easy diy dog stairs
20 DIY Dog Ramps & Steps (For Bed and Stairs)
We have a few older dogs in our home, including one with sore hips. Not to mention a Dachshund that likes to leap off the bed (which is just a little bit concerning). It was definitely time to invest in a ramp.
While we found a few pre-made solutions at the store they were quite expensive, not very sturdy, and never the right size or height.
A DIY Doggie Ramp was the solution. These are all the different ramps weve found in our search; ranging from simple and easy, to beautiful and elaborate. Theres a ramp here for everyone (and every doggo).
Also worth checking out: DIY Grass Boxes & Porch Potties
1. Easy IKEA Ramp
Well start off with something really easy and perfect if you have a smaller dog. We have a dachshund that believes she can fly. Often times shell do a full leap off the bed and we were terrified she would hurt her little legs.
This ramp is easy, budget friendly, and Dachshund approved. Oh, and it only requires one trip to IKEA.
Check out the full instructions here.
2. Beautiful Pet Steps
Going from super easy to something a little more elaborate. That being said; this project isnt terribly difficult (if youve got a little bit of building experience). Youll need a saw, some clamps, a little patience, and definitely some accurate measuring skills.
Building plan and instructions here.
3. Doggie Bed Ramp with Smart Storage
Who says a dog ramp cant also be practical?
Dont let this ramp fool you its surprisingly easy to build. You simply assemble the shelves using some premade crates, then just lean a ramp over the side (and secure it down).
HGTV Build instructions.
4. Collapsible Dog Ramp
Most bed ramps are a permanent structure. But wouldnt it be nice to transfer it from the bed to the couch when needed? Or even to be folded away so you can clean underneath.
This project requires a little bit of carpentry, but the final product is far more convenient.
Check out the full instructions here.
5. Making a Wiener Ramp
Written instructions are great, but videos really show more of the building process. So I definitely wanted to include a few build vids. Here it is: The ultimate weenie ramp. Again, some construction experience and tools are required. But Make Something walks you through the process. Also, this is a HUGE ramp. So its perfect if you have multiple dogs stampeding towards your bed.
6. Super DIY Dog Ramp
This is the exact ramp we build for our dog at home, and its glorious. We used some scrap studs, plywood, and carpet (from a renovation years ago) to build this. I borrowed a circular saw and a drill. We ended up paying $15 to build this ramp, and I couldnt be happier.
What made this the perfect ramp for us was how we could easily change the measurements to fit the size of our dogs, and the height of our bed. And our bed is incredibly tall.
Irresistible Pets Ramp Instructions
7. 3D Instructions
All these instructions are great, but this one is a little different. Its printed out like a recipe with 3d sketch ups of the ramp. Its a little more precise and professional. So this may be a little more what youre looking for when it comes to directions.
Build Instructions
8. Basic Ramp by Instructables
While this looks pretty similar to some of the other ramps on this list, I will say these build instructions are really helpful. Lots of pictures and detailed write ups make this build a breeze.
Indestructible Basic Dog Ramp Instructions
9. Epic Collapsible Pet Ramp
We looked at a collapsible pet ramp earlier, but this one takes it to the next level. Its designed to easily slide from underneath your bed. It collapses or extends in one smooth motion.
With that being said: this one is for people with building experience.
Detailed instructions here
10. Ikea Crates
I feel like weve spent most of this list covering really detailed and work heavy builds. So lets build something that just about anyone can handle. And thats a trip to IKEA.
Its literally some creates stacked up with a fabric covering. The build will take you as long as it takes to get back from the store (along with a few staples from a staple gun).
How to build crate steps
11. Outdoor / Patio Ramp
While most ramps are designed to help your pup get in and out of bed, what about those that struggle with stairs? This is great project for older dogs with old bones that need a little help.
How to build outdoor ramp
12. Beautiful Custom Ramp
I found this absolutely beautiful ramp in my search. Unfortunately, my Spanish is a little rusty. Thankfully (through the power of the internet) we can use Google Translate to get a pretty good english version. Ive included this link below.
Custom ramp instructions (Spanish)Custom ramp instructions (Google Translated to English)
13. Long Outdoor Ramp
If youve got lots of steps that need the full ramp treatment; this is the best video Ive found. Its fairly simple too (even if your steps are concrete). The tarp/vinyl covering is a clever idea to ensure your ramp stands up again the weather (and time).
