5 Best Dog Ramp For SUV – FAQ & Buying Guide

Are you an elderly, pregnant, or injured pet parent? At the same time, do you have an old dog, an injured dog, or a dog suffering from arthritis? Well, if that is really you, then a ramp for dogs for SUV is exactly what you need.

You see, a dog ramp for SUV trunk is a great assistive device that lets you guide your dog into a raised vehicle safely. With such a piece of equipment, you won’t worry about injuring your dog or yourself in any way.

While that’s the case, shopping for the best dog ramp for SUV is not just a walk in the park considering the many available options.

Since hand-picking a single model from an overwhelming list of similar products can be hard, this guide has done all the hard work for you by filtering out five of the best SUV ramps for dogs.

Do you Really Need a Dog Ramp for SUV?

Yes, you do. You see, when it comes to dogs, you need to note that each is different in terms of breed, personality, size, health condition, and age. For that reason, some dogs will find it extremely difficult to get to a raised surface.

So, instead of letting them jump and possibly injure their joints, hips, or muscles, a portable dog ramp for SUV is hence needed to assist your dear pooch. Moreover, the best dog ramps for cars and SUVs eliminate the need of having to lift your dog each time you need to load it into your car.

In fact, this is cumbersome if you have a large dog and you’re a senior pet parent. So, if you’ve been wondering whether an extra-wide dog ramp for SUV is really a necessity, then we believe you now know the answer.

Comparison Table:

[table id=8 /]

Best Dog Ramp for SUV ( in-depth Review)

1. PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Dog Ramp – Best for Large Size Breeds

A lot is said about versatility when it comes to PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Ramp. Designed to serve as a “Jack of all trades”, this dog ramp for SUV trailer hitch has everything that’s needed to guide your senior dog to an elevated surface without having to carry her.

Long Adjustable Size

One of the factors that make this ramp a must-have is the unique telescoping design. This design allows you to adjust the length according to the height of your SUV. Also, adjusting the length allows you to store this best SUV ramp for large dogs quite easily by locking its safety latch.

Strong Aluminum Construction

Other than the adjustable length, the PetSafe Telescoping Ramp is constructed from strong aluminum material that endures a maximum weight of 300lbs. This is a huge plus if you have the largest dog breeds.

High-Traction Surface

When it comes to traction, this SUV ramp for dogs is equipped with a textured non-slip surface that protects your furry pooch from skidding or sliding while walking.

Firm and Lightweight

Lastly, the PetSafe Telescoping Ramp is designed for travels and daily adventures. So, to make it portable and easy to pack, PetSafe has used a lightweight aluminum material that weighs just 18 pounds. Besides, they’ve used rubberized feet at the bottom to make it firm and stable.

Technical Specs

• Brand: PetSafe
• Material: Aluminum
• Color: Grey
• Weight: 18 Pounds
• Dimensions: 47-87”L X 20”W X 4”H
• Load Capacity: 300lbs

Quick Facts

• This ramp has an extended length of 87” and a retracted length of 47”. This makes it perfect for SUV vehicles with varying heights.
• This ramp is safety tested and rated to endure a maximum weight of 300lbs. This makes it one of the best SUV dog ramps for large dogs.

[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Holds a high weight limit
Retracts for easy storage
Carry handle eases mobility
A high traction surface reduces skidding accidents
Rubberized feet provide additional support[/i2pros][i2cons]The surface is easily scratched by dog’s nails
Doesn’t have a locking mechanism[/i2cons][/i2pc]

Summary

Despite a few complaints here and there, the PetSafe Telescoping Ramp is a superb pick if you have a large size dog breed. It’s also a great alternative if you have a senior dog that has arthritis or joint-related issues.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016HPTFW?&linkCode=ll1&tag=lovelabworld-20&linkId=c3a5a1af79e1350ef1efccdbad6ec882&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl” style=”flat” background=”#BC010A” size=”8″ center=”yes” radius=”round” rel=”nofollow” icon=”icon: external-link”]Available On Amazon [/su_button]

2. PetSTEP Original Folding Pet Ramp – Best for Heavy Dog Breed

The PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp is one of the heavy-duty dog ramp for SUV we’ve included in our list. With the highest weight capacity of 500lbs, this ramp is indeed a beast and the best for dog breeds that get extremely heavy.

Heavy-Duty Construction

The PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp is constructed from advanced plastic and fiberglass materials to make it extremely strong yet lightweight. This is demonstrated by its lightweight of just 18.5lbs.

