Playing in the water with my buddy is one of our favorite hobbies. Spending time in your pool with your dog is an excellent activity to cool off, have fun, and exercise together.
However, swimming can be dangerous for him if you don’t take any precautions. That’s why safety gear such as dog life jackets and ramps for pools are so important!
As we all love our four-legged companions, it’s essential to keep them out of harm’s way. According to PetPlace.com, there are around 5,000 pets drown in backyard pools each year.
To ensure his safety around your swimming pool, investing in the best dog ramp is a no brainer!
Dog Pool Ramps: | WAG Boarding Steps | Scamper Escape Ramp | Load-A-Pup Platform |
| Image: |      |      |     |
Price Range: | $$$$$ | $ | $$$ |
Best For: | Safe & Convenient Design | Budget-Friendly Alternative | Quality & Large Breeds |
Even if most breeds are good natural swimmers, it’s not accurate for all dogs. Any source of water can be potentially dangerous for them. Moreover, your companion won’t necessarily be able to get in and out of the water only because he knows how to swim.
Therefore, I’ve done some research to help you select the right dog pool ramp for your needs!
In this article, I want to help you find an accessory that will allow your dog to enter and exit the water without assistance. During my research, I’ve found several ladders of different types to provide him with easy and safe access to your swimming pool!
That’s why I would like to share with you my recommendations and all the information you should know about dog pool ramps. After your reading, you will have the right gear at your disposal to enjoy swimming with your buddy as safely as possible!
Best Dog Ramps, Steps & Ladders For Pools!
To be honest, there’s not a large variety of choices for this dog pool accessory. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean you should opt for the first pet ramp or ladder you find.
On the contrary, I think it’s even more important to analyze each product available to find the perfect product for your dog!
To save you time, money, and effort, I’ve done all the research and analysis in my spare time. Thus, let me share with you the best options I’ve found out there!
Best Overall Dog Pool Ramp! → WaterDog Adventure Dog Ladder For Swimming Pools
Price: $$$$$
Quality: *****
Capacity: ****
Design: *****
Safety: *****
This dog pool ladder has 6 steps to let your four-legged companion get in and out of the water easily, safely, and efficiently.
Made from sturdy and durable materials, this pool accessory is built to last. The stairs design with an anti-slip surface provides a safe and steady footing to your companion!
The WAG Dog Ramp doesn’t touch the sides or the bottom of the pool to avoid damaging the liner. With an excellent capacity of 130 pounds, the steps can support most dog breeds.
Moreover, this versatile equipment works well on both above-ground and in-ground swimming pools. Overall, it’s the best option I’ve found, even if it’s not technically a dog ramp!
Best Dog Pool Ramp For:
- Any Size Of Breeds. (Under 130 lbs)
- Easy & Safe Access To The Water.
- Durability & Solidity.
Pros.
- No Damage To Your Pool Because The Ramp Doesn’t Touch The Bottom or Sidewalls.
- Can Be Flip Over When Your Dog Is Done Swimming.
- Hold Up To 130 Pounds To Support Most Dog Breeds.
- Solid, Stable & Large Steps For Safe Climbing In & Out Of The Pool.
- Easily Removable For Storage & Transportation.
- Slip-Resistant Surface For Steady Footing Even If It’s Wet.
- Made From High-Quality & Durable Materials.
- Great Design For Deep Swimming Pools.
Cons.
- Expensive.
- Relatively Heavy.
Product Details.
Dimensions: 40 x 16 x 6 inches. (Package)
Weight: Around 20 Pounds.
Angle Of The Ladder: 45 Degrees.
Step Height: 4 inches Between Each Step.
Capacity: Up To 130 Pounds.
Color: Black Framework With Yellow Steps For High Visibility.
Video:
My Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Best Exit Pool Ramp For Dogs! → KHTS6310 Dog Pool Exit Ramp
Check Out The Version For Medium To Large Breeds!
Price: $$$$
Quality: ****
Capacity: ***
Design: ****
Safety: ****
If you need to bend over and carry your dog every time he wants to get out of the pool, here’s the perfect product for you. This simple exit ramp is durable, easy to use, and very effective.
