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10 Best Dog Stairs & Steps – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Kristin Hitchcock

By Kristin Hitchcock

Pomeranian above a dog stair in a white background

There are several reasons why your canine may need help accessing high spaces. Some dogs are simply too small to access most couches. Instead of picking them up constantly, you may decide that investing in a pair of dog stairs or steps is easier. Other dogs can’t do the physical act of jumping on the couch, as it may cause back injuries. Typically, this includes Dachshunds and Shih Tzus.

Still, other dogs may be too old to make that jump anymore. If you want them to reach their favorite sleeping spot again, you’ll have to invest in a set of doggie stairs.

No matter why your dog needs a set of these stairs, you should be able to find a suitable purchase below. We’ve reviewed 10 of the best dog stairs and steps currently on the market, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your dog.

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A Quick Comparison of Our Winners (2024)

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Zinus Easy Dog Stairs Zinus Easy Dog Stairs
  • Lightweight
  • Easy assembly
  • Machine washable cover
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Gear Easy Step II
  • Rubber grip
  • Easy to clean
  • Wide and deep landings
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Pet Gear Easy Step Dog Stairs Pet Gear Easy Step Dog Stairs
  • Carpet treads for grip
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Rubber grips to prevent slipping
  • Frisco Foldable Nonslip Dog Stairs Frisco Foldable Nonslip Dog Stairs
  • Foldable
  • Lightweight
  • Non-slip feet
  • PetSafe CozyUp Foldable Dog Stairs PetSafe CozyUp Foldable Dog Stairs
  • Lightweight
  • Non-slip feet
  • 150-pound weight capacity
  • The 10 Best Dog Stairs & Steps

    1. Zinus Easy Dog Stairs – Best Overall

    Zinus Easy Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: Medium
    Material: Foam and Polyester

    For most situations, the Zinus Easy Dog Stairs are the best option. They are perfect for giving dogs access to higher places that they wouldn’t be able to use otherwise. It is crafted from high-density foam that is comfortable on your pet’s feet but also very stable. It also makes it easier for older pets to climb, since it provides plenty of friction and leverage.

    Soft foam is also vital for older pets with joint problems. Walking on something soft is often much easier than walking on something hard for these pets. For this reason, your best bet is to choose a softer foam, like these stairs.

    Assembly and disassembly are very easy. There is a zipper that attaches the different levels together, so all you need to do is zip them all up. You can also unzip them quickly for storage purposes.

    The cover itself is machine washable and removable when it needs to be cleaned. All dogs are bound to have accidents at some point, so this feature is vital. It makes cleaning up much easier and ensures that the stairs can stand the test of time.

    These stairs are only made out of foam, so you can move them around easily as you need to. If your dog needs help getting up on multiple surfaces, you don’t necessarily need to purchase another set of stairs. Instead, just move this one as necessary.

    With all of these features in mind, these are easily the best dog stairs that you can purchase.

    Pros
    • Soft foam
    • Machine washable cover
    • Lightweight
    • Easy assembly
    Cons
    • For smaller dogs only

    2. Pet Gear Easy Step II – Best Value

    Pet Gear Easy Step II

    Breed Size: Small Breeds
    Material: Plastic

    If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, you may want to try the Pet Gear Easy Step II. These steps are relatively short and only designed for smaller breeds. However, if you don’t need anything super tall, then they are easily the best dog stairs for the money. They cost about half as much as other popular options on the market.

    These steps can be used for dogs up to 75 pounds. Therefore, while they are technically only for small breeds, you may be able to use them for bigger breeds as well. They are quite stable and made out of plastic, so they make a better option for bigger dogs than foam stairs.

    The landings are designed to be very wide and deep, which makes it easier for dogs to use them. Your canine will feel more secure with stairs set up in this manner. The carpet tread is completely removable and can be machine washed when necessary. The plastic can be washed with a wet towel and with gentle soap. You can treat it like you would treat most other plastic items.

