small dogs using steps

9 Best Dog Steps Australia -
The Overview

Written By Vedrana Nikolic | B.A Ethnology & Anthropology, M.A Semiotics.
Edited & Fact Checked By Renae Soppe | B.A Journalism & Science. 
Last Updated: 24th January 2024

Dog stairs are a great way to keep your dog more comfortable when they need to climb to higher levels inside your home. Even if your dog is technically able to climb onto the couch or the bed, adding a set of stairs can help make the process much more graceful.

To help you decide, our expert team, with the cooperation of other professionals, tested various dog steps in Australia. After months of studying, we have come up with a list highlighting the best features of certain products and what you should know before choosing one.

Today's Best Dog Steps Australia guide helps you find the right product for you and your canine companion. Let's dig in!


Quick Picks - The Top 3

Our Number 1 Pick - 
i.Pet Portable Dog Steps

  • Perfect for small dogs
  • Affordable
  • Foldable & portable
  • Non-slip rubber feet for stability
  • Grip surface on the steps

Runner Up - 
PetSafe 62460 Solvit PupSTEP Plus Pet Stairs

  • Comes in two sizes, suitable for dogs up to 90 kg
  • Features carpeted steps, side rails and rubber feet for improved safety
  • Steps are lightweight and foldable, which allows you to store them anywhere

Third Choice - 
Pet Gear PG9710LC Easy Step II Pet Stairs

  • Wide and deep steps with an incline for easier climbing
  • Four colour options
  • Carpet thread is removable and machine washable


My Top Picks For Pet Steps in 2023

#1: Best Overall: i.Pet Portable Dog Steps 

i.Pet Portable Dog Steps

What sets this product apart from the rest?

  • Perfect for small dogs
  • Affordable
  • Foldable & portable
  • Non-slip rubber feet for stability
  • Grip surface on the steps
Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench

Dr Kathryn Rosalie Dench - M.A VetMB MRCVS.

Gentle Dog Trainers Expert Reviewer

"Steps are a great aid for dogs that are losing their mobility. The i.Pet Portable Dog Steps was a top performer in our tests for it's overall safety, ability to store and affordability. I personally liked the combination of non slip feet and lockable safety latch, which provides that extra layer of safety for our less mobile dogs."

These doggie steps from i.Pet are incredibly easy to use. Simply open them up, lock the safety latch in place, and you are ready to go.

The steps are very lightweight and easy to carry around which makes them a great choice if you need multi-purpose steps. Four steps will bring your pooch to a height of 62 cm - that’s perfect for reaching most sofas and beds, for example, but might also be high enough to let your dog get in your car.

We made this brand our first choice because compared to PetSafe and other options on this list, this has non-slip rubber feet at the bottom of the steps to prevent the whole construction from moving around, even on slippery flowers like tiles, so it stays in place while your dog moves up and down the steps. No wonder this brand is at the top of the list with all these fantastic features!

We definitely love this brand because it has a very dog-friendly design for our small dogs. It lets them move around the steps quickly. 

Another feature that makes it the best for us is that you can carry them around whenever your dog needs them. May it be inside your house where your dog wants to go, like the bed or sofa, or outside.

The steps are made of plastic which makes them quite lightweight but don’t worry, they aren’t flimsy! The weight capacity of these steps is 76 kg. Still, we do think they work best for small dogs like Doxies or Chihuahuas (as well as puppies). This is not because we are worried that the steps will break. Rather, each step might be too small for a large dog to walk comfortably.

The steps also feature a grip surface which ensures your dog gets a secure foothold when walking up. That’s especially important in the case of dogs with mobility issues, as you don’t want to make their problems worse.

Pros

Cons

  • Perfect for small dogs
  • Not the best solution for very large dogs
  • Affordable
Cell
  • Foldable & portable
Cell
  • Non-slip rubber feet for stability
Cell
  • Grip surface on the steps
Cell

PetSafe 62460 Solvit PupSTEP Plus Pet Stairs

What sets this product apart from the rest?

  • Comes in two sizes, suitable for dogs up to 90 kg
  • Features carpeted steps, side rails and rubber feet for improved safety
  • Steps are lightweight and foldable, which allows you to store them anywhere

These steps from PetSafe have all the important features. They’re sturdy, lightweight, foldable, but above all, stylish. They’re perfect for reaching high pieces of furniture, and their simple design and a beautiful tan colour will blend in every type of interior.