There are weight bags to create a counterbalance and avoid any damage to your deck. Lightweight, strong, and stable, it’s an excellent pool accessory for dog owners. This piece of equipment is also foldable for compact storage and easy transportation.
To sum up, it’s an interesting option that’s simple and easy to use, but it’s quite pricey for the level of quality. However, I think this pool ramp is totally worth the safety it can provide to your dog!
The Original Dog Pool Exit Ramp only supports small to medium dogs up to 65 lbs. Fortunately, there’s another version that’s suitable for large breeds up to 100 lbs!
Best Dog Pool Ramp For:
- Small To Medium Breeds.
- Compact Storage & Easy Transportation.
- Simplicity & Ease Of Use.
- In-Ground Swimming Pools.
Pros.
- Waterproof & Non-Skid Surface For Optimal Traction.
- Great Stability With The Weight Bags For Counterbalance & Pool Coping Gripping.
- Simple Design That’s Extremely Easy To Set Up & Use.
- Made From Lightweight, But Strong Materials.
- Easy To Fold Up For Storage Or Transportation.
- Optimal Colors For Your Dog’s Visibility.
- Excellent Customer Service Provided By The Company.
Cons.
- Expensive.
- Not The Best Quality.
- Only Suitable For Small Dogs Under 65 lbs or 100 lbs For The Larger Version.
- Not Fixed On Something For Optimal Safety.
Product Details.
- Extend 2 Feet On The Deck.
- Extend 2 Feet Into The Pool.
- The Ramp Is One Foot Wide.
Dimensions: 36 x 16 x 6 inches. (Package)
Materials: PVC Framework, Durable Plastic Sheets, Stainless Steel Screws, Rubber, Etc.
Capacity: Up To 65 lbs.
Color: Blue With Bright Yellow Stripes.
My Overall Rating: 3.6/5
Best Inexpensive Pool Ramp For Dogs! → Skamper Escape Ramp
Price: $
Quality: ***
Capacity: ***
Design: ****
Safety: ****
In general, dog pool ramps are quite expensive. However, I’ve found an excellent option for small budgets.
The Skamper Escape Ramp is an affordable product to allow your dog to get in and out of the pool without assistance. Originally designed to be an animal rescue device, it also works very well as a pool ramp for dogs!
With its simple and versatile design, this equipment can be used for swimming pools, lakes, oceans, or boats.
Light, well made, and durable, it’s the perfect solution for small to medium breeds. For large dogs, I would either recommend the Super Skamper-Ramp Version or opting for another product!
With an inexpensive pool dog ramp, you might have issues with the quality of the product. The Skamper Dog Ramp isn’t the best option out there, but it offers an outstanding value for the price.
Moreover, most drawbacks can be easily fixed. With some improvements, you can provide your dog with easy and safe access to the pool for very cheap!
Best Dog Pool Ramp For:
- Great Value For The Money. (Inexpensive & Good Quality)
- Small To Medium Breeds. (Under 25 lbs)
- In-Ground Swimming Pools.
- Ease Of Use.
Pros.
- Simple Design That Offers Your Dog An Easy Climbing In & Out Of The Pool.
- Excellent Quality For The Low Price.
- Lightweight, Sturdy & Durable Construction.
- Quick Assembly & Easy To Use.
- Safe For Vinyl Pool Liners.
- Can Be Flip Out Of The Water When Your Dog Doesn’t Need It.
- 100% Recyclable Green Product Made In The USA.
- Resistant To Water, UV Rays & Chlorine.
Cons.
- Not Suitable For Large & Heavy Dogs.
- More Slippery Than Most Other Ramps.
- Relatively Poor Quality Materials.
Pro Tips For The Skamper Dog Pool Ramp!
- Opt For The Large Version Even If Your Dog Is Small!
- Add Some Ropes To The Sections of the Ramp With Exposed Holes For Better Traction!
Product Details.
Size →
- Regular
- Large (Recommended)
Dimensions →
- 25” L x 13” W x 7” H.