Industry-Leading Weight Capacity

While most ramps boast of holding weights up to 400lbs, PetSTEP has built a ramp that exceeds this limit to an industry-leading weight limit of 500lbs. This makes the ramp the best for all types of dog breeds from light breeds to the heaviest breeds.

Rubberized Surface

When it comes to dog ramps for SUVs for crippled dogs, the grip is among the factors you can’t neglect. Here, PetSTEP has used a unique rubberized walking surface to prevent your dog from skidding. Besides offering good traction, this surface is soft and gentle on your dog’s paws.

Non-Corrosive Material

Earlier on, we mentioned that this best large dog ramp for SUV is made from plastic and fiberglass. Other than keeping the weight down, these materials are resistant to rust and corrosion. This allows you to clean the ramp with soapy water.

Folds Easily

As a folding ramp, the PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp is designed to fold into two halves for easy storage. Furthermore, it has ergonomic handles on both sides for easy portability.

Technical Specs

• Brand: PetSTEP
• Material: Plastic & Fiberglass
• Color: Graphite/Grey
• Weight: 18.5 Pounds
• Dimensions: 70”L x 17”W x 2.5”H
• Load Capacity: 500lbs

Quick Facts

• With a width of 17”, this dog ramp is wide enough to suit both small and large dog breeds.
• This ramp has rubber grips at the top and the bottom to prevent shifting when the dog is walking. This allows the ramp to be used as a dog side door ramp for small SUV.
• Lastly, this ramp is built to last. This fact is demonstrated by the exclusive 5-year warranty that’s industry-leading.

[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Backed by a 5-year warranty
Holds the highest weight capacity of 500lbs
Made from high-quality plastic and fiberglass material
Non-slip rubber surface
Folds easily for convenient storage[/i2pros][i2cons]Bounces at the center when a dog is walking
Not the best for pools[/i2cons][/i2pc]

Summary

The PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp is one of the best dog ramp for SUV. The ramp is wide enough for dogs to get on and off a vehicle with ease. It’s easy to clean with soap and water and folds easily for convenient storage.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AR7YII?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=lovelabworld-20&linkId=96847868d9ade791431c17679719aa7d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl” style=”flat” background=”#BC010A” size=”8″ center=”yes” radius=”round” rel=”nofollow” icon=”icon: external-link”]Available On Amazon [/su_button]

3. Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp for Vehicles – Best for Small Dog Breeds

Claiming the 3rd position in our discussion is the    Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp. Now, the first thing you’ll notice when you set your eyes on this best dog ramp for SUV is the unique poly-grass. You’ll also like its light weight and rubber grip handle that lets you use the ramp on your SUV without scratching the car’s paint job.

Unique Poly-Grass Surface

The first thing you’ll love with this doxie dog ramp is the unique poly-grass on the walking surface. This grass is soft and gives the ramp a good grip for dogs to walk on. The surface is also gentle on your dog’s paws.

Extremely Safe

When it comes to safety, this folding dog ramp for SUV has rubber grippers at the top and bottom to ensure that it doesn’t slide and fall off when your dog is at the top. Furthermore, Gen7Pets have added a safety tether latch to mount on the car’s rear to boost safety.

Easy Fold Design

The Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp has extended dimensions of 72 x 16 x 1.5 inches and 36 x 16 when folded. Once folded, Gen7Pets has offered a soft rubber grip handle at the top to ease mobility.

Technical Specs

• Brand: Gen7Pets
• Material: Blend
• Color: Green
• Weight: 17 Pounds
• Dimensions: 72” x 16” x 1.5”
• Load Capacity: 250 Pounds

Quick Facts

• One good thing about this dog ramp for SUV back seat is that it has received approval from Best Friends Animal Society.
• Something else about this ramp is that customers have the option of choosing any color of their choice from green, Grey to Brown.
• This ramp is also multipurpose making it ideal for a wide range of uses.

