How to help an older dog into the car
A car is often the highest climb your dog faces. A ramp suits a dog who can walk but not jump, but it needs length: about 8 ft for a gentle slope at 30 inches. Steps suit a dog who still steps up well, and a lift harness lets you take some of their weight.
A car is often the highest climb your dog faces, and car heights vary a lot, so measure yours. When jumping in gets hard, you have three choices: a ramp, steps or lifting your dog with a harness.
The short version
| Car ramp | Car steps | Lift harness | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How your dog gets in | Walks up a slope | Climbs a few steps | You lift part of their weight |
| Good fit for | Dogs who can walk but not jump | Dogs who still step up well | Dogs who need hands-on help |
| What to check | The angle at your car's height | Step height and weight rating | Size and type (rear or full-body) |
Car ramps: length is everything
A ramp that's too short for your car will be steep. Here is how long a ramp needs to be at common heights, using our own angle bands (not veterinary advice):
| Height to climb | Gentle (18°) | Moderate (22°) | Steeper (26°) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 inches | 5.4 ft | 4.4 ft | 3.8 ft |
| 24 inches | 6.5 ft | 5.3 ft | 4.6 ft |
| 30 inches | 8.1 ft | 6.7 ft | 5.7 ft |
| 34 inches | 9.2 ft | 7.6 ft | 6.5 ft |
Measure from the ground to where your dog steps in, then use the ramp angle calculator or compare ramps at your height. Pick one with a grippy surface and a weight rating above your dog's weight. Also check the ramp's own weight, since you'll be lifting it in and out of the car.
Car steps
Steps fold smaller than most ramps and suit a dog who can still lift their legs well. Look at the height of each step, not just the overall height. Our step list shows the rise per step when the maker lists it.
Lifting with a harness
A lift harness has handles, so you can take some of your dog's weight instead of lifting them in your arms. Rear harnesses support the back legs. Full-body harnesses support the front and back. Ask your vet which type suits your dog, then compare harnesses by size.
Practice first
New gear takes getting used to. Set the ramp or steps up at home, flat or low at first, and reward your dog for walking on it before you try it at the car.
Sources
- Dog Aging Project: mobility tips and tricks for senior dogs (Kellyn McNulty, DVM; steps and ramps for cars, grip, training, support harnesses)
- Tufts Your Dog: harnesses for dogs with mobility issues (rear and full-body harnesses, handles, asking your vet)
Questions people ask
How long should a dog ramp be for an SUV?
It depends on your car's height. At 30 inches, a gentle 18° slope needs about 8 ft of ramp, and 22° needs about 6.7 ft. Measure your car and use our ramp angle calculator.
Is a ramp or steps better for getting a dog in the car?
A ramp avoids lifting each leg, which helps a dog with weak back legs. Steps fold smaller and suit a dog who still steps up well. Your vet can help you decide.
How do I get my dog used to a car ramp?
Practice at home first, with the ramp flat or low, and reward your dog for walking on it. Then try it at the car.