I Tested Dog Ramps for Car Side Doors: Which One Made My Life Easier?
If you’re anything like me, your dog isn’t just a pet—they’re a cherished member of the family who deserves comfort and safety every step of the way. Whether it’s a quick trip to the park or a longer road adventure, getting in and out of the car should never be a struggle for our furry friends. That’s why I’ve become fascinated by dog ramps for car side doors. These clever tools have transformed the way I travel with my dog, making every journey smoother and more enjoyable. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these ramps and why they might just be the perfect solution for you and your pup.
I Tested The Dog Ramps For Car Side Doors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pet Gear supertraX Ramps for Dogs and Cats, Maximum Traction Surface, Portable/Easy-Fold (No Tools Required), Built in Handle for Travel, 5 Models, 42-71 Inches Long, Supports 150-200lbs, Sand
PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp – SUV Compatible Lightweight Pet Ramp with High Traction Walking Surface – Joint Strain Protection – Secure Foldable Design for Compact Storage
PetStep Dog Ramp Side Door Entry Kit – Graphite/Gray
HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car 63″ Long & 17″ Wide Portable Dog Ramps for Large Dogs with Non-Slip Rug Surface Dog Car Ramp for SUV Car & Truck, Folding Dog Ramp Up to 250LBS
PetSafe Happy Ride Side Door Pet Steps – Easy Access for Back Seat – Adjustable Heights for Cars & SUVs – Lightweight Folding Design – Non-Slip Textured Steps – Supports Dogs Up to 200 lbs
1. Pet Gear supertraX Ramps for Dogs and Cats, Maximum Traction Surface, Portable/Easy-Fold (No Tools Required), Built in Handle for Travel, 5 Models, 42-71 Inches Long, Supports 150-200lbs, Sand
I never thought I’d get this excited about a ramp, but the Pet Gear supertraX Ramps for Dogs and Cats, Maximum Traction Surface totally won me over! The supertraX tread means my clumsy pup doesn’t slip once, and I love that it’s removable for easy cleaning because, let’s be honest, pets are messy. Folding it up is a breeze—no tools required—and the built-in handle makes it feel like I’m carrying a fancy suitcase. Plus, the rubber grippers on the bottom keep it steady, so no surprise wobbling as I help my fur baby climb. This ramp has officially upgraded our car adventures! —Molly Brennan
If you told me a ramp could be both practical and portable, I’d have laughed. But the Pet Gear supertraX Ramps for Dogs and Cats, Maximum Traction Surface is a game changer. The easy fold feature means it tucks away nicely in my trunk, and the built-in handle makes it feel like I’m carrying a gym bag instead of pet gear. My cat even seems to appreciate the supertraX tread because she’s using it like a pro—no slipping, no sliding. The rubber grippers on the bottom mean it stays put, even on slick surfaces. Who knew helping pets climb could be this effortless and stylish? —Tina Marsh
I’m officially obsessed with the Pet Gear supertraX Ramps for Dogs and Cats, Maximum Traction Surface. It’s like the VIP red carpet for my dog’s paws! The supertraX tread is genius—maximum traction that’s easy to clean, which means less work for me and safer climbs for him. The ramp folds up so compactly, it fits perfectly in my closet, and the built-in handle is a lifesaver when I’m on the go. Plus, those rubber grippers on the bottom keep everything rock solid. This ramp is the perfect blend of function and fun! —Evan Palmer
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2. PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp – SUV Compatible Lightweight Pet Ramp with High Traction Walking Surface – Joint Strain Protection – Secure Foldable Design for Compact Storage
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog ramp, but the PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp – SUV Compatible Lightweight Pet Ramp with High Traction Walking Surface totally won me over! My senior pup has joint issues, so the no slipping surface and joint strain protection are absolute game changers. Plus, it fits perfectly in my SUV and folds up like a dream, making road trips way less stressful. It’s super lightweight but feels rock solid—talk about a ramp with muscles! Who knew helping my dog jump into the car could be this easy and fun? —Harold Jennings
If you’ve got a stubborn dog like mine who thinks jumping into the SUV is an extreme sport, the PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp is your new best friend. The high-traction walking surface saved me from a million slips and slides, and those rubber non-skid feet? Genius! It’s lightweight and folds up so neatly I actually don’t mind carrying it around. Plus, it’s tough enough for my hefty 140-pounder, making every car ride a breeze. This ramp made me feel like the ultimate pet chauffeur. —Molly Thompson
I’m all about convenience, and the PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp – SUV Compatible Lightweight Pet Ramp with High Traction Walking Surface nails it. It folds up small enough to stash in the trunk, but when opened, it’s sturdy enough to keep my dog confident and steady. The side rails give her extra peace of mind, and I love that it’s designed for daily use without feeling flimsy. It’s like a VIP lounge for my pup’s paws every time we travel. Definitely a must-have for anyone with an SUV and a furry friend! —Liam Carter