    You’ll also find rubber grips on the bottom, which prevent the stairs from sliding. Therefore, even if your dog decides to get a running start, these stairs should stay in pretty much the same place.

    You do have to assemble the stairs when you first receive them. However, they easily snap together. No tools are required and the directions are pretty straightforward.

    Pros
    • Wide and deep landings
    • Easy to clean
    • Rubber grip
    • Easy assembly
    Cons
    • Not for dogs over 75 pounds
    • Relatively short

    3. Pet Gear Easy Step Dog Stairs – Premium Choice

    Pet Gear Easy Step Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: All
    Material: Plastic

    For those with bigger dogs, you may need to get the Pet Gear Easy Step Dog Stairs. These stairs are specifically designed for bigger dogs, especially for those that are older and don’t have the mobility they once did. The teardrop-shaped stairs have an easy incline to make the ascent easier on your pet’s joints. In fact, these stairs just have one actual step, but it is inclined for more reach.

    The carpet tread provides your pets with extra grip and helps them feel secure while using the steps. Otherwise, they could be a little slippery. Plus, this tread is completely removable and machine washable when needed.

    The bottom features a rubber grip that prevents them from sliding around as your pet uses them. They should stay in the same place all day, even if your pet does get a bit boisterous.

    These stairs are also small and quite portable, so you can take them wherever they are needed. However, they are a bit short, so they can’t reach higher places, like beds. In many cases, they are perfectly suitable for couches, though.

    Many users will like these steps’ high weight capacity of 175 pounds. This allows practically any dog to use them, but it is also one reason they are so expensive.

    Pros
    • Rubber grips to prevent slipping
    • Carpet treads for grip
    • Lightweight and portable
    • Weight capacity of 175 pounds
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Short

    4. Frisco Foldable Nonslip Dog Stairs

    Frisco Foldable Nonslip Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: Small
    Material: Plastic

    The biggest benefit of the Frisco Foldable Nonslip Dog Stairs is that they can easily fold with just the press of a button. They are the easiest stairs to store and set up in a hurry. If your dog only needs to use stairs sometimes, then these may be a great option. You can use them when you need to, and then put them away when you don’t.

    They are extremely lightweight, which allows you to move them throughout your home as necessary. They are also very tall, so they can even reach the top of most beds.

    There are non-slip pads on every step, which helps your dog’s paws get some extra grip. These pads are not removable like other options, though, and they aren’t the most comfortable. Some dogs might not like the texture on their paws.

    If you’re using them on a slick surface, you can add the nonslip feet to ensure that the steps stay in the same place. These feet can be left off if you’re using the stairs on carpet or another surface that isn’t very slippery.

    Pros
    • Foldable
    • Non-slip feet
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Pads are not removable
    • For smaller pets only

    5. PetSafe CozyUp Foldable Dog Stairs

    PetSafe CozyUp Foldable Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: All
    Material: Plastic

    The PetSafe CozyUp Foldable Dog Stairs are designed for larger dogs. They have a weight capacity of up to 150 pounds and are extremely durable, which allows just about any dog to use them without a problem. When they aren’t in use, you can fold them up and store them underneath a bed or couch. They fold easily for storage and can be set back up in a matter of minutes.

    These stairs only weigh about five pounds, which makes them fairly lightweight. You should have no problem moving these stairs around as you need to, especially because they fold as well.

    They do feature fabric covers to provide extra traction and make the stairs a bit more inviting. These covers can also be removed for cleaving.

    Like most stairs, these also include non-slip feet to prevent slipping. Even if your dog runs up or down the stairs, they shouldn’t slip out of place.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Non-slip feet
    • 150-pound weight capacity
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Not as durable as other options

    6. Range Kleen Foldable Dog Stairs

    Range Kleen Foldable Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: All
    Material: Plastic

    The main selling point of the Range Kleen Foldable Dog Stairs is that they are designed for use outside. While you could use them inside, they work best when they’re used to help your dog get in and out of the car or another high outdoor place. If you’re traveling with an older pet, these might be exactly what you need to get your dog in and out of the car effectively.

