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Lifting a 70-pound senior dog into the back of an SUV is hard on your back, and jumping out of it is hard on theirs. A car ramp solves both problems, as long as it is long enough for your vehicle. This guide focuses on vehicles; for beds and couches, see our bed ramp guide and the overview of the best dog ramps.
Match the ramp to your vehicle
Measure from the ground to the surface your dog will step onto: the cargo floor of an SUV, the tailgate of a truck, or the back seat of a car. Then pick a ramp long enough to keep the slope around 18 to 25 degrees.
| Vehicle (example height) | Ramp length for about 25° | Ramp length for about 20° |
|---|---|---|
| Car back seat, side door (about 20 in) | about 47 in | about 58 in |
| Crossover / mid-size SUV cargo (about 28–30 in) | about 66–71 in | about 82–88 in |
| Large SUV or minivan cargo (about 32 in) | about 76 in | about 94 in |
| Pickup tailgate (about 36 in) | about 85 in | about 105 in |
Heights are examples only; measure your own vehicle. Lengths calculated as height ÷ sine of the angle.
Two practical points: for trucks, you will usually need the longest ramp you can find, and for side doors, short ramps work because the back seat is low.
Five car ramps worth considering
| Ramp | Length | Width | Ramp weight | Max dog weight | Surface |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping (XL) | 47–87 in | 20 in | 18 lb | 300 lb | High-traction |
| PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping (regular) | 39–72 in | — | 13 lb | 400 lb | High-traction |
| Gen7Pets Natural-Step | 72 in | 16 in | 17 lb | 250 lb | Artificial grass |
| PetSTEP Original Folding | 70 in | 17 in | 18.5 lb | 500 lb | Rubberized |
| WeatherTech PetRamp | 67 in | 15 in | 16 lb | 300 lb | Ribbed resin |
Specifications from manufacturers and retailers at the time of writing.
PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping (XL): best for trucks and tall SUVs
The extra-large version slides from 47 to 87 inches, so you can set it long for a pickup tailgate and shorter for a crossover. At 87 inches, a 36-inch tailgate works out to about 24 degrees. The regular size (39 to 72 inches, 13 lb) suits most SUVs and is easier to handle.
Gen7Pets Natural-Step: best surface for nervous dogs
Its artificial-grass top feels more natural under the paws than plastic or sandpaper, which helps dogs that are wary of ramps. It is 72 inches long, 16 inches wide, weighs about 17 lb and is rated for dogs up to 250 lb, with rubber grippers at both ends and a latch that keeps it closed when folded.
PetSTEP Original Folding: best for big dogs and bad weather
Rated for 500 lb, rust-proof and easy to hose down, the PetSTEP is the workhorse of the group. At 70 inches it suits most SUVs; on taller trucks the slope gets steep.
WeatherTech PetRamp: best compact option
Made in the USA, 67 inches long and folding to 33.5 inches, the PetRamp stores easily in a crowded cargo area. Its 15-inch width and shorter length make it better suited to lower vehicles and confident dogs.
A short ramp for the back seat
If your dog rides in the back seat, the height is often only around 20 inches, so a short folding ramp or an adjustable indoor ramp like the Alpha Paw PawRamp (40 inches, up to 24 inches high) can be enough. Make sure the top rests firmly on the seat and will not slip on leather.
What to check before you buy
- Ramp weight: you will lift it every trip. Under 15 lb is comfortable for most people.
- Top grip: a rubber lip or tether keeps the ramp from sliding off the bumper.
- Width: wider is safer for large or unsteady dogs.
- Storage size: check the folded length against your cargo area.
- Bumper protection: rubber feet avoid scratches on paint and trim.
Using a car ramp safely
- Always place the ramp on a stable, flat surface, never on loose gravel at an angle.
- Keep your dog on a leash and walk beside them, especially coming down.
- Practice at home first, with the ramp flat, then slightly raised.
- Never let your dog jump off the side halfway up: guide them all the way.
FAQ
How long does a dog ramp need to be for an SUV?
For a typical cargo floor around 28 to 30 inches, 70 inches gives roughly 24 to 25 degrees, and 85 inches or more brings it close to 20 degrees, which is better for senior dogs.
What is the best dog ramp for a pickup truck?
Tailgates are high, so you need length. A telescoping ramp that reaches 80 inches or more is usually the most practical choice.
Are dog stairs better than a ramp for a car?
Car steps can work for agile dogs and take less space, but ramps are easier for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia or back problems.
Last reviewed: November 2026. Prices and specifications change; check the retailer before you buy.