PetSafe added several features that keep your dog safe when using these dog stairs. First, each step is carpeted, which helps paws grip the step when climbing up or down. This is an especially helpful feature for elderly and injured dogs, who can easily lose their balance. This carpeted cover is easy to wash with mild detergent and water. The PupSTEP also comes with a safety rail that’s 17 cm wide. Finally, these steps have rubber feet, which keeps them stable while in use. When they aren’t needed, you can fold them down and store.

We chose this brand as our second option because, unlike i.Pet, these steps come in two sizes. The standard version can hold up to 55 kg, while the extra-large can support a weight of up to 90 kg. While these steps are sturdy, they are still too narrow for a large dog to easily climb upon them, such as Great Dane. They're more suitable for small and medium breeds.

Unlike Pet Gear, which can only carry 35 kg, this product can handle heavier dogs, so you don't have to worry about your dog's safety.

Also, our dog likes to walk around carpets, and they definitely LOVE this!

Pros

Cons

  • Comes in two sizes, suitable for dogs up to 90 kg
  • Not suitable for large dogs like Great Danes or Newfoundlanders 
  • Features carpeted steps, side rails and rubber feet for improved safety
Cell
  • Steps are lightweight and foldable, which allows you to store them anywhere
Cell

Pet Gear PG9710LC Easy Step II Pet Stairs
  • Wide and deep steps with an incline for easier climbing
  • Four colour options
  • Carpet thread is removable and machine washable

Pooches love cozying up on a couch, but the older they get, the harder it becomes for them to reach those high places. No matter if they’re small or large, they aren’t as agile as they used to be, so jumping is off the table. What these dogs need is good two-step stairs to reach their favourite sleeping locations, and the Easy Step II from Pet Gear is just that.

Height wise, these stairs are perfect for reaching any average-sized sofa. Steps on these stairs are wide and deep, which allows an easy climb for both small and large dogs. However, these stairs are not suitable for dogs weighing more than 35 kg. They come in four colour options - chocolate, essential grey, light cocoa and pecan, and each of them will look beautiful with any room decor.

Compared to iPet and PetSafe, this brand has wider and deeper steps, making it our third option. We like this feature because it is safer, especially for small dogs, and it would make climbing easier for them.

Both steps are inclined, which is supposed to help your pooch climb up without using too much force on the paws. The steps are also covered with a carpet thread, which protects from the possibility of slipping off of stairs. 

The steps feature solid rubber grips on the bottom, which keeps them from moving on a wooden or laminate floor, similar to i.Pet. They come disassembled, but putting them together is a piece of cake, even without a manual.

Another feature that we like about this product is the removable carpet steps which were also not present with the first and second options. Over time, as our dogs use the stairs, dirt and stains can get to them, and it's easier for us to clean them if we can remove them from the steps.

Pros

Cons

  • Wide and deep steps with an incline for easier climbing
  • Not suitable for dogs over 35 kg
  • Four colour options
Cell
  • Carpet thread is removable and machine washable
Cell

Dallas Manufacturing Co. 3 Step Home Décor Pet Steps
  • DuraCore technology makes the stepper lightweight but sturdy
  • Polyester cover safe for machine washing
  • Affordable

Are you searching for lightweight but sturdy pet steps? Dallas Manufacturing Co. has a product just like that. They weigh 1.5 kg but can handle a dog up to 70 kg.

Unlike Pet Gear, which can only carry 35 kg, this product can handle heavier dogs, so you don't have to worry about your dog's safety.

You might be wondering how can such a lightweight product withstand a dog like a Mastiff or an Irish Hound? The answer lies in a DuraCore technology, which is a unique cardboard configuration. Dense honeycomb-like cardboard pieces equally distribute the weight on each step, so it doesn’t bend down under high pressure.

The Dallas Manufacturing Co. 3 Step Home Décor Pet Steps being tested by our independent expert team.

Dallas Manufacturing Co. 3 Step Home Décor Pet Steps being tested by our review team.

A convenient carry handle on the back of the stairs allows you to easily move it from one place to another. Even though the steps are so lightweight, a non-skid bottom assures they don’t move around on a slippery floor. You can choose between a 3-step and 4-step option, depending on how tall your furniture is.

These dog steps are covered with soft polyester for extra comfort. The fabric is so fluffy, you’ll probably find your tiny pooch curled up on the stairs, instead of a couch. It also makes the whole product softer and you are less likely to stub your toes on the corner of the steps (the same applies with our next two options as well). The cover comes in two colours, grey and tan, and it’s safe for machine washing. However, putting it in a dryer is not recommended, as the cover might shrink.