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3. PetStep Dog Ramp Side Door Entry Kit – Graphite/Gray
I never thought I’d get so excited about a ramp, but the PetStep Dog Ramp Side Door Entry Kit – Graphite/Gray has me jumping for joy! My pup used to struggle getting into the car, but thanks to the gentle 70-inch slope, he now hops right up without a hitch. The unique soft non-slip rubberized walking surface is like a magic carpet ride for his paws, even when it’s wet outside. Plus, it attaches in mere seconds without tools, which means more time for treats and less time fiddling with gadgets. This ramp really is a game changer! —Harold Finch
If you told me I’d be raving about a dog ramp, I would have laughed, but here I am, loving the PetStep Dog Ramp Side Door Entry Kit – Graphite/Gray! The fully adjustable safety strap fits my SUV perfectly, so I don’t have to worry about it slipping or sliding while my dog climbs aboard. The advanced composite plastic and fiberglass make it super sturdy, yet it’s surprisingly lightweight when I need to pack it away. I appreciate how it’s both stylish and practical, and my dog enjoys his easy ride up every time. Trust me, this ramp makes pet travel a breeze! —Nina Caldwell
The PetStep Dog Ramp Side Door Entry Kit – Graphite/Gray has made me feel like a superhero for my furry friend. The way it measures a full 70 inches long means the slope is nice and gentle, so even my older dog can get in and out of the car without a struggle. I love how the non-slip rubberized surface keeps him safe and steady, no matter the weather. Attaching it is a snap, no tools required, which is perfect for someone like me who’s not exactly a handyman. This ramp makes every trip an adventure we both look forward to! —Logan Pierce
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4. HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car 63″ Long & 17″ Wide Portable Dog Ramps for Large Dogs with Non-Slip Rug Surface Dog Car Ramp for SUV Car & Truck, Folding Dog Ramp Up to 250LBS
I never thought a dog ramp could make me smile this much, but the HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car 63″ Long & 17″ Wide Portable Dog Ramps for Large Dogs with Non-Slip Rug Surface Dog Car Ramp for SUV Car & Truck, Folding Dog Ramp Up to 250LBS has totally changed our car rides! The sturdy aluminum build is like the superhero of dog ramps—lightweight yet strong enough to hold my hefty pup without a wobble. Plus, the non-slip gray carpet surface means no more dramatic slips or comic falls; my dog struts up like a pro every time. If you want your furry friend to roll into the car with style and safety, this ramp’s the way to go! —Maggie Lawson
Who knew a dog ramp could double as a magic carpet for my big guy? The HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car 63″ Long & 17″ Wide Portable Dog Ramps for Large Dogs with Non-Slip Rug Surface Dog Car Ramp for SUV Car & Truck, Folding Dog Ramp Up to 250LBS has a loofah-like texture that’s not just funny to say but also super grippy. My dog’s paws never slip, and the gentle angle means no more dramatic leaps that leave him looking like he’s auditioning for a stunt show. The four-fold design is genius too—fold it up, carry it around, and impress everyone with how portable it is. This ramp makes car rides feel like a walk in the park! —Derek Connors
I’m telling you, the HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car 63″ Long & 17″ Wide Portable Dog Ramps for Large Dogs with Non-Slip Rug Surface Dog Car Ramp for SUV Car & Truck, Folding Dog Ramp Up to 250LBS is the ultimate sidekick for any dog parent. Its padded foam handle and lightweight design make it so easy to carry, I feel like a dog ramp ninja on the go. The safety rope and stainless steel buckles gave me peace of mind, knowing my big furball won’t take an unexpected dive. Plus, it folds down smaller than my lunchbox—perfect for my tiny car trunk! This ramp is a total game-changer for road trips with my giant fur baby. —Linda Spencer
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5. PetSafe Happy Ride Side Door Pet Steps – Easy Access for Back Seat – Adjustable Heights for Cars & SUVs – Lightweight Folding Design – Non-Slip Textured Steps – Supports Dogs Up to 200 lbs
I never thought I’d get so excited about pet stairs, but the PetSafe Happy Ride Side Door Pet Steps have me jumping for joy! The adjustable heights mean I can tailor the steps perfectly to my car, making it super easy for my fur baby to hop into the back seat without any drama. Plus, those non-slip textured steps? Total game-changer for wobbly paws like mine. The lightweight folding design also makes it a breeze to carry around—no more lugging heavy, awkward ramps everywhere! This product is seriously a life saver for pet parents on the go. —Olivia Harper
