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Every day is a new day for an adventure for our pooch. We love taking him anywhere we go since he is what makes our day complete. We love taking him out on a joy ride, off to the park, or even in the pool.
But what if he is afraid to enter the pool by himself? What if he loves the water so much but can’t even jump in the pool on his own? Or maybe he always has a hard time getting out of the pool?
Thankfully, dog pool ramps are now out on the market, making it easy for our pooch to get in and out of the pool. Such platforms are a lifesaver, especially for dogs who are already in their senior years or are suffering from joint pains or mobility issues. Now, our pooch can enjoy the pool or take a break whenever he wants without needing our help.
If our next shopping goal is to buy him a dog pool ramp for our next trip to the pool, then we can rely on the following to make it easier for us to choose among the many dog pool ramps available in the market.
The 7 Best Dog Pool Ramps Reviews
Here are our top picks:
- Best Overall: PetSTEP Original Folding Dog Pool Ramp
- Best for Small Dogs: PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp
- Best for Puppies: LP500 Pet-Loading Platform by Great Day
- Best for Large Dogs: PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps
- Best for Lightweight Dogs: Skamper Dog Ramp for Swimming Pool
- Most Durable: COZIWOW Heavy Duty Portable Folding Water Ramp
- Best for Inground Pools: Paws Aboard Pool Pup Steps
Best Overall: PetSTEP Original Folding Dog Pool Ramp
Key Features:
- Nonslip rubberized walking surface
- Folds in half
- Molded ergonomic handles
- Advanced composite construction
- Can support up to 200lbs
- 70 L x 17 W x 2.5 H inches when open
- 36 L x 17 W x 5.75 H inches when folded
- Weighs 18.5 lbs
The PetSTEP Original Folding Dog Pool Ramp is one of the pet parents’ favorite accessories. This is a portable pet ramp that we can fold into two for easy storage. It has a rubberized surface that offers superior wet or dry traction and ridges that stops our pooch from slipping.
The plastic and fiberglass material makes the ramp extra durable and very easy to clean. We can use it for cars, inground pools, and any other high areas that our pooch finds hard to reach. We just wish the width of the ramp is a little wider to accommodate larger dogs.
Best for Small Dogs: PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp
Key Features:
- High-traction surface
- Folds in half, with a safety latch
- Four rubber feet
- All plastic construction
- Can support up to 150 lbs
- 62 inch L X 16 inch W X 4 inch H
- Weighs 10 lbs
If we are after one of the most economical and lightest ramps in the market, then we must not forget to add the PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp to our list of choices. It has an all-plastic construction and can be folded in half, making it easy to carry, clean, and store.
The problem with this dog pool ramp is the narrow platform. This means it can only accommodate small to medium-sized dogs. But it does come with side rails for additional support and superior traction.
Best for Puppies: LP500 Pet-Loading Platform by Great Day
Key Features:
- Gripping ridges
- Aircraft aluminum construction
- Off-white powder-coat enamel finish
- With border loading
- 14” x 20” platform
- Weighs 7 lbs
Even our pooch can easily get in and out of the water with the help of this LP500 Pet-Loading Platform by Great Day. It is made from durable but lightweight aluminum that is powder-coated for a rust-resistant finish. It is perfect for pups and smaller breeds as it is only less than two-feet long.
The overall quality of the ramp is satisfactory. Our dogs can use it in pools and boats. The only con pet parents found on this platform is that it is a bit narrow for larger dogs, and it could use better straps.
Best for Large Dogs: PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps
Key Features:
- Fabric tread covers
- Side rails
- Non-skid feet
- Comes in 2 sizes and 2 colors
- Replacement tread available
- Can support up to 150 lbs
- 24 x 16 x 19.5 inches
- Weighs 5 lbs
For dogs that are having a hard time getting in above ground pools, we can rely on PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps. This can be a great accessory for small to large-sized dogs. It only weighs 5 lbs but is quite durable considering it can support up to 150 lbs of weight.
Its non-skid feet help keep the steps stable. The side rails and fabric tread covers, on the other hand, help prevent our pooch from sliding or falling when using the steps. One will need to invest in a non-slip rug since the steps keep on slipping despite the non-slip feet.
