The 15 Best Dog Stairs of 2023

by Patricia Jackson

It can be heartbreaking to watch your pet struggle to get on and off the couch or bed. While you can always help it out, you will not always be around for this. A better solution would be to invest in the best dog stairs.

Dog stairs allow dogs to get to raised areas without jumping or requiring help from the owners. They are ideal for small stature dogs, puppies, elderly or injured dogs that find it laborious and even impossible to get to high areas without risking injuries from jumping.

With dog stairs in the house, you can give your pooch a more comfortable life as it can quickly get around. Here we help make it easy to choose the right ones with a review of some top options and a comprehensive buying guide.

Top Dog Stairs by Editors

7 Best Dog Stairs: Review

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs

1. Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs (Best Overall)

  • Broader & deeper stair landings
  • Rubber bottom grippers keep it in place
  • Removable, washable carpet
PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps

2. PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps (Best for the Money)

  • Great value for cash
  • Foldable for easy storage
  • Built-in safety rails
Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs

3. Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs (Best for Large Dogs)

  • Wide & tough enough for large dogs
  • Removable & washable cover
  • Easy, tool-free assembly
Cozy Pet Lightweight Pet Stairs

4. Cozy Pet Lightweight Pet Stairs (Best for Small Dogs)

  • Padded steps for delicate joints
  • DuraCore technology for a denser core
  • Convenient carry handle
Furhaven Pet Steady Paws Furniture Assist

5. Furhaven Pet Steady Paws Furniture Assist (Best for Bed)

  • 22.5-inch high for bed use
  • Plush faux fur lining
  • Convertible into a 2-step
Petmaker High-Density Foam 3 Tier Pet Steps

6. Petmaker High-Density Foam 3 Tier Pet Steps (Best Portable)

  • 1.8-pound lightweight for portability
  • High-density foam
  • Machine washable microfiber cover
Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps

7. Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps (Best Foam)

  • Premium foam for maximum durability
  • Lightweight (2.3 pounds) for portability
  • Removable, machine-washable cover

1. Best Overall: Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs

Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs
Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs
  • Weight Capacity: 150 pounds
  • Weight: 7 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 16 x 22 x 16 inches
  • Step: 2 steps

Our best overall dog stairs option is the Pet Gear Easy Step II as it is a well-built product with wide and deep enough landings, a secure build, and is comfortable enough for pets.

The stair landings have enough space to accommodate all kinds of dogs, and the surface has a cozy carpet that provides a comfortable platform for the canine. Additionally, the carpet is removable and washable for easy maintenance.

With the rubber grippers at the bottom, you should not have any issues keeping the stairs secure in place. What's more, they take little effort to set up as there are no tools required, and you can have them ready to use in under 5 minutes.

While the plastic around the edges at the top is a little slippery, there is nothing to worry about as dogs hardly ever step on it. What's more, you can always cover it with carpet or a small blanket to get peace of mind.

Pros:

  • More spacious stairs landings
  • Easy to keep secure in place
  • Simple tool-free setup
  • Quick and easy maintenance

Cons:

  • Plastic on the top edges is a little slippery

2. Best for the Money: PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps
PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps
  • Weight Capacity: 200 pounds
  • Weight: 9 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 16 x 24 x 19.5 inches
  • Step: 4 steps

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps is a 4-step collapsible dog stair with a solid wooden frame and comes at a great price despite its superior build quality to ensure you get great value for money. Also, it is super easy to set up as it does not need any assembly.

Many dog owners love the inclusion of side rails as they provide extra security for the pet when getting on and off high areas. What's more, the stairs come in an attractive modern styling to ensure they look good anywhere you place them, and they can support up to 200 pounds.

These dog stairs seem to skid a bit despite having non-skid feet, but this is an easy issue to fix by placing a rugger under them. They might also not be high enough for some bed types, but they work just fine for most beds and couches.

Pros:

  • Offers good value for cash
  • Folds for easy storage
  • No assembly needed
  • Side rails for extra security
  • Attractive modern styling

Cons:

  • Still skids a bit
  • Should be a little higher

3. Best for Large Dogs: Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs

Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs
Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs
  • Weight: 5 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 18 x 26 x 22 inches
  • Step: 4 steps, 5.5 x 6.5 inches

For those that have large dogs, the Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs is a great choice. What makes it one of the best stairs for large dogs is it accommodates the largest pooches at 18 inches wide and with a high-density foam interior.

Additionally, it has a super cozy cover for maximum dog comfort. Better yet, this cover is removable and washable for easy maintenance.