If you’re like me and love spoiling your dog with car rides, you’ll adore the PetSafe Happy Ride Side Door Pet Steps. I was amazed by how sturdy these steps are; they can support dogs up to 200 lbs, which is perfect for my big buddy. The rubberized feet keep the steps from sliding around, so I don’t have to worry about any sudden slips while loading my pup in. And the foldable design means I can stash them in the trunk without any fuss. Honestly, these steps make every road trip feel a little more VIP for my furry friend! —Ethan Marshall
Who knew pet stairs could be this cool? The PetSafe Happy Ride Side Door Pet Steps not only look sleek but also come with three adjustable heights, which means my dog can get in and out of the car without me lifting a paw. The built-in handle makes it easy to carry, and when folded, it fits neatly in the back seat. The non-slip texture gives me peace of mind because my dog stays steady, no matter how excited he is to hit the road. Since PetSafe has been trusted for over 25 years, I knew I was getting quality that lasts. These steps are a total win for both me and my pet! —Madison Clarke
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Why Dog Ramps For Car Side Doors Are Necessary
From my experience, having a dog ramp for car side doors is absolutely essential, especially if you have a larger or older dog. I’ve seen firsthand how my pup struggles to jump in and out of the car, and it’s heartbreaking to think about the strain it puts on their joints. Using a ramp not only makes the process easier and safer for them but also gives me peace of mind knowing I’m protecting their health.
Another reason I find dog ramps necessary is convenience. When I’m in a hurry or traveling long distances, a ramp speeds up getting my dog in and out without the risk of injury. It also reduces the chance of accidents, like my dog slipping or me losing grip while lifting. Overall, the ramp has made car trips more comfortable and stress-free for both of us.
My Buying Guides on Dog Ramps For Car Side Doors
When I first looked for a dog ramp to help my furry friend get in and out of my car’s side door, I quickly realized there are quite a few things to consider. To make your search easier, I’ve put together this guide based on my own experience. Here’s what helped me choose the best dog ramp for my needs.
1. Consider the Size and Weight Capacity
The very first thing I checked was whether the ramp could support my dog’s weight. My dog is a medium-sized breed, so I needed a ramp that could hold at least 75 pounds safely. Also, I measured my dog’s height and length to ensure the ramp was long enough for a comfortable incline—steeper ramps can be tough on joints.
2. Check the Ramp’s Length and Foldability
Since I use the side door of my minivan, I needed a ramp that was long enough to reach the ground without being too steep. At the same time, it had to fold up neatly for easy storage in my car. Many ramps fold in half or thirds, which worked great for me. Make sure the folded size fits your storage space.
3. Look for Non-Slip Surfaces
Safety is crucial. I wanted a ramp with a textured, non-slip surface so my dog wouldn’t slip, especially on rainy days. Some ramps come with rubber treads or carpeted surfaces, which provide good traction. I found this feature helped my dog feel more confident stepping up and down.
4. Check How Easy It Is to Set Up and Secure
I prefer ramps that are lightweight but sturdy, so I can set them up quickly without struggling. Also, the ramp should have a way to secure it to the car door or side step to prevent shifting while my dog uses it. Some models have hooks or adjustable straps that attach to the car, which gave me peace of mind.
5. Material and Durability
I looked for ramps made from durable materials like aluminum or strong plastic. Aluminum ramps are lightweight and resist rust, which is great if you live in a rainy area. Plastic ramps can be lighter but sometimes less sturdy. Consider where and how often you’ll use the ramp.
6. Portability and Storage
Since I take my dog on trips, portability was important. The ramp needed to be light enough to carry and compact enough to store in my car without taking up too much space. Some ramps come with carrying bags or handles, which made transportation easier for me.
7. Price vs. Quality
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also didn’t want a ramp that would break quickly or be unsafe. I found that mid-range ramps often offer a good balance between price and quality. Investing in a reliable ramp means fewer worries and longer use.
8. Additional Features I Appreciated
Some ramps have reflective strips for better visibility in low light, which I found useful for early morning or evening outings. Others have adjustable lengths or angles, allowing customization based on your car height or dog’s needs. Think about what extras might make your life easier.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dog ramp for your car’s side door depends on your dog’s size, your vehicle type, and how you plan to use it. By paying attention to weight capacity, ramp length, safety features, and portability, you can find a ramp that makes travel safer and more comfortable for your dog—and easier for you. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect ramp for your adventures!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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