be more grippy

#2 Pet Gear Travel Lite Ramp – Maximum Traction

Are you afraid that your dog might slip off the ramp?

Most dog parents are! So, you are not alone.

Shoo your fear with this Pet Gear Travel Lite Ramp. You will be impressed with the level of traction it provides. 

Key Features:

• Has a SupertraX mat on the surface; soft for paws and removable for clean-up
• Pressure activated grip allows sure-footing
• Features patented Tri-fold design 
• Has raised edges for pet’s safety and rubber grippers for stability

Pros:

• Holds a 200lbs weight
• Easy to fold
• Sturdy 
• Lightweight
• Safe to use 

Cons:

• Bulky 
• A bit unwieldy

#3 PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp – Easy Folding 

If your pet can’t jump on and off the car like he used to do, you can try his paws on PetStep Original Folding Pet Ramp.

Believe it or not, it works like a charm!

The surface provides enough traction for your dog to tread over with ease.

Key Features:

• Boasts a rubberized, soft, and non-slip walking surface
• Has a non-slip grip
• Features Molded Ergonomic Handles on both sides 
• Is constructed of Advanced Composite Plastic and can carry a weight of 500lbs

Pros:

• Offers superior traction even in bad weather
• Fits all vehicles and edges
• Opens and closes in seconds
• Easy to clean
• Helps in reducing Arthritis and Hip Dysplasia  

Cons:

• Big and Heavy

#4 LUFFWELL Portable Dog Stairs for Large Dogs – Foldable Stairs

Do the flat ramps for dogs not satisfy you?

Maybe you want to go the extra mile to provide your dog with comfort.

In that case, LUFFWELL Portable Dog Stairs are the best bang for your bucks. And guess what? They are foldable, which means storing them is no longer a problem.

Key Features:

• Features wider and more stable platform than a ramp with a gentle incline 
• Made of foldable aluminum frame 
• Weighs only 8lbs but supports a good weight of 200lbs
• Has a 4-step height for an easy reach, with each step incredibly durable
• Non-slip paw print coating surface ensures safety

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Super Stable
• Secure platform for no-slipping on and off
• Low-angle ascent for maximum comfort
• Foldable

Cons:

• Doesn’t hold big dogs well

#5 PetSafe CozyUp Pet Ramp for Dogs – Bed Ramp

Cuddle time fun can be ruined if your dog tries jumping onto the bed and hits himself, right?

The CozyUp Pet Ramp is the best way to let your dog climb up the bed with its just-right angle and length.

Enjoy your best moments together and land your dog on the bed safely!

Key Features:

• Made of real wood and rich cherry finish makes it the best fit for your room décor 
• Compact design to fit by the side of your bed
• The generously sized top area allows your dog to move with ease
• A rugged walking surface ensures a confident footing

Pros:

• Perfect for pets who don’t want to use stairs
• Easy to assemble
• Easy to clean
• Quality is guaranteed 

Cons:

• The surface is still slippery 

#6 Pet Gear supertraX Free Standing Ramp – Free-Standing

Finding stable support to lean your dog ramp is always a hassle.

What if we propose to you a free-standing dog ramp that supports itself?

That would be great, right? So, here we are with the Pet Gear supertraX dog ramp.

Key Features:

• Has a patented Free-Standing design
• Features safe grip artificial turf tread  
• SupertraX padding protects paws and offers sure-footing
• Foldable design features compact storage 
• Raised edges prevent your dog from slipping

Pros:

• Needs no extra support to rest on
• Easily foldable
• Portable
• Safe and secure
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Too steep that it becomes dangerous for large dogs 

#7 Gen7Pets Natural Step Dog Ramp for Vehicles – Natural Step

Oops! Your lovely dog just hurt herself while she was trying to jump over the car!

It would help if you had a perfect solution to this jumping problem to avoid any such accident in the future. That’s none other than the Gen7Pets Natural Step dog ramp.

Plus, its full-length rubber grippers provide secure placement.

