Large dogs offer so much more to snuggle up with and their large size is appealing to many dog lovers around the world. Unfortunately, they aren’t that easy to travel with and sometimes have joint issues as they age, making it harder for them to jump into our cars or climb into bed with us. One simple solution is to buy them a dog ramp or stairs. Ramps and stairs make it easier for your large dogs to get in and out of high locations.
Having to choose between the hundreds of online options can be a bit overwhelming, though. If your large dog breed needs some stairs or a ramp, then these reviews are going to steer you in the right direction.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (Updated in 2023)
The PetSafe Happy Ride Car Ramp has our vote for the best overall dog ramp for large dogs. The ramp comes in two different sizes, so even giant breeds can safely use it. The surface of the ramp is non-slip with side rails to give your dog confidence while using it. There is also a built-in latch and rubber feet that prevent it from sliding while in use.
PetSafe’s ramp is only 18 pounds and can be adjusted to be a more compact size. The handle on the size also makes it easy to move. Depending on the size you buy, each design can hold between 300 and 400 pounds, so you know your large dogs will always have a secure surface to stand on. It is a little pricey, but well worth the investment.
Pros
Two different sizes available
Non-slip surface
Side rails
Easy to move
Holds between 300–400 pounds
Cons
Expensive
2. PetSafe Happy Ride Foldable Dog Car Ramp – Best Value
One of the best dog ramps for large dogs for the money is the Happy Ride Foldable Dog Car Ramp from PetSafe. This ramp is affordable and can hold dogs that weigh up to 150 pounds. There is a high-traction surface, plus it only weighs 10 pounds, so it is very easy to move. The plastic material isn’t as durable as some other ramps but is still safe enough for most large dog breeds. This choice is also more compact for storage since it folds in half and is smaller overall.
Pros
Affordable
Holds up to 150 pounds
High-traction surface
Only weighs 10 pounds
Compact for easy storage
Cons
Plastic isn’t as durable as other materials
3. Pet Gear Free-Standing Foldable Dog Car Steps – Premium Choice
Pet Gear has created these wonderful free-standing, foldable steps for large dogs. The stairs have two different levels, each with a large surface for the dog to stand on. While the steps are very large, they do fold down into a compact size and these stairs are safe for all dog breeds since they hold up to 350 pounds. The edges are raised, and the legs have rubber grips to prevent sliding.
They also come with carpeting that helps keep mud out of your car but is machine washable. One downside to these stairs is that they are heavier than many of the other products on our list.
Pros
Large standing surface
Washable carpeting
Holds up to 350 pounds
Folds into a compact size
Raised edges with rubber feet
Cons
Expensive
Heavy
4. PetSafe CozyUp Wooden Cat & Dog Ramp – Best for Puppies
The PetSafe CozyUp Ramp is a perfect choice if you’ve got large puppies running around. This ramp allows dogs weighing up to 120 pounds to crawl into bed with you. The carpeting on the ramp is soft but can be a little slippery at times—especially for excited dogs! The stylish wooden design comes in two different colors to match your décor and is durable for long-lasting use. There is no side rail for extra security, so some dogs might not feel secure when first using this ramp.
The Pet Gear Free-Standing Extra Wide Car Ramp is perfect for dogs up to 300 pounds. The wider base makes dogs feel more secure while using it, and the rubberized bottom grips the floor for secure placement. Raised edges also help keep pets from sliding off the sides. The ramp is a bit heavy to carry and move but folds into a smaller size for easy storage. The plastic material isn’t as sturdy when giant breeds use it, though.
Pros
Holds up to 300 pounds
Wide base
Rubber bottom
Foldable
Cons
Heavy
Plastic isn’t very sturdy
6. Pet Gear Easy Step III Extra-Wide Cat & Dog Stairs
Pet Gear has created another excellent set of stairs for large dog owners, and is suitable for pets weighing up to 200 pounds. The carpet can be slippery at times, but it is easy to remove and machine washable. You do have to assemble the steps yourself although they are easy to snap together. Some reports say that the stairs are very short, which could be a problem for some dogs. However, they are affordable and durable, so you know you’re making a wise investment.
The good thing about solid wood stairs is that they are sturdy and able to support up to 200 pounds. The downside to them is that they are very heavy and bulky. Still, these steps from Premier Pet Steps have a beautiful look with two different wood stains that look great in any home. While they are also easy to clean and the carpet on the steps is soft, it isn’t removable and could stain over time. These steps are also pretty expensive and too narrow for some pets.
What we love most about this Trixie Car Ramp is that it is long enough so your dog can gradually enter your car or bed. It is also collapsible, lightweight, and easy to travel with. The ramp doesn’t have center supports, though, so some heavier dogs might not be able to use it. There is also unfortunately no non-slip rubber, so your dog might slide down it easier than they can climb up!
Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Dog Ramps & Stairs for Large Dogs
There is no point in buying a dog ramp or dog stairs if they aren’t going to make moving from the ground into your car simpler for your pooch. Keep in mind that there are several factors that could sway you to buy one ramp over another.
Are Ramps or Stairs Better for Large Dogs?
This depends on your pet’s preference as some dogs need a more gradual incline because of arthritis and joint issues, but others find that using stairs is easier. Either way, it could take some time for your pet to adjust.
What to Look for in Dog Ramps and Stairs
Size
The size of the ramp or stairs affects a variety of factors for your pooch. The steepness of the incline, how safe your dog feels while using it, and proper support that remains durable are all things to think about. In the end, the goal is to make your dog’s life easier while still keeping them safe.
Grip
Many people buy ramps or stairs for their large dogs without thinking about the coating that is on the stairs themselves. If the product lacks any sort of grip that keeps your dog from sliding, then it could lead to an accident that ends up injuring your dog. Your pet might also not feel as secure while using it because it’s too hard for them to climb. When making your purchase, try to find something that is going to make the climb easier for your pet instead of more challenging.
Conclusion
There are loads of potential ramps and stairs for you to purchase, but knowing what to look for based on your pet’s breed is crucial. Large dogs need something stable, secure, and durable. Veterinary physiotherapists and Veterinarians will be able to help advise on your pet’s particular needs.
With these factors in mind, we have found that the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Ramp is the best overall choice for large dogs. If this pricier option is out of your budget range, then try out the PetSafe Foldable car ramp for a cheaper option that is just as durable. After reading about these products, we hope the reviews have helped you come to a decision you—and your pooch—are happy with.
Hallie has been a proud nature and animal enthusiast for as long as she can remember. She attributes her passion for the environment and all its creatures to her childhood when she was showing horses on weekends and spending her weeknights devoting her attention to her pets. She enjoys spending most of her time in Michigan playing with her two rescue cats, Chewbacca and Lena, and her dog, Clayton. When Hallie isn’t using her degree in English with a writing specialization to spread informative knowledge on pet care, you can find her snuggled up on the couch reading books or watching nature documentaries....Read more
