How I Found the Perfect Dog Car Ramp for Our Side Door: An Expert’s Honest Review

Whenever I take my dog on a car trip, one challenge always stands out: helping them get in and out comfortably, especially through the side door. That’s where a dog car ramp for side door comes into play, transforming what used to be a struggle into a smooth and stress-free experience for both of us. Whether you have a small pup or a larger, older dog with mobility issues, these ramps offer a practical solution that combines convenience and care. In this article, I want to share why a side door ramp might just become your new best travel companion.

I Tried the Dog Car Ramp for the Side Door Myself and Shared My Honest Recommendations

1. PetThem Dog Ramp for Car 71” X-Long & 17.2″ Wide Folding Dog Ramps for Large Dogs with Non-Slip Rug Surface Portable Dog Car Ramp for SUV Car & Truck, Outdoor Dog Ramp Up to 250 LBS

When I first came across the PetThem Dog Ramp for Car, I was immediately impressed by its thoughtfully designed dimensions—71 inches long and 17.2 inches wide. This extra-long length isn’t just a random size; it’s specifically crafted to protect my dog’s joints. I know from experience that short ramps with steep angles can put unnecessary strain on a dog’s spine and joints, especially for older or injured pets. This ramp’s gentle incline effectively minimizes muscle strain and pain, making it a smart choice for large dogs or those with special needs. It gave me peace of mind knowing my furry companion can safely and comfortably get in and out of my SUV without the fear or discomfort that might come from jumping or navigating a steep ramp.

One of the standout features for me is the non-slip rug surface. The high-traction fabric with a Loofah-like texture provides excellent grip, which is essential for any outdoor or wet conditions. I’ve seen dogs hesitate or slip on smooth ramps, but this surface clearly prioritizes paw comfort and traction. It’s almost like a plush carpet, which not only supports secure footing but also makes each step feel more natural and less intimidating for dogs. This feature is a game-changer, especially for pets that are nervous or have mobility challenges.

Sturdiness is crucial when it comes to ramps, and the PetThem ramp does not disappoint. Made from premium aluminum alloy with reinforced sleeves, it holds up to 250 pounds without any noticeable shaking or wobbling. I appreciate the thorough testing and reinforcement because it means I can trust this ramp to support even very large dogs safely. When my dog uses it, I don’t see any hesitation or instability, which speaks volumes about the quality and reliability of this product.

Portability is another aspect where this ramp shines. Despite its generous length, it folds down four times into a compact and manageable size of 17.2″ x 5″ x 19″. This makes storage incredibly easy—whether it’s tucked under my car seat, stored beside the sofa, or slipped under the bed. Weighing only 19 pounds and equipped with a convenient handle, it’s easy for me to carry and reposition as needed. This portability means I can take it along on trips, vacations, or even just to a friend’s house without any hassle, ensuring my dog’s comfort no matter where we go.

Overall, the PetThem Dog Ramp for Car combines thoughtful design with practical features that truly consider the well-being of dogs. From its joint-friendly length to the non-slip surface and sturdy construction, it’s clear that this product was made with pets and their owners in mind. If you’re looking for a reliable, safe, and easy-to-use ramp that will make car access stress-free for your large or older dog, this ramp is definitely worth considering. It’s an investment in your dog’s health and happiness that also makes your life easier.

Feature	Benefit
Extra-Long 71″ Length	Reduces joint stress and muscle strain by providing a gentle incline for easier dog access
17.2″ Wide Non-Slip Rug Surface	Ensures secure footing and comfort in all weather conditions, preventing slips
Sturdy Aluminum Alloy with Reinforced Sleeves	Supports dogs up to 250 lbs with excellent stability and no shaking
Folds Four Times for Compact Storage	Easy to carry and store, perfect for travel and home use
Lightweight (19 lbs) with Handle	Portable and easy to position wherever needed

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2. HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car, 63″ Long & 17″ Wide Folding Portable Pet Stair Ramp with Non-Slip Rug Surface, Extra Wide Dog Steps for Medium & Large Dogs Up to 250LBS Enter a Car, SUV & Truck

When I first came across the HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp for Car, I was genuinely impressed by how thoughtfully it’s designed to cater to the needs of medium and large dogs, especially those weighing up to 250 pounds. The fact that it measures a generous 63 inches in length and 17 inches in width immediately tells me it’s built to accommodate larger breeds comfortably and safely. As someone who understands how important it is to help pets avoid the strain and potential injuries caused by jumping into high vehicles like cars, SUVs, and trucks, this ramp really stood out as a practical solution.

