Dog Stairs Or Ramps: Which Is Better For Your Furry Friend?

There’s nothing quite like cuddling up to your best mate on the couch or bed. Our dogs love it (and we do too). But did you know that leaping up to these places could be putting unnecessary stress on their joints? Thankfully, having dog stairs or ramps is the perfect solution for senior dogs, small dogs, dogs with arthritis, dogs that have recently had pet surgery or any other fur child that needs a helping hand. 

Pet stairs and pet ramps aren’t just for dogs that are having a rough time jumping. Even healthy pups can benefit from assistance, as minimising jumping protects their joints and bones (and of course, it saves your back from the constant lifting). But before all the different options out there put you in a tailspin – let’s break it down.  

Should I Get Dog Stairs Or A Dog Ramp?  

Pet stairs are compact and suitable for dogs that are still able to bounce from step to step. Ramps on the other hand are incredibly sturdy, easy to manoeuvre and suited to dogs of all different sizes and agility levels. For this reason, ramps remain a popular choice for many dog owners.  

When choosing between dog stairs or a dog ramp, it’s best to consider your unique circumstances – such as the height of your bed or couch and the size and weight of your dog 

Dog Stairs Pros and Cons

The advantages of dog stairs over ramps are that they can take up less space. This makes them perfect for smaller rooms. If you already have stairs in your house, then teaching your dog to use these will be a walk in the park. However, if your dog is unfamiliar with stairs then it might take a little bit of training.

Dog stairs are also a little less sturdy than ramps – so it’s best to check the weight requirements before making your decision. And if you have an arthritic or senior dog, stairs can still put a strain on their joints as they bounce from step to step. For this reason, it’s recommended you choose the right sized pet stairs for your pooch, or going with a ramp if your dog is a little less agile.  

Choosing The Right Dog Stairs

You can find pet stairs in a range of materials, such as plastic and wood. Here are some things to consider before you make your decision:

Your Dog’s Weight

Your pet stairs should be able to support your dog’s weight – so always check the product description before ordering (and remember, for larger dogs, ramps may be a more sturdy option).

The Surface

Your pet stairs should have a non-skid surface, so your pooch can climb up and down with ease and avoid slipping.

The Size Of The Steps

Your stairs should be the right size for your dog. Remember, we want to avoid the jumping motion, so your stairs should be easy enough for them to climb. 

The Weight Of The Stairs

Your dog stairs should be lightweight for when you have to move them around (you know, from the bed to the couch… did someone say spoilt?)

Dog Ramps Pros and Cons

You can find pet ramps for dogs of all shapes and sizes. They’re great for miniature breeds that might have trouble navigating stairs, as well as dogs that have recently gone through pet surgery or even a dog hip replacement. Chosen correctly, ramps are incredibly sturdy – making them great for larger breeds. Not only that, dog ramps are easy to set up, assemble and store. 

Dog ramps can take up a little more room than dog steps – so it’s best to consider the space you have before deciding. In saying that, there are some great lightweight and portable options – like the Heeve ‘Up-Ya-Get’ Wooden Dog Ramp, which can be easily stowed away when it’s not in use. 

Choosing The Right Dog Ramp

Today, you can find dog ramps for all kinds of elevated surfaces – from beds to couches to dinner tables (we’re not here to judge). They’re available in a range of different materials; such as wood and plastic. Here are a few things to consider before choosing the perfect ramp for your pooch:

A Grippy Surface

Your pet ramp should have an anti-slip surface, so your pooch can walk up to your bed feeling safe and secure. 

Ramp Length

You must calculate the right ramp length before you make your decision. You see, if you choose a ramp that is too short, this will result in a steep slope that can be exhausting to their lil legs (not to mention scary!) The longer the ramp, the gentler the slope. To find the right length you will first need to measure the height of the elevated surface. 

Your Dog’s Weight

Your pet ramp should be able to support your dog’s weight. Remember to weigh your dog and check the ramp capacity before making your purchase. 

Lightweight Material

If you plan on moving your ramp around (say, from the living room to the bedroom) it’s best to choose a lightweight material. It should be light enough for you to carry around, but strong enough to support your best mate. 

Find The Perfect Dog Ramp Or Stairs From Ramp Champ

As you can see, both pet ramps and stairs are a good option for your dog. In saying that, ramps remain a popular option as they’re easy to move, compact and incredibly sturdy. At Ramp Champ, many pet owners rave about the Heeve ‘Up-Ya-Get’ Wooden dog ramp. 

Try The Heeve ‘Up-Ya-Get’ Wooden Dog Ramp For Beds And Couches

If You Like The Sound Of Pet Stairs For Your Lil’ Guy, Try Our PetSafe PupSTEP.

These stairs are lightweight, suitable for small-medium sized pets and comes with a non-skid surface.

At Ramp Champ, you’ll find ramps and stairs of all shapes, sizes and materials so you can find the perfect one for your lil mate.

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