← All problems

🪜 Can't get onto the bed, couch, or into the car

"she has nerve damage in her back legs and can't do the stairs" (real owner post)

What to try, in order

1. Measure the rise: the floor to the top of the bed or couch, or the ground to the car cargo floor or seat.
2. Use the slope calculator to see how long a ramp you need for a gentle angle.
3. Pick a ramp with a high-traction surface and side rails, and make sure it doesn't shift underfoot (VCA).
4. Train with treats at a low height first. Many dogs refuse a ramp they haven't practiced on.
5. For stairs at home, a carpet runner or grip tape plus a lift harness, or a baby gate if your vet says to avoid stairs (VCA).

Guides

• Dog ramps for beds & couches (with slope calculator)
• Car, SUV & truck ramps compared

Products in our directory for this problem

Sources

• VCA Animal Hospitals: Creating a Comfortable Home for Your Mobility Compromised Dog
• PetSafe: How to use your telescoping ramp