4 DIY Outdoor Dog Ramps Over Stairs You Can Make Today (With Pictures)

A dog ramp can provide access for senior dogs and those with limited mobility and make it easier for small dogs that might struggle to climb up steep steps. The ramp needs to be secure enough that it won’t slide away from the stairs, provide enough space for the dog to get up and down, and be an appropriate size to still allow people to access the stairs themselves.

Instead of buying a dog ramp, you can construct one after examining the four DIY outdoor dog ramp plans below.

The 4 DIY Outdoor Dog Ramps Over Stairs

1. Simple DIY Outdoor Dog Ramp by easyprepper101

This simple DIY outdoor dog ramp has been designed primarily for Dachshunds. Dachshunds were bred to get into small holes and confined spaces, hence their long backs and low profile. However, they can struggle with stairs, making a ramp essential, even if you only have two or three access stairs. The ramp is removable, can be modified according to the number and elevation of steps you have, and provides a gradual incline that is easy to conquer.

2. DIY Dog Ramp for Over Outside Stairs from Pretty DYI Home

Depending on the stairs’ structure, you can build a simple ramp with a single leg or stand at the decking or wall end of the stairs. This DIY dog ramp is short and might be too steep for older, smaller dogs, but it is great for bigger dogs. It is also covered in a suitably decorated piece of old carpet, which improves the appearance and adds texture to the wooden ramp, which should help prevent your dog from slipping, even in the wet.

3. DIY Outdoor Dog Ramp from Hometalk

Another way to design a ramp to meet the constraints of your stairs is to use supporting legs. The legs sit against one of the steps, ensuring the ramp is steady and won’t break. This outdoor dog ramp sits under the door so that it can still open and close without rubbing or getting stuck. It also has a shallower incline than the last design, so it is suitable for smaller dogs and those who really struggle with mobility.

4. Inexpensive DIY Doggie Ramp by Instructables

Sometimes, space can be limited on the stairs. In particular, putting in a permanent or semi-permanent ramp isn’t practical if your outside stairs are only as wide as a doorframe. In these cases, a removable and inexpensive doggie ramp provides a feasible alternative. The ramp is lightweight so that it can be lifted and moved but stable enough to provide safe passage.

Conclusion

An outdoor dog ramp can provide access for senior dogs, those with mobility problems, or breeds like the dachshund. It’s possible to create a portable ramp that can be added or removed, as required, or something more permanent. If you don’t have a lot of space on the stairs, you can always construct a ramp that runs next to them and enables everybody to easily get up and down.

Featured Image Credit: Felix Mizioznikov, Shutterstock