- 40” L x 13” W x 7” H.
Weight →
- 2.8 lbs
- 4.8 lbs
Capacity →
- Up To 25 lbs.
- Up To 50 lbs.
Color →
- White.
- White.
My Overall Rating: 3.5/5 → 3.8/5 (With Additional Improvement)
Best Dog Platform For Swimming Pools! → Great Day Load-A-Pup Platform
Price: $$$
Quality: *****
Capacity: *****
Design: ***
Safety: ****
This loading platform for boats could also be used as a dog ramp for pools. As long as you have a normal ladder in your swimming pool, this gear could be an excellent investment.
Lightweight, simple to use, and sturdy, the Load-A-Pup allows your dog to get in and out of the water quite easily. Whether it’s for swimming in your backyard pool or recreational boating, it’s an excellent ladder system for your dog.
The platform has gripping ridges on the surface to provide him with steady footing. For your satisfaction, this dog pool ramp is also easy to install and very simple to use!
Best Dog Loading Platform For:
- Pools & Boats With Boarding Ladders.
- Durability & Sturdiness.
- Heavy & Large Dog Breeds. (High-Capacity)
Pros.
- Easy To Use & Simple To Install.
- Support Heavy & Large Dogs Up To 100-150 lbs.
- Made From High-Quality & Durable Aircraft Aluminum.
- Lightweight For Easy Transportation.
- Foldable For Compact Storage.
Cons.
- You Must Have An Appropriate Poolside Boarding Ladder To Use This Dog Platform.
- Slightly Small Surface For Large Breeds.
- Not Great For Dogs (Old, Very Small…) That Can’t Jump From The Platform To The Deck.
Product Details.
Platform Dimensions: 14” W x 20” L
Weight: 7 lbs.
Capacity: 100-150 lbs.
Color: Powder-Coated White.
Video:
The concept is the same to use this ramp for your swimming pool. Instead of installing the Great Day Loading Platform on your boat, you do it on your pool’s ladder!
My Overall Rating: 3.8/5 (Based On Pool Use)
Best Pool Steps For Dogs! → Paws Aboard PoolPup Steps
Price: $$$
Quality: ***
Capacity: ***
Design: ****
Safety: ****
This simple pool steps system ensures easy, secure, and durable access to water for your dog. This versatile equipment is working on both in-ground and above-ground pools.
Built to last, it’s made from solid ABS plastic that’s UV stable, waterproof, and resistant to chlorine. The 3 steps also have anti-slip strips on the surface to offer steady footing to your dog!
After the installation, the Paws Aboard PoolPup Steps are very easy to remove for cleaning or storage. The design of this pool dog ramp is simple, safe, and efficient. Moreover, it won’t damage your vinyl liners.
The only downsides of this product are that some construction tweaks might be necessary, and the capacity is not as high as the company claims it to be. Overall, it’s another interesting pool ramp to help your dog get in and out of the water without assistance!
Best Dog Pool Ramp For:
- Small To Medium Breeds.
- In-Ground & Above-Ground Pools.
- Good Quality For The Money.
Pros.
- Ensure Solid Footing With Slip-Proof Grip On The Steps.
- Works Well On Most Types Of Pools & Docks.
- Straightforward & Discreet Pool Steps Design For Dogs.
- Made From Sturdy & Long-Lasting Material.
- Fast & Easy To Remove For Cleaning, Transportation, or Storage.
Cons.
- Fairly Difficult To Install.
- Plastic Screws Won’t Hold For Medium To Large Dogs.
- Not Strong Enough Structure.
My Tips To Improve The PoolPup Steps Construction!
- Replace The Plastic Screws With Steel Ones!
- Add Super Glue Or Plastic Ties If The Structure Doesn’t Hold Up!
Product Details.
Dimensions: 24 x 18 x 24 inches.
Steps Height (Depend On The Pool Design & Water Level):
- First Step → 14.5 inches deep.
- Second Step → 8.5 inches underwater.
Capacity: 150 lbs. → Up To 60-80 lbs.