Best for Lightweight Dogs: Skamper Dog Ramp for Swimming Pool
Key Features:
- Made from blow-molded polyethylene material
- Can support up to 200 lbs
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- 27 x 3 x 14 inches
- Weighs 4 lbs
- Available in 2 sizes
The Skamper Dog Ramp for Swimming Pool is another dog ramp that can be a perfect choice for dogs needing help getting in and out of inground pools. It is made from strong but lightweight material that is UV-resistant, box-corrugated, and eco-friendly.
It is available in two sizes and comes in a white color that won’t yellow over time. We can tie our pooch to the ramp using a leash to make sure he stays at a safe distance when playing in a larger pool. While the ramp can be adjusted to fit a suitable angle for dogs, this is not a good choice for larger and heavier dogs.
Most Durable: COZIWOW Heavy Duty Portable Folding Water Ramp
Key Features:
- High-quality plastic construction
- High-traction surface
- Raised side-rails
- Lightweight, portable, with plastic buckles for safety
- No-tool assembly
- Can support up to 200 lbs
- Weighs 9.3 lbs
- 60″x16″x5.5″
The COZIWOW Heavy Duty Portable Folding Water Ramp is decorated with a bone pattern bottom and a high-traction surface. It is constructed from high-quality plastic, making the ramp lightweight, durable, claw-friendly, and scratch or wear-resistant. The great thing about this ramp is that it can be used for many applications, including the pool, boat, car, or other hard to reach areas.
It has a sandpaper material and comes with four rubber feet, offering better stability and high-traction. It is very easy to store and comes with a security lock to prevent the ramp from opening during travels. The only con this ramp has is that the sandpaper surface can hurt our dog’s paws.
Best for Inground Pools: Paws Aboard Pool Pup Steps
Key Features:
- Durable ABS plastic construction
- Slip-proof grit strips
- Accordion design for easy storage
- Anti-slip rubber feet
- Can support up to 100 lbs
The Paws Aboard Pool Pup Steps is one strong pool stairs option for pet owners who own multiple-dogs. This can support up to 100 lbs of weight and can be adjusted according to our dog’s size and preferred application. We can invest in these steps for our dogs with limited mobility.
Since this pool stairs option can be a great option if we have multiple-dogs going with us on a pool adventure. We can adjust the settings to accommodate the needs of each dog. We just wish the material used offers a lot more traction since the fabric can be a little too slippery when used in pools.
Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Pool Ramp
Dog parents like us should consider numerous factors when making a dog pool ramp purchase, including the following.
Size
When buying a dog pool ramp, we need to consider the size of our pooch. We want him to be as comfortable as possible when using the ramp. There is no point in investing in a dog pool ramp if it is too narrow for our dog to cross.
Be sure to check the dimensions before buying a pool ramp. the product description clearly states the length and width of the ramp, making it easier for us to check if it can accommodate our pooch. Measure the biggest dog who will use the ramp to make the most out of the purchase.
Waterproof
It is crucial that we buy a dog pool ramp that is waterproof. Since we are buying a ramp for wet applications, we need to make sure water won’t stick on the surface, making the ramp slippery. Check if the ramp is coated with water-proof paint to ensure we are buying a waterproof ramp.
Foldable
We may have a pool in our own backyard. But if we are taking our pooch for a dip outside our yard, then we want a dog pool ramp that we can easily fold, store, and bring along in our car. Note that not all dog ramps can be easily folded.
Material
When it comes to the material, it pays to invest in a dog pool ramp made from durable, anti-slip, and lightweight materials. This way, we can make sure the ramp offers enough traction, will last long, is easy to store, and portable enough for long travels. But then, like all good things, not all dog ramps are created with durability, safety, and security in mind.
Some dog ramps are made from durable plastic. These usually weigh a lot less, making the ramp very easy to store and carry. Others require permanent installation, weighs a lot more, can bear the extra weight, and tends to be a lot more durable.
Capacity
All dog pool ramps can only hold a certain maximum weight capacity. We want to make sure that we get to invest in one that can support our dog’s weight. Note that some pool ramps can only accommodate smaller breeds, making it a must to pay attention to the maximum weight capacity.