[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Perfect for dogs weighing up to 250 pounds
Has a smart bi-fold design
Offers good traction for dogs
Safety tether latch secures the ramp against the car’s rear
Rubber grippers secure the ramp from skidding[/i2pros][i2cons]Folding the ramp is a bit tricky
The safety tether latch can scratch your car[/i2cons][/i2pc]

Summary

All in all, the Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp is a superb pick if you’re searching for a dog ramp for side door of SUV. The ramp is slightly thin to fit on the door and it endures a weight limit of 250 pounds making it ideal for small dog breeds.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IAX85QU?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=lovelabworld-20&linkId=2ddf579dbcf63d4a7d65cd68c1764aa2&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl” style=”flat” background=”#BC010A” size=”8″ center=”yes” radius=”round” rel=”nofollow” icon=”icon: external-link”]Available On Amazon [/su_button]

4. WeatherTech PetRamp – Best Lightweight

The WeatherTech PetRamp is one of those dog ramps for SUV back door that are designed for large dog breeds. With this ramp, your dog will have an easy time accessing your raised SUV without sliding or skidding.

Quality Construction

The first thing you’ll love about this dog ramp is the quality construction. Here, WeatherTech has used proprietary resin that’s exclusively made in the USA. With this exclusive rubber construction, this ramp has high strength and is extremely lightweight.

High Load Capacity

Although this lightweight dog ramp for SUV weighs just 16lbs, WeatherTech has constructed it in such a way that it can handle a maximum load of 300lbs. This is a huge plus for pet parents with large dog breeds.

Non-Slip Design

When it comes to your dog’s safety, WeatherTech has used non-slip rubber feet to prevent the ramp from sliding while on the ground. The same applies to the surface where they’ve used textured rubber to provide good traction for your dog.

Custom-Designed Hinges

The hinges of this foldable dog ramp for SUV are custom made to offer advanced strength when opened. When it comes to folding, these hinges lay flat to make it easier for you to fold and store the ramp.

Integrated Carry Handles

Lastly, the WeatherTech PetRamp is designed with integrated handles that make carrying a breeze. As if it’s not enough, WeatherTech has thrown in a carry bag in the deal to protect the ramp from scratches while in transit.

Technical Specs

• Brand: WeatherTech
• Material: Rubber
• Color: Grey
• Weight: 16 Pounds
• Dimensions: 37 x 18 x 7 inches
• Load Capacity: 300 Pounds

Quick Facts

• This large dog ramp for SUV is exclusively made in the USA. This gives you some confidence knowing that you’re buying a product that has passed rigorous safety tests.
• The WeatherTech PetRamp is made from proprietary resin that gives a good balance between strength and lightweight.

[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Exclusively made in the USA
Rubber construction is free from rust and corrosion
Has an easy folding mechanism
Rubber feet prevent the ramp from skidding
Dedicated carry bag protects the ramp from damage[/i2pros][i2cons]Lacks a locking mechanism
It needs to be wider[/i2cons][/i2pc]

Summary

The WeatherTech PetRamp is voted as one of the extra-wide dog ramps for SUV. It’s also one of the SUV ramp for large dogs as it can hold heavy dogs weighing up to 300lbs. The body is made using a rubber material that’s strong, light, and extremely resistant to rust and corrosion.

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JLRF5ZW?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=lovelabworld-20&linkId=fc657d1d6cbbad5e678f1c2ead8a713f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl” style=”flat” background=”#BC010A” size=”8″ center=”yes” radius=”round” rel=”nofollow” icon=”icon: external-link”]Available On Amazon [/su_button]

5. Zerria Upgraded Extra Wide Dog Car Stair – Best Non-Slip Steps

Zerria is a brand that’s well respected for constructing some of the best dog ramps for SUVs. Their folding stairs come in varying lengths and sizes to suit a wide range of needs. The reason why stairs are considered more than ramps is that dogs are more accustomed to stairs. So, why is the Zerria Extra Wide Dog Stair the ultimate best?

5-Step Design

The 5-step design of this stair provides a gentle incline that lets your dog climb up the stairs with less pressure. This is a huge advantage if you have injured dogs, old dogs, or dogs with short legs.

Lightweight & Stable

The Zerria Extra Wide Dog Stair is exclusively made from a robust aluminum frame. This cuts the weight to 8lbs making it extremely light. But, despite being light, this older dog portable ramp for SUV is incredibly stable and supportive allowing it to hold a maximum weight of 200lbs.

Anti-Slip Surface

To prevent your dog from slipping, Zerria has used a non-slip rubber coating on the surface. They’ve also secured the bottom with rubberized feet to prevent the stair from skidding during go up and down.

Safety Guaranteed

Now, for a dog ramp to be deemed pet safe, it must pass the necessary safety tests. In the case of Zerria, this dog ramp for SUV side door is equipped with a safety tether clip to secure it safely against the car. It also has padded handles to increase friction and prevent the stair from sliding off the car.