Material: ABS Plastic.
Color: White.
My Overall Rating: 3.6/5 → 3.8/5 (With Some Construction Tweaks)
Other Great Dog Pool Ladders & Ramps!
Best Multi-Purpose (Pool, Car, Bed, Etc) Ramp For Dogs! → PetStep Folding Dog Ramp
Price: $$$
Quality: *****
Capacity: *****
Design: **
Safety: ****
This dog ramp is one of the best options out there. It’s high-quality, durable, safe, and foldable. The design is my only concern for using the PetStep Ramp in your swimming pool.
It has been constructed to help dogs get in cars or beds. However, it could also be an excellent accessory to allow your buddy to get in and out of the water!
It’s waterproof, sturdy, and very stable, so this dog ramp is totally appropriate for swimming pools. But without any adaptation, this lightweight gear will float away in deep water.
Nonetheless, you could invest in the PetStep Swimming Pool Legs Kit and add anchors or other attachment points to repurpose this pet ramp for your pool. Thus, it’s an excellent investment if you’re ready to adjust this dog accessory for your needs!
Best Dog Ramp For:
- Swimming Pools With Shallow Ends.
- Multi-Purpose Pet Accessibility Ramp.
- High-Quality & Durability.
Pros.
- Easy To Install, Use & Clean.
- High Capacity Ramp To Hold Up Heavy & Large Dogs.
- Superior Traction With The Slip-Resistant Rubber Surface.
- Foldable & Lightweight Design For Compact Storage & Easy Portability.
- Great Dog Ramp For Cars, Beds & Pools.
- Made From Sturdy, Waterproof & Durable Materials.
- Excellent Value For The Money.
Cons.
- Need To Repurpose The Ramp To Use It In Your Swimming Pool.
- Not Ideal For Deep Pools.
- No Fixation System For Optimal Stability In The Water.
Product Details.
Dimensions: 70” L x 17” W x 2.5” H
Dimensions When Folded: 36” L x 17” W x 5.75” H
Capacity: Up To 200 lbs.
Material: Composite Plastic.
Color: Khaki/Beige Or Granite/Gray.
My Overall Rating: 3.2/5 (Based On Pool Use Only)
Best Water Ramp For Pools, Boats & Docks! → MEIREN Dog Water Ramp
Price: $$$$
Quality: ****
Capacity: ****
Design: ****
Safety: ****
This is another great option that’s originally made for boats or docks. Its design consist of two huge floating tubes with one solid net fixed on a small platform.
Therefore, it’s an excellent setup to help the dog getting in and out of the water. This unique, efficient, and safe design has made many happy customers!
The only problem with the MEIREN Dog Water Ramp is that it’s not specifically constructed for pools. However, you can build a little wood dock or any other system to attach the ramp to your poolside.
Overall, this product might be the ideal solution to ensure your dog has easy and safe access to your swimming pool. You only need some creativity and engineering skills to make it work!
Best Dog Water Ramp For:
- Boats, Docks & Pools.
- Large or Heavy Dogs.
- Durability & Sturdiness.
Pros.
- Flexible Mesh For Easy & Comfortable Climbing.
- Well-Made Tubing & Fasteners For Long-Lasting Use.
- Versatile Water Ramp For Boating, Swimming, Retrieving, Etc.
- Excellent Capacity To Support Heavy & Large Dogs.
- Great Ramp For Every Dog Size.
- Simple Design To Understand For Your Companion Without Training.
Cons.
- Not Originally Made For Pools.
- Bulky Ramp.
- You Must Figure Out How To Fix The Ramp On Your Pool.
Product Details.
Tubes Dimensions:
- Inflated: 34″ Wide x 63″ Long.
- Deflated: 34″ Wide x 21″ Long x 8″ Deep.
Deck Dimensions: 34″ x 21″.
Weight: 18 lbs.
Capacity: Up To 100-150 lbs.