Thankfully, most dog ramp manufacturers stay true to their product description. The maximum weight capacity indicated can hold the actual weight of our pooch. This is why it becomes a must that we pay attention to the maximum capacity a dog pool ramp can accommodate as well as the reviews of other parents who already tried and tested the ramp.
Ease of Assembly
Some dog pool ramps can be tricky to assemble. This will depend on the kind of ramp we will be investing in. It is always wise to buy a dog pool ramp that is foldable, easy to store, and offers easy assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog ramp and why should I buy one?
A dog ramp is an inclined platform that allows our pooch easy access to hard to reach areas. Some dog ramps can be used in multiple settings, including pools, boats, vehicles, couches, and beds. Dogs with limited mobility and are in pain can benefit from dog ramps no matter the application.
A dog ramp can be an excellent investment if we want our pooch to easily reach high areas like our couch, bed, or vehicle. He can even use one to get in an above ground pool or get in an inground pool. These offer a gentle angle that won’t hurt his achy joints, aging legs, or tiny feet.
Dog ramps make our dog’s pool experience a lot more fun. By investing one, he can get in and out of the pool by himself, eliminating the need for us to carry and support him. This puts less strain on our back while offering a smooth climbing experience for our pooch.
Are stairs or a ramp better for dogs?
Pet parents like us can choose between a ramp or stairs. Stairs-style ramps make use of steps. Flat ramps, on the other hand, offer a gentle incline for dogs with special needs.
When choosing between the two, we need to depend on our pooch’s preferences. If he has no mobility issues and no special needs, we can invest in stairs instead. This is since most dogs don’t have a problem climbing up and down the stairs.
But for puppies, short-legged dog breeds, smaller dogs, aging dogs, or dogs with mobility issues or achy joints, ramps would be a better choice. They can enjoy a better climbing experience thanks to the gentle angle of a ramp.
The easier it is for our pooch to climb up and down the ramp, the lesser impact he will feel on his joints.
How do I train my dog to use a pool ramp?
The kind of strategy we can use to train our pooch in using the pool ramp will depend on the type of ramp we are going to invest in. For instance, our pooch might feel a lot more comfortable using a stairs-type ramp if he is already used to using our stairs back home. When it comes to ramps, we need to take it slow since not all dogs will automatically feel comfortable using a dog pool ramp.
We can start by placing the pool ramp on a flat surface. Encourage our furry friend to cross the ramp with the help of his favorite treats and simple commands. We can gradually raise the angle until he is comfortable crossing the ramp without us giving him treats.
We need to make sure we are patient when introducing the ramp to our pooh. The last thing we need is to overwhelm him with the ramp. With a few tries and some practice, he will eventually get used to the ramp.
Once our pooch can use the ramp on his own, we can try attaching the ramp to the pool. He may need a few coaxing. But in time, climbing up and down the ramp would be effortless for our pooch.
What angle should I put the dog pool ramp in?
According to experts, we can use an angle between 10-30 degrees. Of course, this will still depend on many factors, including the ability of our pooch, his weight, and the length of the ramp. Some dogs can comfortably climb a 40-45 angle. However, it is advisable not to go above a 50 angle for our dog’s safety.
Conclusion
Dogs who love going out for a swim can benefit from a dog pool ramp. Stairs and flat ramps may have the same goals. But the latter offers better support for dogs with special requirements.
Dog ramps should be lightweight, durable enough to accommodate a dog’s weight, and offer enough traction. We need to invest in one that has a non-slip surface but won’t be too hard on our dog’s paws. It also pays to choose a ramp that is easy to assemble, effortless to clean, and portable enough to accommodate unplanned trips to the local pool.
Stairs can be a better option for adult dogs with no mobility issues and have no problem navigating the steps. Flat ramps, on the other hand, are a better choice if our pooch is still a puppy, has smaller legs, has trouble moving around, or is already in his senior years. In a nutshell, it will depend on his preferences and requirements.
When making a dog pool ramp purchase, we need to pay attention to the size, weight capacity, material, and ease of assembly. It needs to be stable enough, non-slip, foldable, and easy to assemble. Thankfully, numerous pool ramps for dogs are available in the market that can accommodate our canine friend’s needs and of course, our budget.
