Last Updated: 17/12/2025
Dog Stairs vs. Ramps: Which Mobility Aid is Right for Your Pet?
Worried about your dog jumping onto the bed or into the car? This vet-guide breaks down the differences between dog stairs and ramps, covering joint health, size, age, and injuries. Learn what to look for in a mobility aid to keep your pet safe and comfortable.
Author: Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 8 minutes - short read
Every dog owner knows the worry of watching their furry friend struggle to reach their favourite spot. Whether it's an older dog with stiff joints, a tiny puppy with delicate bones, or a small breed with a big vertical leap problem, the strain of jumping onto the couch, bed, or into the car can be a real pain. This constant impact isn't just inconvenient; it can actually worsen conditions like arthritis, increase the risk of Intervertebral Disc Disease and lead to long-term joint issues.
The good news is that you don't have to watch them struggle! Dog stairs and ramps are simple, game-changing tools that give your pet safe, easy access to high places, protecting their joints from unnecessary wear and tear. But which is the best fit for your best mate?
In this article, we’ll dive into the critical differences between stairs and ramps, helping you make the most informed decision to keep your dog comfortable, happy, and jumping for joy (but not too high!).
Why your dog might need a ramp or stairs
Selecting the appropriate mobility aid for your canine friend depends on a variety of factors. These can include the breed, size, age, health condition, and physical capabilities of your dog, as well as the height of the surfaces you want your dog to access. Here's a detailed look at some of the situations when you might need a ramp or stairs for your dog:
Senior Dogs
As your beloved pet ages, they may experience mobility issues due to weakening muscles or age-related conditions like arthritis. This can make it difficult for them to jump or climb as they once did. If your older dog is struggling to get on the bed, into the car, or up the stairs, consider investing in a dog ramp. The gentle incline of a ramp can be easier for senior dogs to navigate than stairs, reducing strain on their joints and preventing potential injuries.
Dogs with Arthritis and Joint Issues
Arthritis is a painful condition that affects many dogs, particularly in their later years. The inflammation in the joints can make it extremely painful for your dog to climb or jump. In addition, dogs with hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation can also find climbing and jumping difficult and painful. In these cases, a dog ramp is an excellent tool to help your dog access higher surfaces. The smooth, inclined surface of a ramp minimises the pressure on their joints, reducing their pain and discomfort.
Small Dogs
Dogs with shorter legs, like Dachshunds or Corgis, often struggle to climb onto higher surfaces. Additionally, constantly jumping up and down can put undue stress on their joints and spine, leading to potential injuries or health problems like IVDD down the line. Dog stairs or a ramp with a gentle slope can be a great aid for small dogs, providing them easy access to higher surfaces.
Puppies
Puppies, while they are full of energy and curiosity, still have delicate bones and joints. They can easily injure themselves while jumping from higher places or navigating adult-sized stairs. In this case, using a ramp or specially designed dog stairs can be beneficial. These tools provide a safer way for your little pup to join you on the couch or bed.
Dogs Recovering from Injuries
If your dog has recently undergone surgery or is recovering from an injury, they may temporarily struggle with mobility. This is another situation where a dog ramp or stairs could be invaluable. The use of these tools can help prevent further injuries and aid in your dog's recovery process.
Whether to choose a ramp or stairs can depend on the specific injury or condition. For instance, if your dog has joint pain, a ramp is likely the better choice. If your dog is healing from a broken toenail or paw pad injury, either a ramp or stairs with low, wide treads could be suitable. Always consult with your vet in case of injuries to determine the best solution for your dog.
Dogs prone to IVDD
IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between the vertebrae bulge or burst, causing severe pain and potential paralysis. Repetitive, high-impact movements - like jumping down from a sofa, bed, or car - can put excessive, damaging strain on the dog's long spine. By providing a safe ramp or low, wide stairs, you effectively eliminate the need for these dangerous jumps, significantly reducing the pressure on the intervertebral discs and helping to prevent or manage this condition.
Dog stairs: The pros and what to look for
Dog stairs are essentially mini versions of human stairs, designed with smaller, shallower steps that make climbing simple and safe for your pet. They are typically compact and can be easily placed next to a bed, couch, or car.
The main benefit of dog stairs is that they offer a straightforward way for your dog to go up and down without needing to jump. This is especially helpful for smaller dogs and puppies, who might struggle to jump onto high surfaces.
Key features when picking dog stairs
To ensure the stairs are the right fit and safe for your dog, look for these features:
- Step Depth and Height: These measurements are crucial for comfort. If your dog can easily manage human stairs, a step height of 25–30 cm is generally appropriate. For a puppy or a small, short-legged dog, choose stairs with a smaller height, such as foam stairs. (Just note that foam stairs are often not sturdy enough for larger dogs.)
- Sturdiness and Weight Limit: Always check the product description for the maximum weight capacity. This is critical if you have a larger breed, as the stairs must be sturdy enough to handle their weight without wobbling or collapsing.
- Anti-Skid Surface: For safety, the steps should have an anti-skid surface (like carpet or rubber) to ensure good traction and prevent your dog from slipping during use.
Hot Tip: To choose the right size, use a tape measure to get the exact height your dog needs to climb (e.g., from the floor to the top of the bed). Then, match this measurement to the product specifications.
Dog ramps: The pros and what to look for
A dog ramp is a flat, inclined surface that creates a gentle slope from the ground up to the elevated surface.
The key benefit of a ramp is that it significantly reduces strain on your dog's joints. Instead of having to lift their body over individual steps, a ramp allows them to walk up a gradual incline. This makes them an excellent choice for:
- Older dogs or those with arthritis: The smooth surface is far easier on painful or stiff joints.
- Dogs with vision problems: It can be easier for them to navigate the continuous, even surface when descending.
Key features when picking a dog ramp
When selecting a ramp, these features are pivotal for ensuring comfort and safety:
- Slope and Height: The ramp's height should reach the top of the intended surface (like a car boot or couch). Ensure the ramp is long enough to provide a gentle slope. A ramp that is too short will be too steep and can still strain your dog.
- Anti-Skid Surface: This is a non-negotiable safety feature. The surface material must offer sufficient grip to prevent your dog from slipping, especially on steeper inclines or when descending.
- Sturdiness and Weight Limit: The ramp must be sturdy, particularly if you have a larger dog. It should be capable of bearing your dog's weight without any wobbling or collapsing.
- Portability: If you plan to use the ramp for car travel, look for one that is foldable, sturdy, and lightweight to make transport and storage easy.
Hot Tip: Just like with stairs, measure the height your dog needs to climb and compare this against the ramp's specifications. This ensures you choose the right size for safe and comfortable use.
FAQs
Remember, the choice between stairs and a ramp should ultimately prioritise your dog's comfort and safety. Whichever option you choose, make sure it's sturdy, provides good traction, and is the right height for your dog. Always introduce the new tool slowly, using treats and positive reinforcement to create a positive association.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Wed 17 Dec 2025
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Dr. Maree graduated from the University of Queensland in 1990 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and has worked in a wide variety of practices around Australia and in Papua New Guinea. She has cared for all creatures great and small and has a particular interest in senior pets and horse nutrition