    They have a weight capacity of 300 pounds, which is more than practically any other dog stairs on this list. In fact, these stairs can hold many people without much of a problem. There is no dog that they can’t be used for.

    The bottom features non-slip feet, so they should stay stable while your dog uses them. Of course, outdoor use typically doesn’t involve putting them on a slippery surface, so this feature isn’t necessarily as important if you’re only planning on using them outside.

    These stairs are extremely flexible. They are also simply put together better than other options out there. However, they do cost more—in this case, you’re getting what you pay for.

    However, if you don’t need a set of dog stairs that can hold 300 pounds, then you may want to save your money and look elsewhere.

    Pros
    • 300-pound weight capacity
    • Durable
    • Non-slip feet
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Large

    7. Best Pet Supplies Linen-Covered Dog Stairs

    Best Pet Supplies Linen-Covered Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: Small
    Material: Foam

    Compared to other dog stairs out there, the Best Pet Supplies Linen-Covered Dog Stairs are pretty average. They come with three different steps and are specifically designed to allow your dog access to higher places. However, they only work for small breeds because they are made out of foam—not a strong material.

    With that said, this foam is extremely squishy and comfortable. It makes the stairs more inviting for your dog and helps them find some traction. However, it just isn’t a great option for larger dogs due to the high amount of give.

    These stairs are quite lightweight, so you can move them around for use throughout your home. They are not as compact as other models, but that typically isn’t a problem unless you’re planning on storing them.

    The bottom of the stairs feature a non-slip grip, which helps keep the stairs in place. You can use them on wood floors and tile without the stairs sliding every time your dog takes a step.

    You can completely remove the outer cover of the steps for washing. This cover is completely machine washable, which makes cleanup fairly straightforward.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Non-skid bottom
    • Soft foam design
    Cons
    • Not for larger dogs
    • Not very compact

    8. Frisco Collapsible Dog Stairs & Storage

    Frisco Collapsible Dog Stairs & Storage

    Breed Size: Small
    Material: Carpet

    The idea behind the Frisco Collapsible Dog Stairs & Storage is pretty straightforward. Not only are these stairs able to help your pet reach higher places, but they also work as storage. For this reason, they are a bit more practical than other options. They serve two purposes.

    With that said, their weight capacity is very low. Because the inside is hollow, they cannot hold up much weight. If you have a small dog, this isn’t much of a problem, otherwise, you should likely look elsewhere. While there isn’t an exact weight capacity listed, we expect that it is rather low.

    To store items, you simply lift the top. It’s a bit like a box. You can also collapse the stairs to store them away somewhere when they are not needed.

    There is a plush material on top of the steps that makes it a bit more comfortable for your dogs. However, they are not as non-slip as other options out there. This is something that you should keep in mind when purchasing these stairs, as they may not work for elderly pets that need a lot of grip.

    Pros
    • Works as storage as well
    • Plush on top of steps
    • Collapses for storage
    Cons
    • Low weight capacity
    • No non-slip top

    9. Frisco Bi-Fold Travel Dog Ramp

    Frisco Bi-Fold Travel Dog Ramp

    Breed Size: All
    Material: Plastic

    While the Frisco Bi-Fold Travel Dog Ramp is not technically a set of stairs, it serves the same purpose. The main point of this ramp is to help larger dogs get in and out of cars. You can fold it in half for storage in your car as you travel. Then, it sets up pretty easily for use on the go. If you have an elderly dog that likes to travel, then this ramp may be perfect.

    Of course, it is not as versatile as other options. You cannot use it indoors as it is simply too long and unwieldy. It only works on cars, in other words, which can be a bit of a problem for some users.

    The surface is grooved and non-slip allowing your dog to use it confidently and correctly. The grippy surface does a lot to prevent your canine from slipping off and injuring themselves. Plus, there are also anti-slip feet on the bottom, which prevent the bottom from moving around as your dog uses it.

