The Land Rover Defender is built for adventure. It has a rugged design, a tall stance, and plenty of cargo space in the rear. While that height is perfect for loading gear and off-road confidence, it can be a challenge for your dog—especially senior dogs, short-legged breeds, or heavier pups that you don’t want to lift in and out each time. A quality dog ramp solves this problem, making it easy for your furry companion to get in and out of your Defender safely, without straining joints or risking injury.
Whether you want the official Land Rover Pet Access Ramp, or you’re looking for high-quality aftermarket options that give you extra length, width, or portability, this guide will walk you through the best dog ramps for Defenders. We’ll cover quick picks, a full buyer’s guide, detailed product reviews, a comparison table, frequently asked questions, and a clear conclusion to help you choose the right solution.
Quick Picks
- Best Official Option — Land Rover Pet Access Ramp (VPLRS0517) — Specifically designed for the Defender and other Land Rover models, with non-slip surface, aluminum side rails, and secure straps.
- Best Budget Option — WeatherTech High-Traction Foldable Ramp — Durable, lightweight, and affordable. Strong enough for large dogs, folds for easy storage, and has a high-grip walking surface.
- Best Premium Option — PetSafe Happy Ride XL Telescoping Ramp — Extra-long and extra-wide telescoping design, supports up to 300 lbs, and gives your dog the gentlest incline possible.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a Dog Ramp for a Defender
The Defender has a taller boot floor than most cars, which means your dog needs a ramp that is strong, long enough to provide a safe incline, and easy for you to set up and store. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Length and Incline: The taller the boot, the longer the ramp should be. Look for ramps between 65–87 inches to keep the incline gentle. Short ramps create steep angles that can scare or strain dogs.
- Width: Wider ramps (18–20 inches) give larger breeds more confidence, especially when entering a tall SUV like the Defender.
- Weight Capacity: Always check the maximum supported weight. A ramp rated for at least 200–300 lbs ensures safety, even for heavy breeds or rambunctious dogs.
- Surface Traction: Rubberized surfaces, carpet, or textured treads prevent slipping, even when wet from rain, mud, or water adventures.
- Material & Durability: Aluminum, composite, or reinforced plastic ramps withstand outdoor conditions and heavy use. Foam or lightweight ramps are better suited for smaller dogs indoors.
- Storage & Portability: Folding or telescoping ramps save space in your Defender’s cargo area. Compact storage is key if you also carry camping gear, luggage, or tools.
- Attachment or Security Features: Some ramps include straps, hooks, or rubber feet to secure the ramp against slipping while in use.
Detailed Product Reviews
1) Land Rover Pet Access Ramp (VPLRS0517)
- Who it’s for: Defender owners who want a ramp made specifically for their vehicle, with Land Rover’s design quality and secure fit.
- Key Benefits:
- Designed to integrate with Land Rover load space
- Non-slip rubber surface with raised side panels
- Folds neatly to store in the Defender’s cargo area
- Aluminum and plastic construction for strength and light weight
- Pros: Official accessory, tailored fit, reliable build, stylish design consistent with Defender aesthetics.
- Cons: More expensive than aftermarket options, supports up to ~85 kg (187 lbs), which may not match some heavy-duty aftermarket ramps.
- Final Verdict: Perfect choice for Defender purists who want a seamless accessory that looks and feels OEM. Built tough, looks great, and folds for convenience.
2) WeatherTech High-Traction Foldable Ramp
- Who it’s for: Owners who want a durable, affordable, and practical ramp for medium-to-large dogs.
- Key Benefits:
- Skid-resistant rubber surface for wet paws
- Folds down for compact storage
- Lightweight yet strong, rated for up to 300 lbs
- 67″ length provides a manageable incline for SUV heights
- Pros: Affordable, portable, strong, grippy in all weather conditions.
- Cons: Slightly shorter than telescoping ramps, meaning the incline may be steeper on lifted Defenders.
