Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly, loyal nature and endless enthusiasm. But even the most agile Golden will eventually need a boost—whether that’s climbing into the car, joining you on the bed, or just aging gracefully with sore hips and joints. Investing in the right dog ramp is an act of love that can extend your dog’s comfort and confidence for years. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best ramps for Golden Retrievers—tested, owner-approved, and designed for real-world life.
Why Golden Retrievers Need a Special Ramp
Goldens are active, medium-to-large dogs, usually weighing between 55 and 75 pounds. While their playful energy is a joy, it also puts extra strain on joints, especially as they age. Hip dysplasia, arthritis, and ligament injuries are common. A quality ramp can prevent jumping injuries, reduce pain, and help your Golden Retriever maintain their independence whether they’re young, recovering from surgery, or entering their senior years.
What to Look for in a Dog Ramp for Goldens
- Strong Weight Capacity: Look for at least 120–200 lbs to ensure long-term safety for your Golden.
- Traction Surface: Avoid slick plastic or sandpaper-like surfaces. Rubberized, PAWGRIP, or carpet textures work best for Goldens’ paws.
- Gentle Slope: A longer ramp (60–87 inches) creates a gradual incline that’s easy on the hips.
- Width: Ramps at least 16–20 inches wide offer secure footing for medium-to-large breeds.
- Stability: Rubber feet, sturdy frames, and locking mechanisms prevent the ramp from slipping or wobbling.
- Portability: For travel, foldable or telescoping ramps are easier to store and carry.
- Easy to Clean: Removable, washable covers or surfaces make maintenance simple.
Best Overall Ramp: DoggoRamps Large Bed Ramp
Why It’s the Top Choice: This ramp is a favorite among Golden Retriever owners for its rock-solid construction, gentle incline, and elegant design. Built from solid maple hardwood, it supports up to 200 lbs, stretches to 70 inches long, and features an extra-wide (18″) walking surface. The PAWGRIP anti-slip surface and side rails ensure safety, while the ramp’s attractive finish blends into any bedroom or living room. Adjustable height makes it perfect for beds, couches, and even low porches.
- Pros: Beautiful, sturdy, very safe, gentle incline, easy for Goldens to use, made in North America.
- Cons: Higher price, heavy, not ideal for frequent moving or travel.
Best for: Goldens who love sleeping in your bed, older dogs, or anyone wanting a long-term home ramp.
Best Heavy-Duty Multi-Use Ramp: PetSTEP Folding Pet Ramp
Why It’s Worth Considering: The PetSTEP Folding Ramp is a heavy-duty champ that can handle up to 500 lbs—more than enough for even two Goldens at once. Its rubberized, non-slip surface provides excellent grip even in wet conditions. At 69 inches long and 17 inches wide, the gentle slope is easy on joints, and the ramp folds in half for car trips or storage.
- Pros: Extremely sturdy, high weight limit, great traction, folds for transport, good for indoors or outdoors.
- Cons: A bit bulky, utilitarian look (less home décor-friendly).
Best for: Multi-dog homes, Goldens who travel often, or owners who want a single ramp for car and home.
Best for Cars & SUVs: WeatherTech PetRamp
Why Golden Owners Like It: With a high-traction rubber surface and support up to 300 lbs, this ramp is lightweight, folds for easy storage, and is a breeze to use for everyday car rides. Goldens owners consistently report that their dogs feel confident on this ramp, and the wide, stable build prevents slipping.
- Pros: Easy to fold, lightweight (16 lbs), strong traction, suitable for all vehicle heights, great for travel.
- Cons: Not as long as some telescoping models, industrial appearance.
Best for: Active Goldens who ride in SUVs, trucks, or cars regularly.
Best Adjustable for Tall Vehicles: Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp
Why It’s a Smart Choice: This telescoping ramp extends from 47 to 87 inches, so you can customize the incline for any height. Made from lightweight aluminum, it supports up to 400 lbs. The high-traction surface and generous width (20″) give Goldens sure footing even on steep entries.
- Pros: Long reach, customizable length, lightweight, high weight capacity, easy to store.
- Cons: Can rattle if not locked securely, not as “homey” for indoor use.
Best for: Goldens who ride in tall SUVs, pickup trucks, or need a ramp for porch steps.
Budget-Friendly Portable Option: PetSafe Happy Ride Foldable Ramp
Why It’s Good Value: Light, foldable, and budget-friendly, this ramp is perfect for quick trips or occasional use. The high-traction walking surface works well for Goldens, and the ramp is easy to store in your trunk or closet.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, folds compact, decent traction.
- Cons: Lower weight limit, less sturdy for daily use, shorter length (so a steeper incline on tall vehicles).
Best for: Owners who need a “sometimes” ramp for cars, not for daily bed or high porch access.
Quick Comparison Table
| Ramp | Best For | Max Weight | Width | Surface | Portable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DoggoRamps Large Bed Ramp | Beds/Home | 200 lb | 18 in | PAWGRIP | No |
| PetSTEP Folding Ramp | Multi-use/Heavy-duty | 500 lb | 17 in | Rubberized | Yes |
| WeatherTech PetRamp | Cars/SUVs | 300 lb | 16 in | High-traction | Yes |
| Solvit Telescoping Ramp | Adjustable height/vehicles | 400 lb | 20 in | High-traction | Yes |
| PetSafe Foldable Ramp | Budget/Portable | 150 lb | 16 in | High-traction | Yes |
Training Your Golden Retriever to Use a Ramp
- Start with the ramp flat on the ground and let your dog sniff and explore it.
- Place treats along the ramp and encourage your dog to walk over it at their own pace.
- Gradually raise the incline and continue rewarding progress. Never rush or force your dog.
- Practice in short, positive sessions until the ramp is part of your dog’s routine.
- Praise and reassure your Golden every step of the way—confidence is key.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long should a ramp be for a Golden Retriever? For beds and couches, 60–70 inches is ideal. For cars and SUVs, ramps up to 87 inches offer the safest, gentlest climb.
- Are steps or ramps better? For Goldens, ramps are usually easier on the joints, especially for seniors or those with hip issues.
- Can these ramps be used outdoors? Absolutely! Just choose ramps with weather-resistant surfaces for outside use.
- How do I keep my ramp from slipping? Use ramps with rubber feet and a textured surface; a non-slip mat underneath also helps on tile or wood floors.
Final Thoughts
The right dog ramp is a simple way to protect your Golden Retriever’s health and happiness for the long haul. Whether you need a ramp for home, car, or travel, each of these options brings proven safety, comfort, and real owner-approved results. Remember: choose traction, strength, and a gentle angle first—your Golden will thank you every day!