Travel and weather
Do ramps or steps help a dog get into the car?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Yes, for small dogs, senior dogs, or those with joint conditions, a ramp or set of steps reduces the repeated jumping strain that can worsen joint problems or lead to injury over time. Ramps generally suit larger dogs and higher vehicles better, while steps work well for smaller cars and dogs that are less confident walking down an angled surface.
Why jumping repeatedly adds up
Jumping into a car, especially a tall SUV or van, places significant force through a dog's front legs and spine on landing, and doing this daily over years is a recognized contributor to joint wear in breeds already prone to conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia. A single jump rarely causes a problem, but the cumulative effect across thousands of repetitions over a dog's life is where the real concern lies.
Choosing between a ramp and steps
A ramp suits larger dogs and taller vehicles well, since it spreads the climb over a gentle incline rather than a series of separate steps, and many telescoping or folding ramps pack down small enough for regular travel use. Steps work better for smaller dogs, lower vehicles, or dogs that feel less stable walking down a longer sloped ramp, giving shorter, more defined footholds instead.
Getting a dog to actually use one
Most dogs need a short training period to trust a ramp or steps, starting with treats placed partway up and working toward walking the full length confidently, rather than expecting immediate comfortable use on the first try. Choosing a model with good grip and a stable, non-wobbly base makes that training go faster and keeps a hesitant dog from associating the equipment with an unstable, scary experience.
Practicing on flat, stable ground before attaching the ramp to the actual car lets a nervous dog get comfortable with the walking motion and texture first, which usually makes the final step of connecting it to the vehicle much less daunting.
Key takeaways
- Repeated jumping into a car adds cumulative strain that can worsen joint problems over time.
- Ramps suit larger dogs and taller vehicles; steps suit smaller dogs and lower cars.
- Most dogs need gradual, treat-based training to trust and use a ramp or steps confidently.
- A stable, grippy model makes training faster and safer than a wobbly, low-traction one.