protect joints
Practical help in everyday life: A mobile dog ramp offers these advantages
A dog ramp is suitable for both small and large dogs in order to protect the joints
© Ирина Мещерякова / Getty Images
Older, weakened and small dogs are often not (or no longer) able to jump into the trunk or onto the couch on their own. Their sluggish joints or short legs are to blame. With a suitable dog ramp or stairs, the animals are more mobile again in everyday life.
As a pet owner, you take your dog with you everywhere: for a walk, on vacation, to visit friends or even to the office (if your employer allows it). If the way there is covered by car, the animal must be transported in the trunk. But what if the dog is already old or weak and suffers from joint problems, for example? And puppies should not jump too much when they are young, so that their bones grow healthily. In this case there are two solutions: either you lift the animal into the wagon yourself, which is certainly no fun with large and heavy breeds – especially if you yourself suffer from physical disabilities. Or you can use a dog ramp or stairs that make everyday life easier for you and the animals.
Ramp vs Stairs: Which is Better?
In terms of the basic principle, dog ramps and dog stairs serve the same purpose: They should make it easier for sick, old or weak animals to get into the car or onto something higher, such as a couch or bed. But here the question arises: which model is more suitable and why? The answer is very simple: There is one ramp without steps, it can be easily walked up and down. In addition, it takes up less space in the vehicle (when folded) and can be used at any time to help get in or out of the vehicle. The disadvantage, however, is that the sloping tread can put more strain on the paws. For this reason the dog stairs an alternative for your pet. It is particularly suitable for small dog breeds or puppies that cannot or should not make large jumps.
Tips: These are the most important purchase criteria
Depending on the manufacturer, dog ramps and stairs differ from each other, especially when it comes to the materials used and integrated functions, size and weight. For this reason, you should think in advance about which criteria – in addition to the area of application – are important for your pet. This includes the following properties:
- The material
Most models are made of wood, plastic or aluminum. All materials have their advantages and disadvantages: Wood is, for example, very robust but also heavy. plastic is nice and light and easier to clean, but also less sustainable and only has a limited shelf life. aluminum is high-quality and stable, but can quickly heat up on hot days. In addition, the material is significantly more expensive. - The function
Dog ramps usually have a function. Either the model can be unfolded to erect it, or it can be telescopic function be pulled apart and thus also adjusted in length. Dog stairs, on the other hand, can either be folded up or are only available in one piece, as they are intended for living space and do not have to be stowed away. - The size
The size must also not be ignored when buying a dog ramp or dog staircase. In order for your pet to walk on it safely, the model must be wide enough. It is best to plan a little more space in case the dog starts to sway. The length has nothing to do with the size of your animal, but has a positive or negative effect on it tilt angle from: the shorter the path, the steeper the ascent. - The weight
Depending on how heavy a dog is, the ramp or stair must be able to withstand more or less weight. If you keep a small breed, such as a dachshund or a chihuahua, a maximum load of up to 40 kilograms. For large dogs, on the other hand, such as a German Shepherd or Labrador, the dog ramp or stairs should be able to lift at least 85 kilograms without any problems.
Dog ramps and dog stairs in comparison
1. Plastic dog ramp
This easy Plastic model weighs five kilograms, is collapsible and can therefore be easily stowed in the car. According to the manufacturer, the dog ramp can withstand up to 90 kilograms, making it particularly suitable for large and heavy breeds. However, to ensure easy entry and exit, the loading sill of your vehicle should not be higher than 80 centimeters. The dimensions are given here as 156 x 40 x 9 cm.
2. Aluminum dog ramp
This is significantly more expensive to purchase Aluminum car ramp from Lidl. Thanks to the integrated anti-slip tread, older or weakened dogs should find it easier to get into the trunk. The manufacturer states that it weighs 8.3 kilograms, and there is no maximum load capacity in the description. Due to the stable material, however, the model should be suitable for large and heavy breeds.
3. Foam dog stairs
This non-slip dog stairs is available with three or four steps, depending on the height of the piece of furniture. With a weight of 2.47 kilograms, the foam model is lighter than a ramp and therefore only suitable for small pets. According to the manufacturer, the dimensions are 40 centimeters wide and 57 centimeters high (three levels). The stair comes vacuum packed and will need to expand after unpacking.
4. Plastic dog stairs
At this Polypropylene model (plastic) you can choose between two different colors: black and beige. The stairs can be folded and thus easily stowed away in the apartment. According to the manufacturer, however, it should only be used on non-slip surfaces. The net weight is 2.5 kilograms. As a result, it can withstand a maximum load of just ten kilograms – i.e. very small dog breeds.
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How to get your dog used to the dog ramp
As practical as a dog ramp may be, many animals are suspicious of it at first. In order to get your pet used to the entry and exit aid, you need to be patient. Under no circumstances may your dog be forced to enter the ramp. Instead, you should give the furry friend time to get used to the support. Initially place the ramp (or stairs) in a familiar environment, for example in front of a piece of furniture such as the sofa – if the animal is normally allowed to sit on it. Let the dog sniff it and, after the adjustment period, encourage it to step onto the ramp with a few treats or a toy. Practice getting on and off until your pet feels safe. After that, you should continue to train on the car for a while before you start the first trip together.
And one last tip:
A dog ramp or dog staircase is just as suitable for decrepit or sick cats who no longer find jumping so easy.
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