The instructions that come with this product are not detailed as they are just pictures with little wording. However, this should not be a deal-breaker given that assembling these stairs is easy and tool-free.

Pros:

  • High-density foam supports large dogs
  • Wider and deeper steps
  • Easy maintenance with removable and washable cover
  • Quick assembly with no tools needed

Cons:

  • Instructions are not very good

4. Best for Small Dogs: Cozy Pet Lightweight Pet Stairs

Cozy Pet Lightweight Pet Stairs
Cozy Pet Lightweight Pet Stairs
  • Weight Capacity: 150 pounds
  • Weight: 6 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 14.75 x 19.5 x 15 inches
  • Step: 3 steps, 5 x 6.5 inches

The Cozy Pet Stairs is our best dog stairs for small dogs as it has some adequately padded steps that are gentle enough for the delicate joints. These steps have a unique cardboard core that uses DuraCore technology to ensure it is dense enough but still lightweight.

Also, they have a removable and machine-washable cover for easier maintenance, a carry handle for easy transportation, and non-skid bottom for maximum stability.

Although the cover seems to fit a bit slack, it still does not pose a significant safety risk. It should not even move around much if you cover the steps correctly.

Pros:

  • Very ideal for small dogs
  • Denser but lightweight steps
  • Removable and machine-washable cover
  • Convenient carry handle
  • Non-skid bottom surface for stability

Cons:

  • Cover is a bit loose

5. Best for Bed: Furhaven Pet Steady Paws Furniture Assist

Furhaven Pet Steady Paws Furniture Assist
Furhaven Pet Steady Paws Furniture Assist
  • Weight: 12.8 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 15.75 x 17.7 x 22.5 inches
  • Step: 3 steps, 7.25 x 7 inches

For pet owners on the lookout for the best dog stairs for bed, the Furhaven Pet Steady Paws is perfect. At 22.5 inches tall, these stairs make it easy for pets to get on and off most bed types.

These are also cozy enough stairs for your pet as the surface has a plush faux fur. This fur is simple to clean for easy maintenance. Pet owners will love that these stairs take little effort and time to assemble without using any special tools.

Since the base is not solid, it does not seem as sturdy as others on our list, but it should be okay provided you assemble it correctly. Also, the funky smell dissipates fast once you air the stairs.

Pros:

  • Very ideal for getting into beds
  • Soft and comfortable fur cover
  • Convenient convertible design
  • Easy to clean surface
  • Quick and more effortless assembly

Cons:

  • Base is not solid
  • Smells funky when new

6. Best Portable: Petmaker High-Density Foam 3 Tier Pet Steps

Petmaker High-Density Foam 3 Tier Pet Steps
Petmaker High-Density Foam 3 Tier Pet Steps
  • Weight Capacity: 25 pounds
  • Weight: 1.8 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 15 x 16 x 12 inches
  • Step: 3 steps

At 1.8 pounds, the Petmaker High-Density 3 Tier dog stairs is the perfect choice for pet owners looking for something lightweight they can carry around easily. Besides being light, this is also a durable and comfortable product thanks to the high-density foam.

When it comes to maintenance, the removable and machine-washable cover ensures you have an easy time. What's more, this model has a non-skid back and bottom for maximum stability.

The 12-inch height is not good enough for getting pets on some beds, but it still works well for most couches. Healthy dogs can also hop onto the bed safely from the stairs as it reduces the distance considerably. The 25-pound weight capacity is low but should be enough for small breeds.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and highly portable
  • Durable and comfortable foam
  • Removable and machine washable cover
  • Stable with nonslip back and bottom

Cons:

  • Not high enough for some beds
  • Low weight capacity

7. Best Foam: Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps

Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps
Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps
  • Weight Capacity: 150 pounds
  • Weight: 2.3 pounds
  • Dimensions (W x L x H): 15 x 18 x 13.5 inches
  • Step: 3 steps, 4.5 x 6 inches

Foam pet steps like the Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps are much better than wooden or plastic ones when you want something gentler on the delicate joints of small, young, and sick dogs. Besides being gentle, the material is also durable enough as it is a premium-quality foam.

Other outstanding elements about these stairs are an anti-slip bottom for extra stability and a removable machine washable cover for easy maintenance. Additionally, these are more portable steps as they weigh just 2.3 pounds.

The 4.5 by 6 inches steps do not seem deep or wide enough for large dogs, but these are still some of the best stairs for small dogs as they have an easy time going up and down. What's more, they still support up to 150 pounds.