My Overall Rating: 3.4/5 (Based On Pool Use Only)
Other Dog Ladder For Pool! → Paws Aboard Dog Ramp
Price: $$$$
Quality: ****
Capacity: *****
Design: ***
Safety: ****
Here’s another dog boat ramp that could be used on your pool ladder. It’s designed with multiple steps to allow your buddy to get in and out of the water without any difficulty.
Made from durable and sturdy materials, this water ramp is appropriate for all sizes of dog breeds. Thus, it’s an excellent accessory for your boat or swimming pool!
Lightweight, portable, and easy to use, it’s very convenient for you as well. Again, the only concern you must be aware of is that it’s not made for pools. However, you can use the Paws Aboard Ramp in your swimming pool if there’s a ladder with more than 3 steps to install it.
You could also find another way to fix in on your dock or poolside with some imagination and construction skills. Thus, this ramp is the perfect investment to spend more time in the water with your dog, whether it’s in your pool or your boat!
Best Dog Ramp For:
- Pools, Boat, or Docks With Basic Ladders.
- In-Ground & Above-Ground Pools.
- Small To Medium Dog Breeds.
Pros.
- Made From Plastic, Rubber & Stainless Steel For Durability & Low-Maintenance.
- Anti-Slip Ribbed Surface On The Steps To Ensure Safe Footing To Your Dog.
- Lightweight For Better Portability.
- Foldable For Compact Storage.
- High Visibility Color That’s Easy To Spot For Your Dog.
Cons.
- Stairs Could Be Too Narrow For Large Dogs.
- Doesn’t Work On All Types Of Ladders.
- Quite Bulky & Inconvenient To Install.
Product Details.
Dimensions: 64 x 17 x 4 inches.
Weight: 12 lbs.
Capacity: Up To 100-150 lbs.
Material: Plastic, Rubber & Stainless Steel.
My Overall Rating: 3.5/5 (Based On Pool Use Only)
Products Recommendation Conclusion.
One of the 8 dog pool ramps I’ve just shared with you might be the accessory you were looking for. Unfortunately, there are only a few other options than the products I recommend in this article since the market for dog pool accessibility gear is very small.
However, there’s certainly one ramp out there that will be suitable for your needs. I’m sure one option on my top list can help your buddy to get in and out of the water easily, safely, and without assistance!
Now here’s the ultimate question: Which dog pool ramp should you choose?
My quick overview for each product might save you several hours of research, but you still need to pick the best option for you among my recommendations. Thus, let me share with you all the information I’ve found on dog pool ramps and ladders!
Why Should You Invest In Dog Pool Ramps?
First of all, you should understand why you and your companion need this accessory. There are plenty of good reasons to invest in dog ramps for swimming pools. Whether it’s to exercise with him, play in the water, or ensure his safety around your backyard pool, this equipment is what you need!
However, the main purpose of this investment will certainly influence your final decision. That’s why it’s important to know why you want this dog pool ladder right off the bat!
For example, choosing a ramp that’s extremely reliable, durable, and high-quality is crucial if you’re looking to ensure the safety of your dog around your pool. On the other hand, some people could invest in an option that’s less expensive if they only want to use it for occasional entertainment!
What Is The Best Design Of Dog Ramps For Pools?
In my recommendations, there are some different types of dog pool accessibility gear. The 3 main categories of dog boarding systems are ramps, steps, and platforms. Each of these designs has some advantages to offer and downsides to deal with. Let’s see which type of dog ladder is the most appropriate for your needs!
Dog Pool Ramps.
It’s a platform with an angle that will help your dog climbing in and out of the water. The ramp is ideal for mobility assistance in cars, beds, or any other place he can’t reach by jumping. In general, it’s an excellent accessory for old, overweight, injured, and large dogs!
Since both ends of the ramp should be fixed on flat surfaces, it’s not always ideal for pools. On the other hand, dog pool ramps can provide easy and safe access to your buddy if the design is appropriate!
Pros.
- Joint-Friendly Design For An Easy & Safe Access To The Pool.
- Convenient To Enter & Exit The Water.
- Effortless To Climb For Your Dog.
- Versatile Dog Accessibility Gear.
Cons.