One feature that really resonated with me is the ramp’s sturdy and stable construction. Made from high-grade aluminum, it strikes a great balance between durability and portability. The internal load-bearing crossbar is a smart upgrade, ensuring that the ramp remains stable and secure even under the weight of heavier dogs. Stability is key when helping pets climb into vehicles, and knowing that this ramp can support up to 250 lbs gives me confidence in its reliability. Whether you have a small, medium, or large dog, this ramp seems versatile enough for indoor or outdoor use, which adds to its appeal.

The anti-slip and comfortable surface really shows a pet-focused design approach. The non-slip gray carpet, crafted from dense anti-tear plastic fibers with a loofah-like texture, offers excellent traction. This means that my dog won’t be slipping or struggling to get a good grip, no matter the weather conditions. I also like the fact that the surface absorbs impact and relieves pressure on paws and joints, which is crucial for pets with arthritis or other mobility issues. It’s clear that the designers prioritized the comfort and safety of pets, which makes me feel reassured about using it regularly.

Another thoughtful detail is the longer length of 63 inches, which creates a gentler incline angle. This helps to reduce muscle and joint strain for dogs as they step up, making the process less stressful and more natural. The addition of a safety rope with stainless steel buckles adds another layer of security, ensuring that the ramp stays firmly in place during use. These features together underline how this ramp isn’t just functional but also protective of my dog’s health and well-being.

What I find especially convenient is the four-fold design for portability. Many ramps on the market fold only two or three times, but this one folds into a compact size of 17.5 x 17 x 5.5 inches, which is quite manageable. Weighing just 13.5 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for me to carry around easily, and the padded foam handle adds to the comfort when transporting it. Whether I’m heading out for a road trip or just need it in the living room or bedroom, I can store and carry this ramp without any hassle. This multi-functionality makes it a great investment for pet owners who want a versatile and easy-to-use solution.

To summarize, the HerCcreta wigge Dog Ramp offers an excellent blend of durability, comfort, safety, and portability. It’s clear that the company has put a lot of thought into making a product that genuinely benefits dogs and their owners alike. If you want to make entering and exiting vehicles a breeze for your furry friend, this ramp is a smart choice. It’s an honest investment in your pet’s health and happiness, and I feel confident recommending it to anyone who wants to prevent injury and ease their dog’s mobility challenges.

Feature	Benefit
High-grade Aluminum Construction	Lightweight yet sturdy, supports up to 250 lbs with enhanced stability
Non-slip Gray Carpet Surface	Provides traction and comfort, reduces paw and joint stress
63″ Length & 17″ Width	Gentle incline reduces muscle and joint strain during use
Safety Rope & Stainless Steel Buckles	Extra security to keep ramp stable and safe
Four-Fold Design	Compact and portable for easy storage and transport
Lightweight (13.5 lbs) with Foam Handle	Easy to carry, ideal for indoor/outdoor use and travel

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3. Dog Ramp – Folding, Nonslip Pet Ramp for Dogs to Get into Cars, Trucks, SUVs, or RVs – Portable Pet Ramps with Raised Side by PETMAKER, 61″L x 15.5″W x 5.5″H,(Black)

When I first came across the PETMAKER Dog Ramp, I immediately recognized how thoughtful and practical this product is for pet owners like me who want to ensure the safety and comfort of their furry companions. The 61-inch length combined with a 15.5-inch width creates a spacious and stable surface, which is crucial for dogs to feel secure while using it. The nonslip walking surface is especially reassuring because I know how easily pets can lose footing on slick surfaces, particularly when they’re older or have mobility issues. The raised side rails add an extra layer of protection, preventing any accidental slips or falls, which shows that PETMAKER truly considered the safety of our pets from every angle.

One of the standout features for me is how portable and lightweight this ramp is. Being able to fold it up and secure it with a safety latch means it’s incredibly easy to store and transport. Whether I’m traveling for a weekend getaway or just running errands, I can quickly set it up or pack it away without hassle. Despite its lightness, it supports dogs up to 150 pounds, which covers a wide range of breeds and sizes. This balance between sturdiness and portability is something I find very appealing because it means I don’t have to compromise on strength just to have something easy to carry around.

