Getting your dog into the back seat of a car isn’t always simple. Small breeds can struggle with the jump, while senior dogs and large breeds with joint pain often find it painful or unsafe. A good dog ramp for the back seat solves this problem by giving your pup a safe, steady path in and out of your car. Below, we’ll look at the best ramps designed for back seat access, along with a buyer’s guide, reviews, and FAQs to help you choose the right one.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall — PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Dog Car Ramp XL — Buy on Amazon
Extra-wide, adjustable, and stable—perfect for back seat and SUV entry. - Best Budget — PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Car Ramp — Buy on Amazon
Lightweight and affordable option that folds down when not in use. - Best Premium — WeatherTech High-Traction Foldable Pet Ramp — Buy on Amazon
Heavy-duty, high-traction design ideal for frequent travelers and higher vehicles.
Buyer’s Guide
Choosing a ramp for the back seat of your car requires a few special considerations:
- Ramp Length: Cars often have lower entry points than trucks, but longer ramps provide a gentler incline for senior or arthritic dogs.
- Width: Back seats may have narrower entry angles, so wider ramps offer more security for hesitant pups.
- Surface Grip: Non-slip surfaces like rubber, carpet, or textured tread help paws stay steady.
- Portability: Folding or telescoping designs make it easy to store the ramp in your trunk or back seat.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the ramp supports your dog’s weight, especially for large breeds.
Detailed Product Reviews
1) PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping Dog Car Ramp XL — View on Amazon
- Who it’s for: Dog owners who want an adjustable, sturdy ramp for frequent back seat use.
- Key Benefits:
- Telescopes from 47″ to 87″ for flexible use
- Extra-wide (20″) surface for safe footing
- Supports dogs up to 300 lbs
- Pros: Adjustable length, very stable, perfect for large dogs.
- Cons: Heavier than folding ramps; higher price point.
- Final Verdict: An outstanding choice for the back seat—gentle incline and sturdy design. Check Price
2) PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Dog Ramp — View on Amazon
- Who it’s for: Pet parents looking for a simple, budget-friendly ramp for smaller or medium dogs.
- Key Benefits:
- 62″ length with high-traction surface
- Weighs only about 10 lbs
- Supports pets up to 150 lbs
- Pros: Lightweight, affordable, easy to move and store.
- Cons: Shorter ramp can be steep for taller vehicles.
- Final Verdict: A solid, budget option for everyday use. Check Price
3) WeatherTech High-Traction Foldable Pet Ramp — View on Amazon
- Who it’s for: Owners who want a heavy-duty ramp built for long-term use.
- Key Benefits:
- 67″ length with textured, high-traction surface
- Durable build supports up to 300 lbs
- Folds compact for easy transport
- Pros: Extremely sturdy, excellent grip, long-lasting build.
- Cons: Bulkier than telescoping ramps; more expensive.
- Final Verdict: Perfect for dogs that need extra traction and stability when entering the back seat. Check Price
4) Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp — View on Amazon
- Who it’s for: Dogs with arthritis or mobility issues that need a softer surface under their paws.
- Key Benefits:
- Artificial turf walking surface for extra paw comfort
- 72″ length with folding design
- Supports up to 250 lbs
- Pros: Excellent traction, folds easily, comfortable for arthritic dogs.
- Cons: Heavier than some ramps; turf may wear over time.
- Final Verdict: A traction-friendly option for back seat entry. Check Price
5) Doggo Ramps Car Ramp — View on Amazon
- Who it’s for: Small to medium dogs needing adjustable access to cars or couches.
- Key Benefits:
- Adjustable incline for different vehicles
- Carpeted surface with side rails for safety
- Sturdy wood construction
- Pros: Adjustable, side rails for extra safety, stylish look.
- Cons: Not designed for very large or heavy dogs; heavier than aluminum ramps.
- Final Verdict: A safe and attractive ramp for smaller dogs that ride in the back seat. Check Price
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Capacity | Price & Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping XL | Adjustable length, extra wide | 300 lbs | View/Buy |
| PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Ramp | Lightweight, folds in half | 150 lbs | View/Buy |
| WeatherTech High-Traction Ramp | Heavy-duty, folds compact | 300 lbs | View/Buy |
| Gen7Pets Natural Step | Turf surface, folding | 250 lbs | View/Buy |
| Doggo Ramps Car Ramp | Adjustable, carpet surface, side rails | Small/medium dogs | View/Buy |
FAQ
- Do I need a different ramp for the back seat than for the cargo area?
Sometimes, yes. Back seat entry often has a narrower angle, so a wider ramp with strong traction helps dogs feel secure. - What length ramp is best for a car back seat?
A ramp around 60–72″ works well for cars, while taller SUVs may require ramps up to 87″ for a gentle slope. - How do I keep the ramp stable?
Look for ramps with rubber feet and stabilizing bars. Always ensure the ramp is fully seated on the car’s entry lip. - Are ramps safe for arthritic or senior dogs?
Yes. A ramp reduces jumping impact, which is critical for dogs with arthritis or hip issues. - Can I store the ramp in my car?
Folding and telescoping ramps are designed to fit easily in your trunk or back seat when not in use.
Conclusion
The back seat should be an easy and safe spot for your dog to access. For versatility and stability, the PetSafe Happy Ride Telescoping XL is the top choice. If you need something lightweight and budget-friendly, the PetSafe Folding Ramp is a reliable option. And for heavy-duty durability, the WeatherTech High-Traction Ramp delivers maximum stability. With the right ramp, your dog can ride comfortably and securely—making every car trip a breeze.