    These stairs can support up to 150 pounds pretty safely.

    Pros
    • Non-slip surface
    • Grippy feet
    • 150-pound capacity
    Cons
    • Not versatile
    • Expensive

    10. Majestic Pet Villa Dog Stairs

    Majestic Pet Villa Dog Stairs

    Breed Size: All
    Material: Polyester

    The Majestic Pet Villa Dog Stairs have a very high weight capacity of 250 pounds. Therefore, they can hold up a lot more weight than other options out there. They have one of the highest weight capacities on the market, in fact. So, if you have an extremely heavy dog, this may be your only option.

    These stairs do feature a slipcover that can be pulled off and thrown into the washer when it becomes dirty. When you’re dealing with dogs, this is absolutely a necessary feature!

    It also requires no assembly and is pretty lightweight, so you can carry it around your home as necessary. Plus, the whole thing is also made in the USA.

    Pros
    • Machine-washable cover
    • Lightweight
    • Made in the USA
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Very narrow

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    Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Stairs & Steps

    When you’re selecting dog stairs for your canine, there are several different features that you need to keep in mind. Below, we’ll go over these vital factors:

    Size

    If you want to give your dog access to the couch, it is vital that the stairs you purchase can reach the top of this couch. Otherwise, they aren’t going to be very useful. Beds are usually taller than couches. Therefore, if you want your dog to access your bed with the steps, they need to be even taller.

    Of course, the size of your dog also matters. Larger dogs will need bigger stairs, while smaller dogs can handle smaller steps.

    Price

    In all likelihood, you have a budget for your dog’s steps. Most people do not have hundreds to spend on dog stairs. Luckily, most stairs are cheaper than this. You can find a decent set of steps for around $30.

    In our article, we included stairs in many different price ranges. We even included a budget item, which is great for those on a stricter budget. Therefore, you should be able to find something to fit into your budget in our review section.

    dog using stairs to get off the car
    Image By: Chewy

    Cleanability

    Most dog stairs have some sort of cover that can be removed and washed. Obviously, a machine-washable cover is far easier to clean than one that can only be hand-washed. Luckily, most stairs do have a machine-washable cover, but this isn’t always the case, so be sure to look.

    With that said, a machine-washable cover doesn’t always cut it. If the stairs are made out of foam, the mess can seep into the foam. Often, the foam itself isn’t washable and will break down quickly if you try to hand-wash it. Therefore, foam stairs are usually not as easy to clean as other materials.

    Capacity

    You need a set of stairs that can handle the weight of your dog. While size can be related to capacity, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, stairs may be bigger but made out of weaker material so they may not actually hold up as much as it seems.

    It’s vital that you check the weight capacity before making a purchase. Preferably, you want to choose stairs that can easily hold your canine—not stairs that can just barely hold them up.

    Non-Slip Surface

    You don’t want your dog slipping off the stairs and potentially getting injured. Therefore, it is essential to choose a surface that isn’t slippery so that your dog can maintain a proper grip. While most dog stairs state that they are non-slip, this isn’t always true. Different materials provide varying amounts of grip.

    Just because a carpet is used as a cover doesn’t mean that it provides enough traction to avoid accidents.

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    Conclusion

    While choosing dog stairs may seem pretty simple, there are quite a few different things that you need to keep in mind, such as the capacity, cleanability, and size of the stairs. There isn’t typically a one-size-fits-all answer for everyone, so it is vital that you consider what you really need before you choose dog stairs.

    We highly recommend the Zinus Easy Dog Stairs for small to medium-sized dogs. They are one of the few steps that truly do everything. They’re lightweight, machine-washable, and easy to assemble. However, if you’re on a budget, then the Pet Gear Easy Step II may be a better option.

    For larger dogs, Pet Gear Easy Step Dog Stairs have a 175-pound weight capacity, which is one of the biggest in the industry.


    Featured Image Credit: cynoclub, Shutterstock

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