Pros:

  • High-quality and durable foam material
  • Lightweight and highly portable
  • Anti-slip bottom provides stability
  • More gentle on delicate joints
  • Simple maintenance with removable/washable cover

Cons:

  • Steps are very wide or deep

Other Good Recommendations

Other Good Recommendations
Other Good Recommendations

8. Best Pet Supplies Foldable Pet Steps

Best Pet Supplies Foldable Pet Steps
Best Pet Supplies Foldable Pet Steps

Best Pet Supplies Foldable Steps is all about user convenience as it comes in a foldable design that makes it more space-saving and highly portable. It is also perfect for dogs with joint issues as the mattress-grade cushioning provides effective pain relief.

Another element that makes it highly convenient is the removable and machine-washable cover for easy cleaning. Also, you never have any issues keeping it in place as the bottom has an anti-slip fabric.

Key Features

  • Space-saving foldable design
  • Mattress-grade cushioning helps relieve pain
  • Removable and machine-washable cover
  • Anti-slip bottom fabric to keep it in place

9. Furhaven Steady Paws Multi-Step Dog Stairs

Furhaven Steady Paws Multi-Step Dog Stairs
Furhaven Steady Paws Multi-Step Dog Stairs

While the plush faux fur lining draws many pet owners to this Furhaven Multi-Step Dog Stairs as it ensures maximum comfort for the dog, there is still more to it. The dog stair has a high 29.5-inch reach to ensure dogs can get on and off most beds with ease.

Besides being cozy, the surface is also easy to clean to ensure easy maintenance. When it comes to putting it up together, pet owners have an easy time thanks to the excellent directions.

Key Features

  • Cozy plush faux fur lining
  • Easy to clean surface for simple care
  • 29.5-inch high for getting into higher beds
  • Easy to put together with clear instructions

10. Pet Gear Easy Step III

Pet Gear Easy Step III
Pet Gear Easy Step III

The broader, deeper steps on the Pet Gear Easy Step III are ideal for small and large breeds. These steps also have a nice carpet tread that provides an excellent and comfortable grip for the canine and is removable for easy cleaning.

When it comes to assembling these stairs, they snap together quickly, and you never have to use any tools during assembly. Also, they have a rubber bottom gripper to ensure they remain in place securely without skidding.

Key Features

  • Broader and deeper steps accommodate all breeds
  • Removable carpet tread for easy cleaning
  • Snaps together quickly with no tools needed
  • Rubber bottom grippers help keep it in place

11. Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs

Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs
Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs

Pet Gear Easy Step II works well for small and large dogs, thanks to the broader, deeper steps. These stairs also include rubber grippers at the bottom to ensure they remain secure as the pet goes up or down.

The stairs snap together easily and will not require any tools to set up. One more that makes them a fantastic choice is they are easy to maintain since the cover is removable and washable.

Key Features

  • Easily removable and machine-washable carpet treat
  • Rubber grippers help keep bottom secure
  • Snaps together easily
  • Deeper and wider steps for all breeds

12. PetSafe CozyUp Folding Wood Pet Stairs

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Wood Pet Stairs
PetSafe CozyUp Folding Wood Pet Stairs

The higher 200-pound capacity of the PetSafe CozyUp Pet Stairs makes them ideal for larger and heavier dogs. These stairs have a sturdier wood frame with a sleeker look and a nonslip carpet for maximum safety. Also, there are some built-in rails for extra fog safety.

Since these PetSafe stairs are foldable, you should have an easier time carrying and storing them. Also, it is easy to set up since no assembly is needed.

Key Features

  • Higher weight capacity of up to 200 pounds
  • Sturdy wooden frame
  • Nonslip carpet cover
  • Folds down for easy storage
  • Built-in safety rails

13. Petmaker Folding Plastic Nonstick Pet Stairs

Petmaker Folding Plastic Nonstick Pet Stairs
Petmaker Folding Plastic Nonstick Pet Stairs

The tough and durable plastic material makes the Petmaker Folding Pet Stairs almost indestructible, and you can be confident of getting many years of service. Better still, these are folding stairs that will give you an easy time storing or carrying.

Safety is also guaranteed as these stairs have built-in rails for guiding the pet as it goes up and down. Additionally, they have an adhesive back felt step cover for better traction and a snap-lock feature to ensure steps do not collapse.

Key Features

  • Tough and durable plastic material
  • Folding design for portability and easy storage
  • Built-in side rails for added safety
  • Adhesive back felt step covers provide better traction

14. Pet Gear Easy Step IV Pet Stairs

Pet Gear Easy Step IV Pet Stairs
Pet Gear Easy Step IV Pet Stairs

Pet owners with couches and beds higher than average will love the Pet Gear Easy Step IV as it allows dogs to get up to 30.5 inches. Besides the increased reach, the stairs are well-built with a durable blow-molded frame and fabric carpet tread.