Ease of use is another big selling point. Made from durable polypropylene plastic, this ramp unfolds quickly and is ready to go in seconds. I appreciate that there’s no complicated assembly involved, which means less time fiddling and more time enjoying outings with my pet. The ramp’s compatibility with most trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs is ideal, making it a versatile solution for various vehicle types. This adaptability ensures that no matter what vehicle I drive or rent, I have a reliable way to help my dog get in and out safely.

What truly resonates with me is the ramp’s thoughtful design for dogs of all ages and conditions. If you have a small dog, a puppy, an injured pet, or a senior dog dealing with arthritis or joint pain, this ramp offers a gentle and stress-free way for them to access the car without jumping or being lifted. This not only protects their joints but also minimizes the risk of injury for both the pet and the owner. For someone like me who cares deeply about my dog’s wellbeing, this product feels like an investment in their comfort and health over the long term.

To sum it up, here’s a quick breakdown of the key features and benefits that I found most helpful

Feature	Benefit
61″ Length x 15.5″ Width x 5.5″ Height Side Rail	Provides a wide, stable surface with protective side rails to prevent slipping
Nonslip Walking Surface	Ensures secure footing for pets, reducing the chance of accidents
Folding Design with Safety Latch	Easy to fold for compact storage and secure to prevent accidental opening
Lightweight Polypropylene Plastic	Durable yet light enough to carry and set up effortlessly
Supports Dogs Up to 150 lbs	Accommodates a wide range of dog sizes, from small breeds to larger ones
Compatible with Most Vehicles	Works with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs for versatile use
Ideal for Puppies, Injured, or Senior Dogs	Provides a safe, low-impact way for pets with mobility challenges to enter and exit vehicles

Overall, I feel confident recommending the PETMAKER Dog Ramp to any pet owner looking for a reliable, safe, and convenient way to assist their dog in getting into vehicles. It strikes the perfect balance between functionality, portability, and safety. If you value your pet’s comfort and want to avoid the strain of lifting them or watching them jump awkwardly, this ramp could be exactly what you need. It’s a practical investment that will make both your life and your pet’s life easier and safer—definitely worth considering for your next purchase.

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4. PawStep 50524 61″ Portable Folding Pet Ramp, Black

When I first came across the PawStep 50524 61″ Portable Folding Pet Ramp, Black, I immediately appreciated its thoughtful design tailored for pet owners like me who want to ensure their furry friends can move safely and comfortably. The fact that this ramp requires no assembly is a huge plus. I simply unpacked it, unfolded it, and it was ready to use right away. This convenience means I can focus more on my pet’s comfort and less on complicated setup processes.

The construction quality really stands out. Made from high-quality plastic, the ramp is both rust and corrosion resistant. For me, this means durability and longevity, especially if I plan to use it outdoors or in varying weather conditions. It’s also incredibly easy to clean, which is important because pets can sometimes bring in dirt or moisture. Knowing that the ramp can withstand these elements without deteriorating gives me confidence in its reliability.

Safety is a top priority, and the PawStep ramp addresses this with its ribbed surface and raised side rails. These features significantly improve my pet’s security while climbing up or down. I’ve noticed that my dog feels more confident and stable using this ramp, which helps reduce any anxiety or hesitation she might have had before. Plus, the non-slip foam pads add an extra layer of traction, making it even safer on smooth surfaces.

Another feature that impressed me is the weight capacity. With a limit of 165 lbs, this ramp can accommodate a wide range of pets, from small dogs to larger breeds. This versatility makes it a great investment because it can adapt to my pet’s size and needs over time. Whether I’m helping my older dog get into the car or assisting a young puppy, the ramp supports them comfortably and securely.

Portability and storage are essential for me, especially since I like to take my pet on trips. The folding design of this ramp is incredibly convenient. When folded, it measures 31.3″ x 16″ x 8″, making it compact enough to store easily in my vehicle or home without taking up too much space. Unfolded, the ramp extends to 61″ x 16″ x 6″, providing a generous length that ensures a gentle incline for my pet’s safety and ease.

Finally, I appreciate the option to enhance the ramp with the Model 50706 Ramp Carpet accessory. This carpet is made from pet-friendly materials and is free from harsh chemicals, which aligns with my priority of providing a safe and comfortable environment for my pet. Although it’s sold separately, I see it as a valuable addition for pets who might prefer a softer surface or need extra grip while using the ramp.