- Might Be Slippery Because It’s Flat & Inclined.
- Not Ideally Design For Pools.
Best Dog Pool Ramps I Recommend!
Dog Steps For Swimming Pools.
Pet-friendly stairs could also be useful to help your dog to get in and out of your pool. It’s the same concept as ramps, but with steps instead of a flat surface. This type of boarding system is simple to use, secure, and more adapted for pool use!
On the contrary to ramps, pool steps are more likely to offer a steady and safe footing. However, climbing stairs can be difficult for dogs, and it puts more stress on their joints. Thus, a ladder design might be ideal for your swimming companion if he’s agile and active enough to use dog pool steps!
Pros.
- Ensure Safe & Efficient Access With Steady Footing.
- Simple Design That’s Generally Easy To Install & Use.
- Very Stable, Solid & Durable Construction.
Cons.
- Not Gentle On Joints.
- Require Some Effort To Climb Steps For Your Dog.
- Not The Best Design To Get In The Water Smoothly & Easily.
- The Steps Height Could Be Problematic For Very Small or Large Dogs.
Best Pool Steps For Dogs I’ve Found!
Dog Platforms.
It’s a boarding system that consists of one large platform. It allows your furry friend to jump in and out of the water. This design is similar to dog steps, so it’s not the best option for old, overweight, and injured pets.
On the other hand, it’s the perfect accessory for boating, swimming, or water retrieving with your active dog. One of the most interesting advantages of water platforms for dogs is the simplicity. Easy to install, use, and carry, this boarding solution is very convenient.
Moreover, the construction is generally solid enough to support large and heavy furballs. Overall, this is an excellent option for young, agile, and energetic dogs!
Pros.
- Simple To Use, Set Up & Transport.
- Well-Made & Durable Design With High-Capacity.
- Versatile Water Dog Accessory.
Cons.
- Don’t Offer An Easy & Smooth Climbing Experience.
- Most Dog Platforms Need To Be Installed On A Ladder.
- Not Well-Suited For Small, Overweight & Other Dogs That Can’t Jump High.
Best Dog Platform For Swimming Pools!
Other Types Of Ladder For Dogs.
Obviously, there are many other unique pool entrance and exit designs for dogs. Nonetheless, most options on the market are either ramps, steps, platforms or have been inspired by one of these types of construction.
For example, some dog boat ladders such as the MEIREN Dog Water Ramp could also be great for pools with some improvement and adaptation!
How To Choose The Best Pool Ramp For Your Dog?
My product recommendations are useless if you don’t know how to select the right option for your needs. That’s why you must understand which factors and features are essential to consider in this process!
Unfortunately, there’s no ultimate pool ramp that’s ideal for all dogs. Thus, let me guide you through this buying decision to find the perfect accessory to help your buddy get in and out of your pool easily, safely, and efficiently!
Things You Should Consider To Pick The Right Pool Ramp For Your Dog!
To be honest, shopping for dog gear isn’t always easy. You will have to take into account multiple variables. To keep it simple, I’ve selected the two main elements to consider when choosing a dog ramp for pools!
Your Dog’s Needs & Conditions!
First of all, you must understand that every companion is unique. Your dog’s size, age, health conditions, and many other elements will influence which pool ladder will be the best option for him. For example, my Labrador won’t need the same support or ramp size as a Chihuahua or Great Dane!
To ensure the climbing surface is large enough for your dog, you should search for ramps, steps, or platforms that are slightly wider than him. For the capacity, you must select an option that can support a little bit more than your buddy’s weight!
Then, some dogs with certain conditions should opt for specific designs. For instance, pool ramps might be better than platforms and steps for your companion if he’s old or overweight.
It’s essential to consider every single one of his characteristics. Otherwise, you won’t find the perfect solution to provide him with easy and safe access to your swimming pool!
Your Pool’s Design!
The other important part to consider is the pool where you plan to swim with your dog. You could have the best ladder in the world; you won’t be able to use it if it doesn’t fit your poolside or deck. Thus, here are my recommendations for different types of swimming pools!