The carpet tread is removable for easy cleaning. You can be sure these stairs always stay securely in place thanks to the rubber bottom grippers. Also, assembly is quick and easy as you only need to snap it together without using any tools.

Key Features

  • Removable carpet tread
  • Rubber bottom grippers for nonslip use
  • Easy, tool-free assembly
  • Durable blow-molded plastic frame

15. Petmaker 14.5" Nonslip Foldable Pet Steps

Petmaker 14.5
Petmaker 14.5

The Petmaker 14.5" Pet Steps have a sleeker look to ensure the unit looks fantastic in any space. Besides looks, the pet steps have a nonslip surface for maximum safety for your pooch as it goes up and down.

These pet steps have a foldable design that makes them easier to store and carry. Their design and size make them suitable for all life stages. Better still, they work well both at home and for vehicle access.

Key Features

  • Nonslip surface for pet safety
  • Foldable for easy storage
  • Ideal for all life stages
  • Suitable for both home use and vehicle access

How to Buy the Best Dog Stairs

How To Buy The Best Dog Stairs
How To Buy The Best Dog Stairs

1. Your Dog

The first consideration you need to make when choosing the best dog stair is your dog, as you need something that can work specifically for what you have.

It would help if you watched out for things like your dog's age, breed, and health status. If you have a small breed, you need to make sure the steps are much smaller because while large ones might be okay for large breeds, they might be hard to use for small ones.

For the age and health status, pups or dogs with health issues like arthritis and back problems require the stairs to be super easy to use, safe, and more comfortable.

2. Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is another crucial factor to consider because what you buy needs to hold your dog's specific weight; otherwise, it can cause accidental falls and will not last long.

The good news is that manufacturers indicate the maximum weight their dog stairs can handle. For example, the Cozy Pet Stairs has a maximum weight capacity of 150 pounds, meaning it can work for small, medium, and large breeds.

3. Material

The material used on the dog stairs determines everything from its structural integrity to durability and comfort. Therefore, you should not compromise on the quality you get.

Although different manufacturers use varying materials for their dog stairs, the most common ones are wood, plastic, rubber, and foam.

Wood and plastic make great frames for the stairs as they are more rigid and hold a lot of weight. But, you make sure stairs with such structures have a proper fabric or foam cover to ensure they are still soft and comfortable enough the pooch.

4. Portability

Chances are you will need to carry and use the dog stairs in different locations, whether it is from the living room to the bedroom or even when traveling. Therefore, the model you choose should be portable enough to allow for this.

Something lightweight like the Petmaker High-Density 3 Tier is more portable as you can easily carry it around with ease. If portability is a big concern for you, always go for stairs that weigh under 10 pounds as they will give you an easy time.

Collapsible dog stairs or those that fold down to a more compact size like the PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps are also highly portable.

5. Safety

Safety is a crucial element you should never overlook when buying anything that your pet will use. Hence, as you choose dog stairs, it is vital to make sure it does not pose any safety hazards.

Some safety features to look for include non-skid bottom that ensures the stairs remain in place and a non-skid surface to minimize the pet's risk of slipping and tumbling.

Additionally, you need to make sure the stairs do not have any sharp edges that can hurt the dog. Some models also have rails to guide the dog as it goes up and down, making them even safer.

6. Ease of Cleaning

You need to clean your dog's stairs for the pet's health and keep your house neat. Hence, what you choose should be easy to clean.

Those with removable covers or carpets that are machine-washable will give you the easiest time cleaning. Smooth surfaces that are easy to wipe clean and with no hard to reach spots are also simple to maintain.

Q&A

How do I Know if My Dog Needs Stairs?

A: The easiest and most effective way of telling when your dog needs stairs is by just observing it. If the pet cannot jump on and off the couch without you helping it out or it seems to struggle when doing it, you need to get dog stairs. Additionally, if your dog has arthritis, back condition, or other health issues, it often needs stairs as jumping is painful and can worsen the problem.

How do I Teach my Dog to Use Stairs?

A: You should always start by placing the stairs near the couch or bed and leave them for a few days for the dog to get used to it. Most dogs should start using it independently as they always look for the easiest way to get on and off the high areas. If your dog does not, you can use praise and treats to encourage it to use the stairs.

What is the Main Difference between Dog Stair and Dog Ramps?

