How to Get Pets to Use Dog Ramps

Girl with dog walking back from the lake on a dock.

There are many reasons why you might find yourself in need of a dog ramp: your dog is aging, has joint pain, is having surgery, can’t jump high enough to get in by themselves, or you physically cannot lift your dog into the car. Whatever the reason, you should be prepared to spend time getting your dog used to using a ramp comfortably. It’s not always as simple as just putting it up to your car and expecting them to walk right up. With some simple steps, and a few treats along the way, you can train them to use one in no time.

How to Train Your Dog to Use a Pet Ramp

Step 1: Start by placing the ramp flat on the ground in an area where your dog usually plays. This allows them to get used to it before having to interact with it.
Step 2: Once your dog is used to having the ramp around, you’re ready to start encouraging them to step on it. Place a treat on the ramp, and provide positive reinforcement when they place one paw on it. Follow the same process with treats and verbal positive reinforcement when the dog places two paws on the ramp, and then work up to all four paws. Make sure you give your pup plenty of breaks while they learn.
Step 3: Once they’ve mastered standing on it, encourage them to walk the length of the ramp by holding a treat in your hand and leading them down it. If your dog is having trouble with this, try placing treats along the middle of the ramp so they have to walk forward to eat them. When they reach the end, turn around and have them walk the other direction. Again, offer praise and positive reinforcement.
Step 4: Now you’re ready to start raising the end of the ramp. Start with a small incline, using boards or something sturdy under the edge of the ramp that goes on your car bumper. Using a leash, gently guide your dog up and then back down again. Use treats and positive reinforcement and never pull roughly on the leash to get them to walk.
Step 5: Slowly raise the incline as your pet masters each height until you reach the height you need to get them into your vehicle. Note: Depending on your dog, this process will take several days with many training sessions. Don’t be discouraged if your pup doesn’t get it right away. Each dog learns at their own pace.

How to Choose a Pet Ramp

To keep your pet safe and feeling secure while using the ramp, you need to make sure you choose one that has a skid resistant surface and stable feet to help prevent it from sliding around while your dog uses it. It also needs to be able to support the weight of your pet and be portable to fit in your car (because you have to be able to get your dog out at your destination). WeatherTech has two dog ramp options that check all those boxes.

Golden retriever walking down PetRamp from the back of an S U V.

PetRamp — Weighing only 16 lbs., it supports up to 300 lbs. and easily folds to store in your vehicle. It features a textured rubber surface that provides extra traction and slip resistance. Rubber feet on both ends keep it secure on the ground and the edge of your car, so your pup will feel safe using it. It also has integrated carrying handles and it’s made in America.

Golden retriever being led down EasyRamp from the back of an S U V.

EasyRamp — For larger vehicles or dogs who are more comfortable with a gentler incline, EasyRamp is the perfect solution. It has the same skid resistant surface, rubberized feet and also supports up to 300 lbs. like PetRamp. But EasyRamp features two ramps that attach to a central stool, providing an easier 20-degree rate of incline. It also breaks down into three pieces to fit inside your vehicle.

Now you’re ready to start training. Be patient and go at your pup’s pace, offering lots of encouragement along the way.

Pro tip: Don’t wait until you HAVE to use a pet ramp; get your dog used to using one now. Then if they are injured or start aging, they’ll already be comfortable using one.

The information provided on this article is for informational purposes only. The directions and suggestions are based on personal experience and research of the author and are not intended to be professional advice. Readers should use their own discretion and take appropriate precautions when attempting any activity described on this article.

How to Get Pets to Use Dog Ramps

How to Train Your Dog to Use a Pet Ramp

How to Choose a Pet Ramp

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