The Best Dog Ramp For Easy Mobility

You may think that getting out of the car or off the bed is as easy for your pet as it is for you, but some experts disagree. Jumping off a high surface unto the hard ground consequently affects the limbs and joints of your dog. Look at it this way, when you strain your limbs, you need some sort of support albeit a cane or crutch.

The same thing goes for your furry babies, whether they're too old and wobbly to get in and out of the car or unto high surfaces, or their short feet cannot do the jump by themselves, or recovering from an injury, the best dog ramp would come in handy. A dog ramp is a safety device that helps your dogs move freely when in an elevated position, such as the back of a car, SUV, van, stair, or even furniture in your home. The best dog ramp provides support and helps facilitate your dog's movement from a high surface to another. It is the ultimate solution for all pets with joint issues and puppies that are more prone to injury from high jumps.

Choosing the pet ramp online is no easy feat. In the market, there are a sea of options to choose from, each with its own special feature and if you're buying a dog ramp for the first time, it may seem like a herculean task. Not to worry, we've prepared this detailed buying guide to help you make a choice accurately and faster too.

How do I choose a dog ramp?

What is the purpose of the ramp?

The type of dog ramp you decide to choose should be dependent on the purpose. There are different types of dog ramps in the market. There are those that are specifically made for home furniture pieces such as the bed, sofas, etc. there are others that are purposely made for several flights of stairs, and finally, there are those ramps designed specifically for vehicles. Dog ramps also come in different styles as well; the general rule of thumb is to buy one that you can use both at home and in your vehicle.

How big should the ramp be?

The size of the best dog ramp for your pet will be largely dictated by the dimensions of your furry friend. When buying ramps meant for the outdoors, you also need to consider the kind of vehicles you'd be using it with. A shorter ramp would be easier to fit in your car while a larger one would be more suited to SUVs and trucks. Indoor ramps are usually smaller and more delicately constructed.

Another important thing to consider is the weight of your dog. Have your pet weighed before buying a ramp to avoid buying one that cannot withstand the weight of your pet.

What should the ramp be made of?

Most outdoor ramps used for getting on and off vehicles are either made of aluminum or plastic. While indoor ramps are usually made with wood or fine fabric. They are lightweight materials designed with easy folding, unfolding, and carrying in mind. If you're going to be using your dog ramp frequently, then weight should be an important factor to consider.

Another thing besides the weight to consider is durability. Buying a dog ramp that would last you a long time is much more preferable to buying ramps that are a little cheaper but you have to keep replacing them because they are not durable.

Safety and stability

This is one of the most crucial factors to pay attention to when buying the best dog ramp. First, you need to buy a ramp with stable platforms. You can do this by selecting ramps with stabilizers at the top and bottom of the ramp or both right and left sides. You need to ensure that the material must be non-sliding and rough to provide maximum anti-slide benefits.

If you're buying a dog ramp that is foldable, you must ensure that its locking mechanism is intact so that the ramp can be unfolded and folded with safety. However, if the ramps are telescopic, check the similar locking mechanism that would keep the sliding panels in place.

Durability

When selecting the best dog ramps, pay attention to the construction. This is very important. The more solid the construction, the heavier weight it can carry. Of course, these quality ramps are made of durable and sturdy materials that would offer support to your canine and be in use for an extended period of time.

Traction

The last thing you need if you want is for your furry baby to slip and slide down a ramp that was put in place for the sole purpose of getting it to where it needs to go. You need to pay attention to the type of thread material used on the ramp, or the waling surface. Some are made with rough surfaces like sandpaper while others have ridged rubber of ribbed carpet. Ensure that it boldly states that the product is non-slip before buying it.

Portability and storage

Some ramps for canines are foldable or retractable so that they can easily be stored more easily whether in the trunk of a car, a closet, or underneath the bed. Other types of ramps have fixed dimensions and are retractable. If your intent is to take your dog ramp wherever you go, then you need one that is easy to carry and store away. But, if you are more in need of a dog ramp to beat at one spot inside your home, then a fixed ramp may be more suitable.

What are the types of dog ramps?

Telescopic ramp

These are dog ramps that slide in and out, one-panel layering over another until it gets to the final length. This ramp is retractable, easy to carry, and store when not in use. It accommodates varying heights and angles and is suitable for traveling.

Folding ramp

This type of dog ramp is just as the name implies, it can be made into a bi-fold or tri-fold. This feature makes it easier to store and move around when packed. And when you unfold them fully, they reach a considerably long length.

Fixed ramp

This ramp just as the name implies is fixed. It is not foldable and cannot be packed ad away. This type of ramp is usually suitable for indoor where the need to constantly move it about is not necessary.

How much does a dog ramp cost?

The price of a dog ramp depends on the dimensions and materials. You can get a ramp for as low as $30 and one as high as $300. Choose the one that meets your needs and budget.