- Final Verdict: A rugged aftermarket option that matches Defender toughness. Great for most breeds and easy to store on long trips.
3) PetSafe Happy Ride XL Telescoping Ramp
- Who it’s for: Large dogs or senior dogs who need the gentlest possible incline to get into a tall Defender.
- Key Benefits:
- Telescopes from 47″ to 87″ long
- Extra-wide 20″ walking surface for confidence
- Supports up to 300 lbs with aluminum construction
- Non-slip textured surface with rubber feet for stability
- Pros: Adjustable length, wide, safe, and strong enough for giant breeds.
- Cons: Pricier than folding ramps, heavier at around 18 lbs.
- Final Verdict: The premium choice for Defender owners with big dogs or older pups who need the easiest climb possible. Perfect for tall cargo areas.
4) Gen7Pets Natural Step Ramp
- Who it’s for: Dogs that need extra grip underfoot and owners who prefer a natural-feeling walking surface.
- Key Benefits:
- 72″ long with folding design
- Artificial turf surface mimics grass for traction
- Supports up to 250 lbs
- Pros: Great for nervous dogs, good length, sturdy build.
- Cons: Turf may wear down over time, slightly bulkier to store.
- Final Verdict: Excellent option for older or nervous dogs that dislike plastic or rubber surfaces.
5) Great Day Load-A-Pup Platform
- Who it’s for: Defender owners who take their dogs swimming, fishing, or boating and need a ramp that works with water as well.
- Key Benefits:
- Aluminum platform attaches to ladders or boat decks
- Non-slip surface designed for wet paws
- Supports up to 200 lbs
- Pros: Perfect for water dogs, doubles for boats and docks.
- Cons: Not designed specifically for SUV boarding.
- Final Verdict: Best specialized ramp for adventure-ready Defender owners who take their dogs from land to water.
Comparison Table
| Ramp | Key Features | Max Load | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Land Rover Pet Access Ramp | OEM fit, folding, rubberized surface | ~85 kg (187 lbs) | Defender owners wanting official accessories |
| WeatherTech High-Traction Ramp | 67″ folding, skid-resistant surface | 300 lbs | Budget-friendly, rugged everyday use |
| PetSafe XL Telescoping Ramp | 47–87″ adjustable, extra wide | 300 lbs | Large dogs, senior dogs, tall boot access |
| Gen7Pets Natural Step | 72″ folding, turf walking surface | 250 lbs | Nervous or senior dogs needing traction |
| Great Day Load-A-Pup | Aluminum platform, non-slip, attaches to ladders | 200 lbs | Dogs boarding from water adventures |
FAQ
- Do I really need a dog ramp for my Defender?
If your dog is small, senior, heavy, or prone to joint issues, yes. The Defender’s boot is taller than regular cars, so a ramp reduces strain and prevents injury. - What ramp length is ideal?
Look for ramps 70–87″ long for tall SUVs like the Defender. Shorter ramps will be too steep. - Can I use a car ramp indoors too?
Yes—many folding ramps double as indoor furniture ramps if needed. - What surface is safest?
Rubber or carpet surfaces offer the best traction. Turf ramps are good for dogs that dislike synthetic surfaces. - How do I train my dog to use a ramp?
Place the ramp flat on the ground first, encourage with treats, then gradually increase the incline until your dog feels confident walking into the Defender.
Conclusion
The Land Rover Defender deserves a ramp that’s just as strong and capable as the vehicle itself. If you want an OEM accessory that matches your Defender perfectly, the Land Rover Pet Access Ramp is the clear choice. For a balance of affordability and ruggedness, the WeatherTech High-Traction Ramp gives you a folding, grippy surface that works in all weather conditions. If your dog is large, elderly, or needs a very gentle slope, the PetSafe XL Telescoping Ramp is unbeatable in length, width, and stability.
No matter which you choose, a ramp is an investment in your dog’s health and safety. With the right ramp, your Defender becomes more than just your adventure vehicle—it becomes your dog’s gateway to every new journey.