Key Features:

• Features artificial turf tread that is gentle on your dog’s paws
• Can hold on the weight of 250lbs
• Has a compact design
• Features automatic locks when folded up

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Solid 
• Easy to fold and manage

Cons:

• Offers no real grip
• The design must have some more carry handles 

#8 Heininger 3052 PortablePET Twistep Dog Hitch Step – Hitch Step

Lifting a large dog onto a vehicle is an arduous task.

Now you no longer have to take your dog up the vehicle. Heininger 3052 dog ramp is on of the most helpful platform for getting your dog up the SUV or any other vehicle.

Key Features:

• Instant and multi-use step that provides better access
• Designed for single-hand use 
• Has an adjustable height to adjust different vehicle heights
• Can handle up to 400lbs
• The large anti-slip surface secures your pet against slipping incidents

Pros:

• Simple and easy to use
• Durable 
• Good for use in all weathers
• Can swivel underneath the vehicle
• Eliminates the risk of potential injury

Cons:

• Little pricey

#9 Doggie Ramps Adjustable Pet Ramp – Adjustable Sofa Ramp

When your old dogs start getting trouble mounting, it’s high time to buy a dog ramp.

You can never go wrong with this Adjustable Pet Ramp. It’s not only useful for getting up the couches, beds, or other furniture articles, but it also has great looks.

And, we bet your fur babies will also love it.

Key Features:

• Made in the USA, the ramp shows off excellent workmanship
•  Features adjustable heights
• Tracking has anti-slip ridges

Pros:

• Well-designed
• Easy to fold
• Non-slip
• Long-lasting
• Adjustable 

Cons:

• Too flimsy 

#10 Pet Gear Reflective Extra Wide – Extra Wide

Dogs –  that are too heavy to lift – need a spacious footpath to mount. Sure thing!

In that situation, a dog ramp with a narrower route won’t do the trick. So, the Pet Gear Reflective Extra Wide dog ramp is the solution.

It works great and folds up nicely.

Key Features:

• Brags high-visibility reflective material that guides your dog on his way
• Slip-resistant surface offers a sure-footing
• Rubber grippers keep the ramp firm in its place
• Has a built-in handle for portability

Pros:

• Wide enough for a comfortable tread
• A great choice for big dogs
• Pretty compact
• Solid construction

Cons:

• Bit Heavy
• Wobbly 

Buyer’s Guide: Things to Consider When Choosing a Dog Ramp for an Older Dog

Before you choose the best dog ramp for your older dog, here are some of the key factors you must consider.

What should you look for in a dog ramp?

#1 Size, shape, and weight

The dimensions of your dog will dictate the size, shape, and weight of the ramp. Of course!

Measure your doggie’s girth from shoulder to shoulder and keep in mind his physical stature. The best ramp for an older dog is one that’s of the correct size, has a conforming size, and can manage your dog’s weight.

#2 Steps or Ramp

The purpose of the steps and ramps for dogs is the same. 

Dogs that have no difficulty maneuvering up or down the stairs can go well with stair options. However, ramps are perfect for dogs that have trouble with stairs.

Go with the option that suits your pet’s condition.

#3 Safety 

Your dog’s safety is the last thing you would like to skimp at.

A stable platform is a safer pathway for your dog.

Furthermore, you can look for a lock mechanism and safety latches to ensure the safety of your dog.

#4 Surface Traction 

The surface of the dog ramp should have some rugged texture to reduce the chances of falling out. Also, the texture has to be paw-friendly.

#5 Construction Material

Ramps for dogs are made of different construction materials. wood, plastic, and metal, for instance!

Plastic units are lighter and best fit for smaller breeds.

On the other hand, wood and metal options are more durable and ideal for heavier dogs and large breeds.

#6 Weight Limit

Any dog ramp packed with EVERY ideal feature is of no use until it can withstand your dog’s weight.

Normally, the weight limits of ramps are mentioned.