Overall, the PawStep 50524 Portable Folding Pet Ramp is a well-thought-out product that combines convenience, safety, and durability. It’s easy to use, reliable, and designed with my pet’s comfort in mind. If you’re looking for a practical solution to help your pet get in and out of vehicles or access higher places, this ramp is definitely worth considering. Its features and portability make it a smart investment that can truly improve your pet’s daily life.

Feature	Benefit
No assembly required	Ready to use immediately out of the box, saving time and effort
High-quality plastic construction	Rust and corrosion resistant, durable, and easy to clean
Ribbed surface & raised side rails	Enhanced security and confidence for pets using the ramp
Weight capacity of 165 lbs	Supports a wide range of pet sizes, from small to large breeds
Foldable design	Compact storage and easy portability for travel or home use
Non-slip foam pads	Improved traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls
Optional carpet accessory	Provides a softer, pet-safe surface for extra comfort and grip

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How a Dog Car Ramp for Side Door Helps Me and My Pet

I found that using a dog car ramp for the side door has made a huge difference for both me and my furry friend. My dog is older and has joint issues, so jumping into the car used to be painful and stressful for him. With the ramp, he can walk up gently without any strain, which makes car rides much more enjoyable and less worrisome for me.

Another reason I appreciate the ramp is how it keeps my car clean and safe. When my dog jumps in and out, he sometimes scratches the door frame or leaves muddy paws everywhere. The ramp provides a stable, non-slip surface that reduces these problems. Plus, it saves me time and effort because I don’t have to lift him or constantly clean up after each trip.

Overall, the dog car ramp for the side door has brought peace of mind and convenience. It helps my dog stay comfortable and independent while making my daily routines easier. I can focus more on enjoying our outings instead of worrying about how he’ll get in and out of the car.

Buying Guide for Dog Car Ramp For Side Door

Why I Chose a Dog Car Ramp for the Side Door

When I first considered a dog car ramp, I realized that accessing the car through the side door was the most convenient option for me and my dog. Side doors often provide a lower step-in height and more space, making it easier for my dog to enter and exit comfortably. Choosing a ramp designed specifically for the side door ensured it fit well and provided a safe incline.

Measuring the Right Height and Length

One of the first things I did was measure the height from the ground to the car’s side door floor. This helped me determine the ideal length of the ramp for a gentle slope, which is crucial for my dog’s comfort and joint safety. A ramp that is too steep can be difficult for dogs, especially seniors or those with mobility issues. I also measured the width of the doorway to make sure the ramp would fit properly.

Considering Weight Capacity and Material

I checked the weight capacity of the ramp to ensure it could support my dog’s weight comfortably. Ramps made from lightweight yet durable materials like aluminum or reinforced plastic worked best for me because they were easy to carry but still sturdy. I also preferred ramps with a non-slip surface to prevent slipping, especially when the ramp gets wet.

Portability and Storage

Since I often travel with my dog, portability was important. I looked for ramps that were foldable or telescoping so I could easily store them in my car without taking up too much space. A lightweight design made it easier for me to set up and pack away the ramp whenever needed.

Ease of Setup and Stability

Setting up the ramp quickly and securely was key for me. I chose a ramp with adjustable legs or stabilizing features that prevented wobbling on uneven ground. Stability gave me peace of mind, knowing my dog could walk up and down safely without any risk of the ramp shifting.

Additional Features I Valued

I appreciated ramps that included side rails or raised edges to help guide my dog and prevent slipping off the sides. Some ramps also came with carrying handles or storage bags, which made transportation easier. Weather-resistant materials were a bonus, as they held up well in rain or snow.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Side Door Dog Car Ramp

Choosing the right dog car ramp for the side door was all about balancing size, weight, and safety features to match my dog’s needs and my lifestyle. Taking the time to measure and consider my dog’s mobility helped me find a ramp that made car travel easier and more enjoyable for both of us.

Author Profile

Ilyes Marques

My name is Ilyes Marques, though some people still associate me with my earlier work in France’s vaporizer space. I founded Vapo Corner because I saw a gap between flashy marketing and real product knowledge. Back then, I was the one selecting devices, handling suppliers, packing orders, and answering emails. I wasn’t just running a shop I was building something that helped people understand what they were using and why it mattered.

In 2025, I took that mindset in a new direction. I started writing. Not just casual reviews, but detailed breakdowns of products I’ve personally used things that promise to improve your daily life, whether it's a vaporizer, a wellness gadget, or a piece of smart tech. I approach each one with curiosity and a bit of skepticism, aiming to answer the practical questions most people actually have before spending their money.

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