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Stairs are often the first thing a senior dog starts to struggle with. You may notice hesitation at the top, bunny-hopping with the back legs or slipping on the way down. Depending on where the stairs are, a ramp can help, or a different solution will work better.
Outdoor steps: porch, deck and back door
A few outdoor steps are where ramps work best. Measure the total height from the ground to the top step (most steps are around 7 inches high, so three steps is roughly 21 inches) and choose a ramp long enough to keep a gentle slope.
| Total height | 70-in ramp | 87-in ramp | 96-in ramp |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 in (2 steps) | about 12° | about 9° | about 8° |
| 21 in (3 steps) | about 17° | about 14° | about 13° |
| 28 in (4 steps) | about 24° | about 19° | about 17° |
Approximate angles based on a ramp laid straight over the steps.
Good options for outdoor steps
- PetSTEP Original Folding Ramp (70 in, 17 in wide, 500 lb): weatherproof, will not rust and has a soft rubberized surface that grips when wet. A strong choice for two or three steps.
- Gen7Pets Natural-Step (72 in, 250 lb): the artificial-grass surface feels natural to dogs walking in from the yard.
- PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping XL (47 to 87 in, 300 lb): the extra length helps on four steps or a high deck.
- Long aluminum ramps (around 8 feet): specialist retailers sell folding aluminum ramps around 96 inches long for higher decks.
Whatever you choose, make sure the bottom rests on firm, level ground and the top cannot slide off the step. For permanent use, some owners build a wooden ramp with a non-slip surface and side rails, which can be the most stable option for a back door used every day.
Indoor staircases: what actually helps
A full flight of indoor stairs (often 8 to 9 feet high) cannot be turned into a dog ramp with a portable product: the ramp would need to be extremely long to stay walkable. Here is what owners do instead:
- Add traction to the steps: carpet stair treads or runners stop slipping on hardwood, which is a common cause of falls.
- Use a lift harness: a harness with a handle lets you support your dog’s back end on the way up and down. See our upcoming guide to dog lift harnesses.
- Block the stairs with a gate when you are not there to help.
- Move the dog’s bed downstairs so they do not need the stairs at night.
- Carry small dogs on the stairs, supporting the chest and hindquarters together.
Signs your dog needs help with stairs
- Hesitating or refusing at the top or bottom
- Bunny-hopping (both back legs together)
- Slipping, stumbling or sitting down halfway
- Taking stairs much more slowly than before
These can be signs of arthritis, hip dysplasia or other painful conditions. A ramp or harness helps with daily life, but it is worth having your vet check the cause.
FAQ
Can you put a dog ramp over stairs?
Yes for a few outdoor steps, using a long folding or telescoping ramp. A full indoor staircase is usually too high for a portable ramp.
What is the safest slope for a dog ramp over steps?
Aim for about 18 to 25 degrees, lower for senior dogs. The longer the ramp, the gentler the slope.
Last reviewed: November 2026. Prices and specifications change; check the retailer before you buy.