6 Best pet stairs to help your dog

Pet stairs are just the thing when your dog is having a tough time getting around.

While pet stairs are often a great help to older dogs, they’re also a smart option for ensuring that even young pets age gracefully, as canine stairs help avoid putting any unnecessary strain on joints that might deteriorate later with arthritis.

Today we’re detailing the best pet stairs for dogs, helping your canine friend get around easier and maintaining healthy joints.

1. Solvit PupSTEPS Pet Stairs

about: The Solvit PupSTEPS are sturdy and affordable pet stairs that are a great choice when your dog needs some extra help getting onto beds or couches.

Price: $
Our Rating:

Features:

• Easily foldable & lightweight (only 9 lbs)
• Raised edges help dogs feel safe and secure
• Lifetime warranty (against material or workmanship defects)
• Dimensions are 28″L x 18″W x 25″H

Owners love the stability provided and note that it’s the perfect height for helping dogs get on high beds.

Video: Top 10 Best Dog Steps for Bed under $150

Note: This style also comes in a smaller version that is ideal for reaching couches and chairs. This design should be fine for small dogs, but those with larger dogs should go with the XL model that is detailed above.

It should also be noted that there is a wooden version of this design available that we do not recommend, as it is not as reliable as the plastic set.

2. Mr. Herzher’s Telescoping Pet Ramp

about: The Mr. Herzher’s Telescoping Pet Ramp offers a rigid, secure frame along with Shur-Foot tread to keep pets from slipping.

Price: $$
Our Rating:

Features:

• Telescopes from 41 inches to 70 inches
• Weighs 16 lbs
• Rigid, secure frame
• Shur-Foot tread prevents slipping
• Rubber ends to hold ramp in place, prevent bounce, and protect car
• Great for trucks and SUVs
• Good choice for large dogs

Owners note that this ramp is especially great for cars because the rubber ends prevent bouncing or movement and provide additional security.

3. Solvit Deluxe XL Telescoping Pet Ramp

about: The Solvit XL Telescoping Pet Ramp is a very similar model to the dog ramp listed above. The biggest difference is that this XL dog ramp model is longer, offering a less dramatic climbing angle and extra walking space.

The dog ramp can be custom adjusted to any length between 48 inches and 87 inches, so you can find the perfect length for your car, truck, or SUV. It’s extra length makes it especially ideal for high trucks.

Price: $$
Our Rating:

Features:

• 20in wide, extends from 48in to 87in
• Traction walking surface allows for secured footing
• Includes convenient carrying handle and locking mechanism to prevent accidental opening
• Lightweight and portable
• Includes 1 year warranty
• Best choice for high trucks or cars

4. Pet Studio Pine Frame Dog Ramp

about: What’s really incredible about the PetStudio Pine Frame Dog Ramp is that it has multiple positions.

It can function as a set of pet stairs, or can be converted into a pet ramp. It also can be completely collapsed and easily folded under a bed. Very cool!

Price: $$$
Our Rating:

Video: 6 Steps to Help Your Cats Get Along

 Features:

• Individual steps measure 12”D X 16”W. Ramp measurement is 40”L x 17.5”W x 19.5”H
• Sturdy and elegant pine frame
• Can hold up to 130 lbs
• Covered with soft, non-slip carpeting

This set of pet steps is a sturdy, solid, well-made piece of furniture. It works great as a pet ramp for relatively low beds or couches.

5. Snoozer Scalloped Large Pet Ramp

about: The Snoozer Scalloped Pet Steps provides another design for helping your dog get up and down high objects. These pet stairs are made of high-density foam and are less steep than other pet stair options.

The scalloped design provides secure foot-holding and can be more appealing for dogs who are normally intimidated or afraid of stairs.

Price: $$$$
Our Rating:

Features:

• Soft, micro-suede outer cover with high-density foam
• Removable cover for easy machine washing
• Supports up to 100 lbs
• Scalloped design appeals to dog with stair fright

Do these dog stairs sound like just the thing for your pooch? You can order these dog stairs today on Amazon!

6. PetStep Folding Pet Ramp

about: The PetStep Folding Pet Ramp provides a sturdy, rubberized dog ramp for cars and SUVs.

Price: $$$
Our Rating:

Features:

• Can be folded in half for quick and easy transportation
• Rubberized, grooved walking surface
• Supports many different sized dogs

Advice About Helping Pets Adjust to Pet Stairs

Some dogs can be nervous about using pet ramps, and it’s important to let them slowly adjust to the new ramp or steps. Here’s how you can help your dog adjust to doggy steps:

1. Start with the collapsed ramp (when applicable). Have your dog walk back and forth across the collapsed ramp on the floor, encouraging them with treats.

2. Use the dog steps or ramp with an object at a small height, like a low chair. Use treats to entice the dog to walk up and down the steps.

3. Extend the dog steps or ramp to full length and use for the height you desire. Hopefully by now your dog is used to the steps or ramp enough to not be afraid. Don’t forget to continue using treats for a while and to offer lots of praise and encouragement!

 Why Pet Stairs Are a Smart Choice

Many owners don’t realize that encouraging dogs to jump up and walk on their hind legs can have negative arthritic effects as dogs age.

It’s important to always encourage healthy joint activity, no matter what the age of your dog. This is why pet steps are a great idea, even if your dog can currently get around without them. Preventive measures pay off!

For other ways to help senior canines, check out our post detailing the best dog beds for old dogsas well as our post reviewing the best dog food for senior dogs.

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