Big dogs’ size is appealing to many canine lovers around the world, especially since they offer so much more real estate to snuggle with! 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 a dog ramp or stairs. These make it easier for your large dog to get on and off of high locations.

Choosing between the hundreds of online options can be a bit overwhelming, though. So, if your large dog needs a set of stairs or a ramp, these reviews will lead you in the right direction!

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (Updated in 2024)

The 8 Best Dog Ramps and Stairs for Large Dogs

1. PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Dog Car Ramp — Best Overall

The PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Dog Car Ramp has our vote for the best overall dog ramp and stairs for large dogs. It 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’s also a built-in latch and rubber feet that prevent it from sliding while in use.

This ramp is only 18 pounds and can be adjusted to be a more compact size. The handle 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 dog will always have a secure surface to stand on. It is a little pricey but well worth the investment.

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2. PetSafe Happy Ride Foldable Dog Car Ramp — Best Value

One of the best dog ramps and stairs for large dogs for the money is the PetSafe Happy Ride Foldable Dog Car Ramp. It’s affordable and can hold dogs that weigh up to 150 pounds. There is a high-traction surface, and it only weighs 10 pounds, so it is easy to move. The plastic material is not as durable as some other ramps but is still safe enough for most large breeds. This choice is also more compact for storage since it folds in half and is smaller overall.

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3. Pet Gear Free-Standing Foldable Dog Car Steps — Premium Choice

Pet Gear Free-Standing Foldable Dog Car Steps are 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 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 this list.

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4. PetSafe CozyUp Wooden Cat & Dog Ramp — Best for Puppies

The PetSafe CozyUp Wooden Cat & Dog 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.

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5. Pet Gear Free-Standing Extra Wide Dog Car Ramp

The Pet Gear Free-Standing Extra Wide Dog Car Ramp is perfect for dogs up to 300 pounds. The wide 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.

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6. Pet Gear Easy Step III Extra-Wide Cat & Dog Stairs

The Pet Gear Easy Step III Extra-Wide Cat & Dog Stairs is an 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, though 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 that you’re making a wise investment.

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7. TRIXIE Indoor Wooden 3-Step Pet Stairs

The good thing about wood stairs, even lightweight ones like the TRIXIE Indoor Wooden 3-Step Pet Stairs, is that they are sturdy. This set can support up to 110 pounds, making it ideal for small to medium-sized pups (or cats!). These TRIXIE stairs have a simple, clean look, with clear varnish on the wood to protect it, though you can still add color or otherwise customize them as your next décor project. The most unique feature is that the top of each step is removable to reveal space for storage. The carpet isn’t plush, but it will prevent your pet from slipping and is easy to clean. The downside is that these steps are expensive and too narrow for some pets.

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8. Trixie Two-Fold Dog Car Ramp

• Dimensions: 61.4 x 15.7 x 5 inches
• Weight: 11 pounds
• Materials: Plastic

What we love most about this Trixie Two-Fold Dog 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. Unfortunately, there is also no non-slip rubber, so your dog might slide down it easier than they can climb up!

• See Also: Best Dog Ramps for Boats

Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Dog Ramps & Stairs for Large Dogs

There is no point in buying a dog ramp or stairs if they aren’t going to make moving from the ground into your car simpler for your pup. 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 pup. 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 on the stairs themselves. If the product lacks any sort of grip that keeps your dog from sliding, 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 many 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 can advise you 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, try out the PetSafe Foldable car ramp for a cheaper option that is just as durable. After reading about these products, we hope that the reviews have helped you come to a decision that you and your pup are happy with.

• You may also want to consider: Best Dog Ramps for Beds

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Featured Image Credit: Dagmar Breu, Shutterstock