A: Stairs will include multiple steps for the dog to climb, and they are often ideal for dogs that use other stairs with no issues and those with no severe health complications. On the other hand, ramps have a diagonal surface that the dog uses to get to higher ground. Ramps are perfect for those that cannot climb stairs due to old age or ailments.

Buy on Etsy

Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps and Stairs with CertiPUR-US Certified Foam for Dogs and Cats - Walmart Link

Foldable Pet Steps or Stairs with CertiPUR-US Certified Foam for Dogs and Cats by Best - Walmart Link

PETMAKER Folding Plastic Pet Stairs Collection - Durable Indoor/Outdoor 4 Step Design - Walmart Link

PETMAKER Pet Stairs Collection - Foam Pet Steps for Small Dogs or Cats, Removable Cover - - Walmart Link

PETMAKER Pet Stairs - Foam Pet Steps for Small Dogs or Cats, 4 Step Design, Removable - Walmart Link

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps - Foldable Dog Stairs for High Beds - Dog Steps for - Walmart Link

YOFIT Doggy Steps - Non-Slip 3 Steps Pet Stairs,Holds Up to 70 lbs - Walmart Link

the Pet Gear Easy Step II - Walmart Link

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps - Walmart Link

the Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs - Walmart Link

The Cozy Pet Stairs - Walmart Link

the Furhaven Pet Steady Paws - Walmart Link

the Petmaker High-Density 3 Tier - Walmart Link

the Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps - Walmart Link

Best Pet Supplies Foldable Steps - Walmart Link

this Furhaven Multi-Step Dog Stairs - Walmart Link

the Pet Gear Easy Step III - Walmart Link

Pet Gear Easy Step II - Walmart Link

the PetSafe CozyUp Pet Stairs - Walmart Link

the Petmaker Folding Pet Stairs - Walmart Link

the Pet Gear Easy Step IV - Walmart Link

The Petmaker 14.5" Pet Steps - Walmart Link

the Cozy Pet Stairs - Walmart Link

the PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps and Stairs with CertiPUR-US Certified Foam for Dogs and Cats - eBay Link

Foldable Pet Steps or Stairs with CertiPUR-US Certified Foam for Dogs and Cats by Best - eBay Link

PETMAKER Folding Plastic Pet Stairs Collection - Durable Indoor/Outdoor 4 Step Design - eBay Link

PETMAKER Pet Stairs Collection - Foam Pet Steps for Small Dogs or Cats, Removable Cover - - eBay Link

PETMAKER Pet Stairs - Foam Pet Steps for Small Dogs or Cats, 4 Step Design, Removable - eBay Link

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps - Foldable Dog Stairs for High Beds - Dog Steps for - eBay Link

YOFIT Doggy Steps - Non-Slip 3 Steps Pet Stairs,Holds Up to 70 lbs - eBay Link

the Pet Gear Easy Step II - eBay Link

PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps - eBay Link

the Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs - eBay Link

The Cozy Pet Stairs - eBay Link

the Furhaven Pet Steady Paws - eBay Link

the Petmaker High-Density 3 Tier - eBay Link

the Best Pet Supplies Pet Steps - eBay Link

Best Pet Supplies Foldable Steps - eBay Link

this Furhaven Multi-Step Dog Stairs - eBay Link

the Pet Gear Easy Step III - eBay Link

Pet Gear Easy Step II - eBay Link

the PetSafe CozyUp Pet Stairs - eBay Link

the Petmaker Folding Pet Stairs - eBay Link

the Pet Gear Easy Step IV - eBay Link

The Petmaker 14.5" Pet Steps - eBay Link

the Cozy Pet Stairs - eBay Link

the PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps - eBay Link

Conclusion

With the best dog stairs, you have a safe and easy way for your pet to get on or off high areas like couches/beds. They are handy when you have small breeds, puppies, and dogs with health issues like back pain and arthritis.

If you are on the market for one, there are more than enough options for you on our review. From the list, the Pet Gear Easy Step II is our top overall recommendation as it is easier, safer, and more comfortable to use with broader and deeper steps.

However, if you prefer something collapsible for easy storage when not in use, the PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps is an ideal choice.

About Patricia Jackson

Patricia just simply loves pets.
When she was eight years old, her parents got her a beautiful Maine Coon as a gift; and later an affectionate Husky.
Since then, she has raised them as her children; done minor first aid, taken in strays, administered antibiotics, bottle fed them when sick, and even midwifing.
Pat received her bachelor's degree in computer science at Univercity of Califronia Davis. She really hopes to transofrm her programming skills into something that really helpful for all pets someday. For now, lets just do that through writing.

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