14. Carpeted Outdoor ramp for Big Dogs
This ramp was specifically designed for an 80 pound Rhodesian mix that ACL surgery. Basically, shes a big girl with sore knees. Thankfully her owner used some scrap wood to make things a little easier.
DIY Dog Ramp Instructions
15. Adjustable Angle
What if you need a ramp where you can easily adjust the angle? Maybe you need the ramp to be portable and usable for various couches and beds. We have just the solution. This ingenious little ramp is perfect if you have a little pup that needs to be in tall places.
Instructions on how to make the adjustable ramp
16. Repurposed Ramp From Old Cabinet Door
If youre like me your house is constantly in between renos. Just as your finishing the kitchen youve already begun tearing up the bathroom floor. Its an unhealthy cycle. At least you can repurpose those old cabinets (or anything else solid enough) for your next mini-project (a mini-ramp), which will give you 10x the satisfaction.
Full written instructions here
17. Window Perch
My dogs self proclaimed life duty is to carefully watch the squirrels and bunnies from the front window. Also to let us know (as loudly as possible) when our Amazon packages have arrived.
You can assist them in their obligations by contributing a full time window seat. Cleverly using some IKEA boxes and shelves makes it easy to build.
Full IKEA hack build instructions
18. Window Perch
This ramp was designed for a cat, but who says cats get all the nice things? It can work just as well for a small dog (medium to large dogs might need something a little more sturdy). Either way, its a nice looking build with attention to detail, and its easy to build.
Whats even better is the detailed build instructions making it even easier to replicate.
Build instructions here.
19. Collapsible DIY Ramp
And to ramp things down (yes, I just made that pun) we have this final project. Its a simple two-piece ramp that can fold away for easy storage. It makes clever use of fishing line and gate hooks to keep it sturdy while upright. Youll have to see the full build to see what I mean.
How to build the collapsible dog ramp
20. Collapsible DIY Ramp
Finally, we have this simple and inexpensive ramp to help with all sorts of everyday tasks. Like climbing into the car, getting on the bed, or adventuring to the couch. The beauty of this project is its inexpensive, light, and portable.
Actually, it only uses 2 things a shelf rack from Home Depot, and some carpet.
How to make this super inexpensive ramp.
Also dont forget to check out our collection of DIY Indoor Pet Barriers and Dog Gates
15 DIY Pet Stairs, Ramps, & Steps You Can Build Today (With Pictures)
Pet ramps or stairs are a great way to allow an older pet easier access to different parts of your home. Some pets struggle to climb onto the bed or sofa, or into the car, and ramps and steps are the best way to help them avoid pain or even injury. Pre-made pet stairs and ramps tend to be expensive and fairly unsteady, and it can be difficult to find the right size for your needs.
Building your own pet stairs and ramps can easily solve these problems because it is inexpensive, they can be built to your exact specifications, and its a fun and easy weekend project. We scoured the internet to find the best pet stair, ramp, and step ideas for you to try out.
The 15 DIY Pet Stairs, Ramps, & Steps Plans
1. Simple DIY Wood Steps by Ana White
If you are woodworking inclined, these steps are a great permanent option. In fact, the design is so simple to make, even woodworking novices can build these steps without much trouble at all! A few 2x4s, a dozen screws, and sandpaper are all you need to make a great-looking set of steps for your pooch!
2. DIY Crate Pet Steps by Ikeahackers
If you have any wood or plastic crates lying around, they can easily be repurposed into functional pet steps. Simply stacking a few together and adding cushioning makes a great set of steps and provides valuable storage space. Plus, youll finally have a use for those crates that have been laying around!
3. Collapsible DIY Dog Ramp from Family Handyman
Most pet stairs and ramps have the added problem of storage: They are typically bulky, oddly shaped, and difficult to stow away. This collapsible dog ramp solves that issue by collapsing to a flat item, making it easy to stow away under the bed. It may involve slightly more involved carpentry with the hinges, but the reward is worth it!
4. Quick & Easy DIY Dog Ramp by Kolchak Puggle
This simple dog ramp can be built quickly and easily with items that are most likely already laying around the home. Two simple pieces of flat wood, a chain or string to act as a hinge, and grippy carpeting are all thats needed. Plus, the ramp folds flat for easy storage.
