Helping your furry pal onto the bed shouldn’t be at the risk of your pal’s joints or your peace of mind. Dog stairs and ramps each have their own pros and cons to consider, and your choice may come down to your current living situation and your dog’s specific needs.

Stairs: Compact and Familiar

Stairs are also a fabulous choice for a more compact space. They are designed to replicate a natural stepping motion which makes it easy for most pets to use. Spreads are approximately 15 – 18 cm per step and this suits a short legged smaller breed or younger dog.

Pros:

Saves floor space

Stable, simple to use

Appears subtle next to a bed or sofa

Cons:

A set height might not be suited to all beds

More difficult for dogs with arthritis or hip problems

Ramps: Gentle and Accessible

Ramps are more gradual than stairs for better safety for senior or mobility challenged pets. A lot of ramps are foldable and adjustable, meaning you can use it with a bed, a couch or even a car.

Pros:

Reduces stress on joints

Works on several different surfaces and levels

Stores easily with foldable models

Cons:

Could use a little more floor length on the set up

Bulkier compared to stairs

Key Features to Consider

Feature What to Look For

Surface Grip Non-skid surfaces such as carpet or rubber to prevent slipping

Width & Size Wide enough for your dog’s shoulder You have on body Suit once your dog is in.

Slope & Length The longer the ramp, the less the slope, the kinder it is on your joints.

Stability Check the weight capacity and make sure it does not wobble.

Portability Folding or lightweight styles are designed for smaller homes.

Helping Your Dog Adjust

Put treats at the top and bottom for initial training purposes

Let your dog sniff a bit and have a look before leading your dog along it.

Celebrate every successful climbing adventure to help build that confidence

Final Thoughts

Stairs are a neat and practical solution if your bedroom is short on space. Ramps are usually the kinder option for an aging pet with sensitive joints. Either way, providing your dog with a safe way to get on the bed can be a healthy choice and allows everyone involved to rest easier and cuddle more often.