Multifunction

Lastly, the Zerria Extra Wide Dog Stair is a multipurpose stair that suits a wide range of applications. Designed to stand at a low and high angle, this ramp for dog to enter SUV can be used on coaches, grooming tables, and vehicles with both high and low ground clearances.

Technical Specs

• Brand: Zerria
• Material: Aluminum
• Color: Black
• Weight: 8 Pounds
• Dimensions: 39”L x 36”H (High Angle) & 51L” x 28”H (Low Angle)
• Load Capacity: 200 Pounds

Quick Facts

• The Zerria Extra Wide Dog Stair can stand at a low or high angle depending on the situation.
• This best dog ramp for SUV is also easy to fold and it comes with a carry bag to offer convenient storage.
• Lastly, this dog stair is multifunctional making it usable on vehicles, couches, beds, and grooming tables.

[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Supports weights up to 200lbs
Comes with 5 convenient steps
Light and very stable
Has rubberized feet and an anti-slip surface
Safety tether latch offers additional safety[/i2pros][i2cons]The steps tend to come apart
Doesn’t hold heavy dog breeds[/i2cons][/i2pc]

Summary

The Zerria Extra Wide Dog Stair is an excellent pick if you’re looking for a corgi dog ramp. The reason it’s a perfect fit for dogs with small legs is the adjustable low and high angle design that adjusts the height from 36” to 28”. Besides, this dog stair supports a maximum load of 200lbs, which again makes it ideal for lighter dogs.

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Why Do You Need a Dog Ramp For SUV?

1. If you notice that your dog has difficulty jumping or if he appears uncomfortable or restless after jumping, then you need a ramp for dogs to get in SUV. The same occurs if your dog seems to hesitate a lot before jumping.
2. Secondly, if you have a large breed dog such as the Great Dane, Bernese Mountain Dog, English Mastiff, or St. Bernard, a dog ramp for SUV back door will be a great necessity. The reason for this is that such heavy dogs have an increased risk of joint problems if they jump from an elevated place.
3. The third reason why you need best lightweight dog ramp for SUV is when your dog is suffering from arthritis and neurological issues. Dogs suffering from these conditions have limited mobility and in most cases, they lack enough strength to jump on elevated places.
4. Lastly, if you have puppies or dogs with short feet such as the Dachshund, Welsh Corgi, Basset Hound, or the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, a telescoping dog ramp for SUV will be a necessity. You see, with such small dog breeds, you can’t afford to let them jump off an elevated place as they can break or injure their joints severely.

Buyer’s Guide — Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Ramp for SUV

Size:

When choosing the best dog ramps for SUV, it’s always wise to start by checking the size. Here, you’ll need to consider two things. The first one is the size of your dog while the second is the height of your SUV. So, to kill two birds with one stone, it’s wise if you get a long and wide dog ramp for SUV with a folding or telescoping design.

Such a ramp is important as it can suit SUV vehicles with high and low ground clearances without creating a steep dangerous angle.

Material:

Other than the size, another factor you must consider when choosing dog ramps for cars and SUVs is the material used in the construction. From our discussion, two of the most common materials used are plastic and aluminum.

Plastic on its part is slightly bulky but long-lasting as it’s not attacked by rust and corrosion. Aluminum is strong and lightweight but susceptible to rust and corrosion attacks. So, when choosing the material, you must consider how often you’ll be using your lightweight dog ramp for SUV.

Load Capacity:

Once you’re through picking your desired material, the next thing you need to pay close attention to when choosing ramps for dogs to get into SUV is the maximum weight limit. Whether your dog is a small or a large breed, the weight limit will most likely fall in the 100-400lbs bracket.

Therefore, when choosing a ramp for dogs to get in rear of SUV, you need to confirm how much weight it can hold. Thankfully, our dog ramps for SUV review have included the weight limit of each ramp we’ve listed.

Folding vs. Telescoping:

Should you get a folding or a telescoping dog ramp? This is another factor you must consider when picking a dog ramp for SUV that can tow. In most cases, telescoping dog ramps for SUV’s are hugely considered as they allow you to adjust the length when needed.

On the other hand, folding ramps are great if you’re looking for a side entry dog ramp for SUV that can fold easily for convenient storage.

Traction:

For your dog to use a ramp safely, the surface should have good traction. For that reason, you need to pick a carpeted dog ramp for SUV or one that has non-slip surfacing. Here, you need to check the surface really carefully to avoid getting a ramp with an extremely soft or hard surface.