Best Dog Ramp For Above Ground Pools:
Best Inground Pool Ladders For Dogs:
Best Dog Ramps For Pools With Ladder:
What Makes Good Pool Ladders & Ramps For Dogs?
Understanding your furball’s needs and which ramp will fit properly on your pool isn’t sufficient. You should also know the most important dog ramp features to consider for swimming pools. Let me share with you everything you need to analyze your options and make your final decision!
Easy & Safe Access To The Pool.
The most important element to consider is the reason why you invest in a dog ladder. Whether the ramp is lightweight, heavy-duty, foldable, or anything else that sounds good, all those features are useless if it’s not functional!
Thus, it’s essential to select an option that’s adapted to your dog’s needs and your pool’s design to help him get in and out of the water.
Moreover, you should make sure the ladder is as safe and easy to climb as possible. For example, an anti-slip surface, stable design, gentle angle, and some other features could seriously improve your dog’s swimming experience!
Made From Solid & Durable Materials.
Another essential thing to consider when looking at dog ramps is their construction. Providing your buddy with secure and smooth access to the pool is great, but the ladder’s structure also has to support his weight. With the right materials and design, this pool accessory will offer a sturdy and long-lasting solution!
Investing in a high-quality pool dog ramp is an excellent idea to avoid solidity or durability issues. However, it’s generally simple to notice if this type of product is well-made or not.
You merely have to analyze the materials and the way it’s built. That’s why I highly recommend you to look at the ramp construction, capacity, and other product details!
Designed For Swimming Pools. (Waterproof, Slip-Resistant)
To save some money and have more options, you might be tempted to choose a universal dog ramp in your pool. Unfortunately, I would definitely not recommend this strategy. Even if you could save a couple of bucks, it isn’t worth all the possible problems you could encounter!
Opting for a dog ladder that’s made especially for swimming pools is the right way to go. You won’t have to worry about waterproof materials, major installation issues, etc.
If you’re ready to use your creativity and engineering knowledge to repurpose a car, boat, bed, or multi-purpose dog ladder for your pool, feel free to try it. Otherwise, it’s common sense to invest in gear that’s designed for what you’re looking for!
Other Interesting Features.
Once you’ve found some functional dog pool ramps, it’s all about understanding your personal needs and preferences. You might want an accessory that’s easy to install, foldable, lightweight, portable, etc. It’s time to find the pool ladder that will be as convenient as possible for you and your dog’s requirements!
The most important is to keep in mind that those extra features aren’t essential. Thus, please don’t neglect the main criteria presented sooner for your satisfaction.
The best pool dog ramps, ladders, or steps might require more installation time. But if it ensures easy and safe access to the water, it’s a no brainer!
What About Your Budget For Dog Pool Ramps?
The money should not restrict you from investing in the best gear for your buddy, especially when his safety is at stake.
Thus, I highly recommend you avoid automatically opting for the most affordable product like the Skamper Escape Ramp. Only consider this option if your budget is really low.
Otherwise, my recommendation would be to invest in a high-quality dog ladder such as the WAG Steps For Pools!
My Last Advice → Read The Reviews!
Before investing in any dog ramp on the market, I highly recommend you look at the reviews. This is the simplest way to have multiple feedbacks from real customers.
Fortunately, I’ve already put together what you should know about the products I suggest in this article!
To be honest with you, that’s mainly how I’ve rated and analyzed the products because I don’t personally use all of them. As you can see, I’ve found plenty of useful information just by reading the reviews and doing more advanced research!
It’s Time To Invest In The Right Pool Ladder For Your Dog!
Now you have all the information you need to choose the right dog pool ramp for your needs. Whether you opt for one of my recommendations or another product, it doesn’t matter.
As long as our pets are safe around swimming pools, I’m fine with that. Just make sure you are well equipped to have fun and play in the water with your dog safely!
How To Use Your New Dog Pool Ramp?
The most important task of choosing the ideal pool ladder for your dog is done. However, you will still have some work to do after your purchase. Unfortunately, your new piece of equipment won’t get installed and assembled by itself!
