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Top 5 Best Dog Ramps for Your Car, SUV, or Truck Review
Image | Name |
---|---|
| PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold Dog Ramp |
PetSafe Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Dog Ramp | |
Heininger PortablePET TwiStep 3052 Dog Hitch | |
Gen7Pets Natural-Step Dog Ramp | |
Pet Gear Free Standing Dog Ramp |
Many dog owners have been living with the misconception that large dogs don’t need a ramp and have been allowing their dogs to hop right into their vehicles. After all, ramps are for small dogs who can’t jump up. Unfortunately, that is not the case. A dog ramp is vitally necessary for every dog, be it a small or a large breed. It can be risky for both dogs to enter and exit vehicles without the presence of a ramp. Ironically, this is especially true for larger dogs. Large dog breeds have a greater risk for hip injuries when they jump or climb up a vehicle without the aid of a dog ramp. We’ll go through 5 of the best dog ramps for your car, pickup truck, and SUV.
Benefits of Using a Dog Car Ramp
Provides Mobility to Senior Dogs
A reliable dog ramp is a blessing to elderly dogs. When our beloved dog finally reaches his autumn years, he gets more prone to injuries, especially when he tries to embark or disembark from the furniture or car. A senior dog is at greater risk for breaks and falls, just like old people.
It’s so cruel to leave your senior dog isolated in the house while you enjoy some bonding time with the younger ones. A good quality ramp can at least provide your dog more freedom and safer mobility, so he won’t have to deal with the pain of climbing up and down and continue to enjoy what few years he has left with you.
Benefits Large Breeds Prone to Hip Dysplasia
You don’t have to wait for your dog to age for you to buy him a ramp, especially if you own a large dog. Large breeds are prone to acquiring hip dysplasia, so it is best to buy him a ramp as soon as possible to help reduce the risk. If your dog already has hip dysplasia, then a dog car ramp can help him climb into and out of the car with ease while he is still undergoing treatment.
What to Look for in a Dog Vehicle Ramp
Size & Weight Capacity
The size and weight capacity of the car ramp for dogs are the two most important factors to consider. The dog ramp you must choose should be the one that is built accordingly to your dog’s size. It should be wide enough for him, so he won’t trip. Likewise, the dog ramp should be able to support your dog’s weight fully.
Construction
Make sure the pet car ramp is made of heavy-duty plastic construction so that it won’t bend or break even after years of use. Plastic is ideal for outdoor ramps since they are weather and rust-resistant. Also, they are very easy to clean.
Anti-Skid Surface
An ideal dog ramp should have a non-slip trodden path where your dog can have a firm grip as he climbs. Otherwise, it isn’t a dog ramp but a playground slide.
Storage & Portability
Do you need to take the ramp with you during your travel or should you leave it waiting outside your garage? You need a little planning to ensure you make the right choice. You want a pet ramp that is easy to store and won’t consume a lot of space, especially when you decide to take it with you.
Five of the Best Dog Ramps for Cars, Trucks, and SUVs
1. PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold Dog Ramp – Editor’s Choice For Best Car Ramp
The PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold dog ramp is among the lightest full-size ramp on the market. This ramp measures 62″ x 16″ x 4″, weighs only 10 lbs, and can help your pet reach heights up to 24″. It is so lightweight: you can lift this ramp with just one hand. But don’t be fooled by its “feather-light” feature because this rugged ramp can support a 150-pound dog without breaking. Know that PetSafe is among the leading brands of pet equipment in the USA, and as their name suggests, your pet’s safety is the company’s priority.
The PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold exhibits a heavy-duty plastic construction.
To use this ramp, simply unfold it into a straight shape and rest it firmly on the chosen entryway. This ramp includes a safety release latch and four anti-skid rubber feet to ensure that the ramp always stays in place. In addition, the ramp’s trodden surface uses a black emery sheet for traction. Nonetheless, you can always replace the traction material with carpeting if your dog doesn’t like it or if it barely provides friction. As soon as your dog is finished, you may simply fold it back into a closed position, engage the safety-locking strap, and stow it away in the compartment or garage.
The PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold is a great choice since it is simple, practical, and budget-friendly. Its weight and compact design make it perfect for traveling too. Also, this product is maintenance-free. If the ramp gets dirty, you can simply clean it using a mild detergent and brush.
Pros
- Very light and durable (also economical)
- Can accommodate small to large breeds
- Compact, portable, and easy to store
- Won’t rust; easy to clean
Cons
- Traction sheet is thin and flimsy: needs to be replaced with carpet
- Does not telescope
2. PetSafe Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Dog Ramp
The second best dog ramp in our list still belongs to PetSafe, which is no other than the PetSafe Solivit Deluxe Telescoping Dog Ramp. This dog ramp exhibits a unique aluminum and heavy-duty plastic construction, making it light and durable at the same time. The PetSafe Solvit Deluxe telescoping ramp weighs only 13 lbs. Likewise, this ramp can be extended from 39″ to 72″ and anywhere between. Hence, you can shorten the telescoping dog ramp when there is barely any space or when the upper surface isn’t as high, such as a side entry to a low-sitting car, a couch, a bed, etc. The same goes for high-sitting trucks. The PetSafe Solvit Deluxe telescoping ramp is definitely an all-in-one ramp!
Moving on, the ramp’s trodden surface is non-skid for superior traction. It measures 14.5″ wide, which is enough for your large furry buddy. Also, it has no problem sustaining his weight as long as he is less than 400 lbs. This product also includes side-carry handles, a bottom safety strap, and two large rubber feet to stabilize the ramp. The PetSafe Solvit Deluxe telescoping ramp is a great combination of portability and strength with all these features. Also, it is compact, easy to use, and store. You just slide the ramp out to use and slide it back in to stow. No more folding and unfolding is needed. This product won’t rust even after several years of service. You only need soap and a bucket to clean it every now and then.