5. Compact DIY Kennel Steps by Baby to Boomer
Another step-and-kennel combination design, these pet steps are easy to build. The kennel is located directly underneath the steps to provide more space and make the steps far easier to build.
6. DIY Storage Ramp from HGTV
Need extra storage space along with a ramp for your pet? This project is a great idea, as it combines various sizes of storage and shelving with a carpeted ramp for your pet. The ramp is easy and inexpensive to build and is the perfect way to reduce clutter while allowing your beloved pet access to a cozy bed! The storage space can also double as an extra kennel space for your pet to snooze.
7. Inexpensive & Simple DIY Wooden Dog Stairs by Family Handyman
Family Handyman does a great job of walking you through everything you need to know and do for each of their projects, and this simple wooden dog stairs guide is no exception. There are no advanced features with these stairs, but theyre simple to build and get the job done.
This guide doesnt walk you through any painting or decorations, but with a simple wood finish, you can customize the final appearance however youd like to match the rest of the dcor in your home.
8. DIY Under the Bed Pet Stairs by Do It Yourself Furniture
If your dog likes to hang out in your bed but struggles to get up and down, building these collapsible stairs using the guide from Do-It-Yourself Furniture is a great idea. Not only does it provide a way for your pup to easily get on and off the bed, but when youre not using them, they fold down flat and fit right underneath the bed so they dont get in the way.
9. DIY Scrap Wood Dog Stairs by Instructables
Do you have some scrap wood hanging out in your basement, garage, or shed? If so, then this DIY dog stair guide from Instructables is for you! Its all about repurposing the wood you already have into some great dog stairs your pup can use in various settings.
Whether they need help getting in and out of bed or up and down somewhere else, these stairs are a great choice that you can build without breaking the bank.
10. Simple DIY Dog Steps by Live Laugh Rowe
Few dog steps provide an appearance as simple as these. But for elegant households that need some dog stairs, its an outstanding choice. Even better for DIY crafters since it is so simple, its much easier to build, saving you a ton of frustration during the construction and assembly process.
If you follow this guide from Live Laugh Rowe, you should be able to complete the project in just a few hours, giving your pup some new stairs to use in no time.
11. Easy Cardboard DIY Pet Stairs from Mild Mile
We have some concerns about the durability of these cardboard pet stairs, but theres no denying that the design from Mild Mile is pretty cool! Its also an inexpensive project, just dont expect these stairs to handle the weight of larger dogs.
But for small pups that need some stairs in an indoor setting, this is a fun little project you can knock out in a few hours.
12. Inexpensive DIY Doggie Ramp by Instructables
If youre looking for something other than stairs and you dont want to spend a ton, then this guide from Instructables is exactly what youre looking for. The guide converts some simple and inexpensive wire shelves into a great doggie ramp thats durable, lightweight, and reliable.
Its the perfect solution that can save you a big chunk of change and it shouldnt take you long to complete the project!
13. DIY Wood Dog Ramp by Fox and Brie
This is another DIY dog ramp option you can build in a few hours. This design uses a wooden frame with slats throughout to help your pup keep their balance and navigate the ramp. While its not the most inexpensive option out there, it works great for both indoor and outdoor settings.
14. DIY Dog Ramp with Carpet by Pretty DIY Home
If you think your pup needs a bit more traction when walking up and down the dog ramp, this DIY guide from Pretty DIY Home walks you through everything you need to know to build a dog ramp that includes some carpet for your pup.
And since you get to pick out the carpet yourself, it also lets you put a little of your own style into it! This ramp works great for indoor and outdoor applications.
15. Simple & Inexpensive DIY Dog Stairs by Build-Basic
These dog stairs from Build-Basic are an outstanding combination of simplicity and inexpensiveness. Theyre a great weekend project that even the most inexperienced woodworkers can handle. Build-Basic claims it only takes about 3 hours to make, so its an easy Saturday morning project that your pup can enjoy for years!
Conclusion
Building your own stairs, ramp, and steps for your beloved pet does not need to be expensive or complicated, and there are ideas to suit every level of DIY expertise. From simple cardboard box steps to complicated storage ramps, any of the above ideas will allow your pet access to the bed, sofa, or car, and you can add extra storage space!
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Featured Image Credit: Masarik, Shutterstock