In general, you will only need to follow the construction guidelines provided by the company. If the dog ramp doesn’t fit on your pool or you have any other issue with the product, you can always contact customer support.
The employees might find a way to help you out or offer you a refund. It all depends on the situation and the policy of the brand!
How To Train Your Dog To Use The Pool Ramp?
Once the ladder is all set up, you’re almost ready to swim in the pool with your dog safely. The last step is to teach him how to use the ramp to get in and out of the water.
Some designs are easier to understand than others, but it shouldn’t be too difficult if you have selected the right product!
First of all, I highly recommend you introduce your dog to the pool ladder. Let him analyze it, sniff it, walk on it, or do anything else he wants.
During this exploration, you need to make sure he’s having fun discovering his new accessory. An excellent way to help your buddy associate the pool ramp with positive things is to give him treats when he uses it!
Then, your dog should be ready to try it in the water. At the start, don’t throw him in the pool to see if he can use the ladder on his own. Instead, you should make sure his first experience is easy, fun, and gratifying!
It’s possible that your companion needs help to get in and out of the water without any significant experience with his new ramp. Don’t let him struggle; Help him!
If motivation is the main problem, you could also lure him with treats or his favorite toy. He’s more likely to climb up and down the ladder if he gets a reward to do it. Overall, you should take your time, be patient, and have fun with your dog during this learning curve!
Your Dog Is Finally Ready To Have Fun In Your Swimming Pool!
With some practice, your buddy should be able to get in and out of the water without assistance. It means no more bending and tugging him out of the water. With your new dog ladder, you will finally be able to spend more time with him playing around the pool!
Other Essential Dog Gear For Pools!
A ladder isn’t the only swimming accessory your buddy must have to be safe around the pool. Any water source can be dangerous for dogs, even if they know how to swim and get out of it!
That’s why investing in a canine life jacket is essential to let your companion play in your pool safely. My recommendation would be to invest in the Ruffwear Float Coat!
For pure entertainment, I also suggest you buy some dog pool toys. Waterproof balls, frisbees, inflatable rafts, and many other fun accessories could help you to enjoy time in the water with your buddy. Let me share with you my 5 favorite dog products for swimming pools!
- Chuckit Amphibious Bumper Fetch Float Toy!
- HyperPet Dog Frisbee That Floats In The Water!
- Paws Aboard Doggy Raft!
- Kong Wet Wubba Dog Toy!
- Ruff Dawg Flying Fish Floating Dog Toy!
Extra Precautions To Take When Swimming With Your Dog!
In my opinion, you can never be too careful when your buddy is near the water. You should already have (or will receive) the right dog swimming gear to ensure his safety!
However, there are other things you should know before having fun together in your pool. Here are 5 precautions every dog owner should take when his companion is playing near or in the water!
- Don’t Let Your Dog Access To The Pool Without Supervision!
- Make Him Wear His Life Jacket When He’s Around The Water!
- Provide Your Dog With Plenty Of Fresh Drinking Water On Your Poolside!
- Always Keep An Eye On Him When He’s Playing Around The Water!
- Teach Your Dog How To Swim Properly To Prevent Accidents!
Swimming can actually be good for your dog, here’s why!
Last Thoughts About The Best Dog Ramps For Pools!
There are probably more things you can do than you initially thought to make sure your companion can swim safely in your pool. Investing in swimming gear for him is your responsibility to ensure his ready to play in the water with as few risks as possible.
Moreover, the time you have (or will) spend choosing the right pool ladder for your dog is totally worth all the fun you will have while playing in the water together!
Overall, you should opt for an accessory that’s easy for your buddy to climb on, safe, and sturdy enough to last for many years to come. Furthermore, the product you choose should also be perfectly adapted for his conditions and your pool’s design.
With all my recommendations and the information in this article, you have what you need to invest in the right pool ramp for your dog. I hope everything I’ve shared with you today helped (or will help) you find which option is the best for your needs.
My favorite option is the WAG Boarding Steps. Now it’s time to find what’s yours and invest in it. Have fun swimming with your companion!