A soft surface will offer plenty of traction. However, due to its soft nature, your dog might tear the textured pad too early while the ramp is still new.

On the other hand, a hard surface might offer great traction but prove to be too abrasive to a point of injuring your dog’s paws.

Portability:

Finally, yet importantly, you need to consider the weight of your ramp and how portable it is. Here, you need to pick lightweight dog ramps for SUVs to keep the weight down. Most of the ramps we’ve discussed here have a weight that ranges from 8 to 18 pounds.

Most of these pet ramps for dogs SUV have portable handles and safety latches that allow you to lock the ramps to improve portability. Since you’ll be carrying the ramp each time you have your dog onboard, you need to consider its portability to ensure it’s not bulky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Use a Dog Ramp for SUV?

If you have a dog and a raised SUV, then you need a dog ramp for side door of SUV. Here are some of the reasons that show how important a dog ramp is.

1. Senior Dogs: Just as humans, senior dogs have worn-out joints and muscles due to their age. Forcing such dogs to jump from raised surfaces can expose them to severe injuries. For that reason, large dog ramps for SUVs are hence needed.
2. Dogs With Severe Conditions: Severe conditions can range from joint issues and injuries to arthritis. So, to reduce these pains and possibly avoid hastening joint deterioration, dog ramps for SUV side doors are hence needed.

• Pups and Small Breed Dogs: Although these types of dogs can leap from the ground to your vehicle and vice versa, it’s just a matter of time before they develop joint issues. So, to prevent them from straining their joints too much, you need to get them a dog ramp.

What’s The Benefit Of A Dog Ramp Over Collapsible Or Adjustable Stairs?

According to professional vets, dog ramps for large dogs SUV are more reliable than collapsible or adjustable stairs. You see, with ramps, your dog will not use too much pressure walking on the textured non-slip surface.

The same cannot be said with a fleet of stairs. With stairs, your dog will strain a lot when negotiating the fleet of stairs making things worse.

How To Safely Use A Dog Ramp On SUV?

To safely use the best dog ramps for SUV, you need to start by placing the ramp on the rear or the side of your SUV. Here, you need to make sure that you follow the right instructions to prevent the ramp from wobbling. Once you’re done, lure your dog to use the ramp by giving him/her treats.

How Steep Can A Dog Ramp Be?

Now, the best pet ramp for SUV dog 150 pounds should have an incline of 18-20 degrees for small dog breeds to walk on top effortlessly. In the case of medium to large size dogs, the incline should be around 22-25 degrees.

How Do I Get My Old Dog Into An SUV Using A Dog Ramp?

If you have a senior dog that doesn’t know how to use a ramp, then you can teach them to use one simply by luring them. Here, all you need is to place treats on the ramp and have the dog walk on the ramp as it gets the treats. Continue this procedure until your dog masters how to use the ramp.

What Is The Best Dog Ramp For SUV?

The best SUV ramps for large dogs are the ones that tick all the required checkboxes. One of them is a comfortable incline that suits your dog. Another one is a good gripping surface while the last factor is lightweight for easy portability.

How To Make A Dog Ramp For SUV?

• The first step is to use a sheet of plywood to design the walking surface. Here, you need to cut the sheet depending on your desired length and width.
• Next, use any textured non-slip padding of your choice to fit on the walking surface. The purpose of the textured surface is to provide good traction when your dog is walking.
• Next, insert rubberized feet at the bottom of the wooden ramp. Finalize by painting the ramp with your desired color.

Final Verdict

So, there you have it. In case you’ve been struggling to find dog ramps for SUV rear door, then this short guide has offered you 5 exclusive picks to consider. All the ramps we’ve listed here are considered safe and the best solution to get your furry pal in or out of a raised SUV without straining yourself or your dog.

But, in every contest, there’s always a winner. In our case, the PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Ramp has emerged as the overall winner. However, you need to note that this best dog ramp for SUV has beaten the PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp by a whisker.

While the latter is foldable, the former is telescoping. Being a telescoping ramp means that you can adjust the length to have a shallow or steep incline. However, when it comes to the weight limit, the PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp is the absolute best as it has the highest weight limit of 500lbs.

Other than that, pet parents with dogs that prefer stairs over ramps can take advantage of the Zerria Extra Wide Dog Stair. With these stairs, you can adjust the incline from a high to a low angle depending on your choice.

So, with that said, I believe that our list of the best dog ramp for SUV side door has provided you with some value.

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