However, a rule of thumb is to cut short your expected weight limit by a quarter. So, say, if the ramp states it can hold 200lbs, take its potential weight limit to be able to hold 150lbs. 

#7 Purpose

When you set out shopping for a dog ramp, you’ll definitely have a purpose in mind.

Like, say, either you want a ramp to help your dog get up the sofa, bed, or other furniture pieces, or for vehicles?

#8 Easy to clean

Plastic ramps are easier to clean.

If they cater to the up/down needs of your dog, well and good. If not, then you’ll opt for metal and wood ramps. Check for their surface. Does that feel easy to scrub or not?

#9 Ramp Length

Consider ramp’s length too.

The length of your dog’s ascending/descending destination also determines the length of your dog’s ramp.

#10 Storage/Portability

Look for the available space you can dedicate to store your dog’s ramp.

Once you have determined the ramp’s size, weight, and material, you have automatically decided what level of portability you desire!

And that indirectly deals with the storage issues. 

#11 Durability

As mentioned earlier, ramp platforms come in three different materials.

Among them, wood and metal-constructed products tend to outlast as compared to plastic-made ramps.

#12 Incline Angle

Now, the incline angle of a dog ramp depends on your dog’s size. For small and toy breeds, it is between 18 to 20 degrees.

For a medium breed, it’s somewhere between 22 to 25 degrees.

The average range of inclining angles in dog ramps is between 18 to 25 degrees, however.

Different Types of Dog Ramps to Choose From

Ramps for senior dogs come in different styles and shapes. Each type is designed specifically to serve a particular purpose.

#1 Heavy-duty Home Ramps

These ramps are made for indoor use. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and collapsible. Furthermore, these home ramps last longer.

The best part?

They don’t look awkward with your home interior.

The construction materials these ramps feature are either wood or plastic with a carpeted top and can manage a weight of 100lbs.

#2 Extendable Vehicle Ramps 

Vehicle ramps come into play when you are mostly on the go with your dog.

These ramps feature extendability and are collapsible.

Vehicle ramps are built with metal or heavy-duty plastic and rubber gripping.

#3 Step Ramps

Step ramps feature steps. 

These steps are a lot nicer, wider, and comfortable than the steps we use for humans. But there’s a catch!

Such ramps are a bit harder to store.

#4 Telescopic Ramps

Telescopic dog ramps give you more freedom in terms of adjustability.

Mostly, such ramps feature an internal sliding mechanism and safety locks. This helps in customizing the length of your ramp. Simply disconnect the locks. Slide to reach the required size and lock the position.

That’s it!

#5 Folding Ramps 

As the name implies, these ramps are foldable.

These ramps don’t take much storage space. But they can offer only two lengths – one, the folded and the other, unfolded!

How to teach your dog to use a ramp?

Teaching your dog using a ramp becomes a breeze if done with positive enforcement.

Make ramp training an enjoyable experience for your dog. Don’t shy away from using treats and petting your pet.

Start the initial training on a flat ramp and encourage him to step forward.

Once he’s a pro in moving over a flat surface, increase the incline little by little.

Safety Tips When Using a Dog Ramp

To avoid the risk of potential accidents, cling to these safety tips when using a dog ramp.

1. Select the dog ramp wisely. While selection, take its safety, stability, and ease of use into account.
2. Place your dog ramp at a firm and stable surface.
3. Secure the ramp with its safety latches – if it has any.
4.  Watch and direct your dog, and don’t leave him unattended with the ramp.

FAQs: 

Conclusion – Our Top Pick?

By now, you must have selected the best dog ramp for your older dog. Hopefully! 

But we have a winner on our list.

So, the dog ramp that stole the whole show with its exciting features and became our top pick in the list of top 10 best dog ramps for older dogs is PetSafe Happy Ride Extra Long.

Why? Because its slope forms a very relaxed and convenient track for your senior dog.

So, next time your oldie doggo wants to get over his favorite chair, use PetSafe Happy Ride Extra Long and enjoy his dog walk.

Happy Riding!