Pros
- Telescoping feature – extends up to 72″
- Closes to 39″ to fit small compartments
- Trodden surface is 14.5″ wide
- Multi-functional, portable, and lightweight
- Can hold a dog weighing under 400 lbs
- No sharp corners
- Includes 4″ rubber feet and ergonomic handles
- Won’t corrode; easy to clean
Cons
- Sandpaper-like non-skid sheet is rough and abrasive for human skin (may cause cuts)
- Non-skid surface needs replacement after some time
3. Heininger PortablePET TwiStep 3052 Dog Hitch
Another way to make it easy for your furry buddy to hop into your car is the Heininger PortablePET 3052 dog hitch. You just ‘twist’ and let him ‘step’ onto the dog hitch. Such a product is very handy, especially for dogs who seem to dislike ramps very much. The Heininger TwiStep 3052 doesn’t really meet the criteria of a ramp, but if it helps your dog big time, then why not? It’s a savvy high-end stair for SUVs or pick-ups, and for certain, many dogs prefer this ‘twist-and-step’ method.
The Heininger TwiStep 3052 provides your Doggo with lower impact and lower stress as he goes into and out of your car.
This product was designed for one-hand operation so you can carry the leash in your dominant hand while you position the step into place with the other hand. Simply attach the Heininger TwiStep 3052 to your vehicle’s hitch receiver. It easily swivels out under your bumper when you need it, and you can tuck it back again when you don’t.
The Heininger TwiStep 3052 is fully assembled. It has a large 22″ x 19″ platform with an anti-skid surface that can hold a heavy dog up to 400 lbs. You also have the freedom to adjust the clearance height. It is very durable: you can even sit on it after a long like. If you don’t like stowing and lifting ramps from your back cargo, then the Heininger TwiStep 3052 is for you! This savvy thing demands a little extra on its price tag, but that’s how the cookie crumbles.
Pros
- Fully assembled and easy to install
- Uses quick and easy ‘twist-and-step’ method
- Allows height adjustments to suit different vehicles
- Large anti-skid platform
- Perfect for small to giant dogs
Cons
- Latch is not stainless steel – requires frequent lubrication to prevent rust
4. Gen7Pets Natural-Step Dog Ramp
When Doggo thinks he is climbing up a steep hill, his instincts push him to use his claws for additional grip. Unfortunately, a ramp with a sandpaper-like surface may lose its traction over time, and replacing it with the free carpet you got from the textile depot can easily get dirty. Likewise, there are simply stubborn dogs who have mixed feelings about using a ramp. So what to do? Fortunately, you can outsmart your dog with the Gen7Pets Natural-Step dog ramp so you can save him from the risks of hip and leg injuries.
The Natural-Step ramp from Gen7Pets uses artificial grass so your dog can get a firm grip and feel confident while walking up on a surface that feels all familiar to him.
The poly-grass is dense and soft, so it will not scratch your dog’s paws or your hands. The use of paw balms can help with scratched paws. The Gen7Pets Natural-Step dog ramp weighs 17 lbs and can hold a dog weighing up to 250 lbs. The product does not telescope, but it can be folded for carrying. It also includes a soft rubber-grip handle and an automatic locking latch to prevent accidental unfolding of the ramp. The ramp’s dimensions are 72″ x 16″ x 15″ when open and 36″ x 16″ x 3″ when folded, so you can easily store this ramp in the back of your SUV. This ramp exhibits a heavy-duty plastic construction that will never bend or corrode.
Pros
- Artificial grass turf tread
- Includes soft rubber-grip handle
Cons
- Heavy
- Does not telescope
5. Pet Gear Free Standing Dog Ramp
Most dog ramps need to be attached to a vehicle hatch, but the Pet Gear Free Standing dog ramp certainly does not. This freestanding ramp is made of high-density plastic, which is extremely durable and resilient. Likewise, it features a sturdy locking brace to keep the ramp standing up in a stable position and rubberized bottom grippers for a more secure footing. This ramp can hold the brunt of a dog weighing 200 – 300 lbs. This ramp will surely hold its position without propping with its locking brace and rubberized grippers.
Moreover, the Pet Gear Free Standing dog ramp measures 56″x 16″ x 23″. It is a great choice for short-sitting automobiles as well as sofas and beds.
This dog ramp also features a removable non-skid trodden surface as well as a slightly raised edge to prevent Doggo from slipping off the side. This ramp is available in a nice chocolate color.
Pros
- Durable high-dense plastic construction
- Includes locking brace and rubberized bottom grippers
Cons
- Surface traction needs improvement
Conclusion
Although your dog can easily hop into and out of your vehicle, discourage him from doing so. Jumping repeatedly into and out of the car can cause serious health conditions such as back sprains, leg injuries, arthritis, and even spinal damage, especially for large breeds. It isn’t the same as running and playing. Dogs aren’t hoppers, so they put more strain on their legs, elbows, and hips each time they hop into higher places. Likewise, lifting a heavy dog into your vehicle isn’t convenient, especially if you yourself suffer back pain. That is why it is very important to have a dog ramp, especially if you already have a senior dog. It avoids unnecessary stress on your dog’s joints as well as yours.
As for our choices, we highly recommend the PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold as the best dog ramp for your car. It is one of the most economical choices in the market, and it has the right combination of strength, portability, and safety. The PetSafe Solvit UltraLife Bi-Fold dog ramp ensures that even your old furry buddy can still enjoy life’s simple pleasures, such as a lovely trip to the dog park.
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