Compared to the fifth option, this brand has a DuraCore technology which makes the steps lightweight and sturdy for your dogs. 

What we also like about this brand is its removable cover that you can put in the washing machine. You don't have to drag the whole thing and hand wash it. It's convenient for us and for our dogs.

Also, this brand offers an option for taller surfaces which is one of the reasons why we recommended it.

Pros

Cons

  • DuraCore technology makes the stepper lightweight but sturdy
  • The cover is not safe for machine-drying
  • List Polyester cover safe for machine washing
Cell
  • Affordable
Cell

Zinus Easy Pet Stairs/Pet Ramp/Pet Ladder
  • High-density foam is suitable for injured and elderly dogs
  • Variety of sizes
  • Features a comfy cover that’s easy to clean
  • Great dog steps for high beds

No matter whether your dog hasn’t learned yet, or is no longer able to jump on a bed, there’s a solution to that. With proper dog stairs, just like these from Zinus, your pooch can climb onto a couch or bed and sleep next to you.

These stairs are made of dense foam which makes them sturdy enough to withstand the weight of a 35 kg dog. The foam carries the CertiPUR-US certificate attesting to its quality.

Compared to Dallas Manufacturing Co., this brand uses high-quality foam for its stairs. We highly recommend this, especially for our dogs that have trouble moving around and need a soft surface to help them.

The Zinus Easy Pet Stairs/Pet Ramp/Pet Ladder being tested by our independent expert team.

Zinus Easy Pet Stairs/Pet Ramp/Pet Ladder being tested by our review team.

The steps come in a variety of size options, ranging from X-Small to X-Large. The size actually refers to the height of the stairs, rather than the weight capacity. The smallest option comes with two, while the largest comes with five steps, so you can choose the perfect model depending on the height of your furniture.

One possible issue could be the depth of the steps, if your dog is on the larger side. Namely, the individual steps are only 17 cm deep, no matter which size of these steps you choose. This will work for many dogs, but for some breeds, it could be too narrow.

The setup is easy - attach the steps, then zip the cover, and you’re done. The cover on these stairs is made of plush, which is so comfy for your pooch’s paws. The stairs come in a charcoal colour, which makes dirt and hair not easily visible. But the washing itself is a breeze. Unzip and place it in the washing machine on a cold cycle.

This brand offers a variety of options in terms of sizes, which we really love considering that other dog stairs have only one or very few options to choose from.

Pros

Cons

  • High-density foam is suitable for injured and elderly dogs
  • Some dogs might find steps too narrow
  • Variety of sizes
Cell
  • Features a comfy cover that’s easy to clean
Cell
  • Great dog steps for high beds
Cell

OZSTOCK Portable Pet Soft Plush 3 Steps Ladder
  • Sturdy material ideal for small and medium-sized dogs
  • Ease of assembly
  • Removable and washable soft plush cover

Most steps on the market are made of a soft material that can make you wonder how’s that going to withstand your dog’s weight. If you’re one of those always-worried pet parents, then choose an engineered wood product such as these steps from OZSTOCK.

These steps are made of medium density fibreboard. This material is created by breaking down wood residuals into wood fibres, combined with wax and a resin binder, and then formed into panels by applying high pressure. It arrives disassembled, but with a little help from a manual, you’ll set it up in no time. It also comes with a hex key, so you don’t need an extra tool for assembling it.

If you're a fan of wooden products and your dog has no trouble jumping around surfaces, we truly recommend this brand because, unlike Zinus, this has a sturdy step, but it is covered with a very soft material that our dogs will love.

However, don’t let the material fool you. Just because it’s a wooden product, it doesn’t mean it's suitable for the largest of dogs standing on it. These steps are suitable for small and medium-sized pets.

The stepper weighs around 4.5 kg, a normal weight for a piece of furniture made with actual wood. Steps are 15.5 cm wide, which assures that the dog goes up and down the stairs with ease. A soft plush cover makes the steps gentle on dog’s paws, while also looking stylish.

We like this product because it's unique and particularly easy to assemble.

Pros

Cons

  • Sturdy material ideal for small and medium-sized dogs
  • No non-skid bottom
  • Ease of assembly
Cell
  • Removable and washable soft plush cover
Cell

Paws N Claws Portable 3 Steps Pet Dog Stairs
  • Convenient for reaching different high places
  • Lightweight, foldable and portable
  • Non-slip step cover and side rails for safe climbing

If you’re searching for high-quality portable steps, then these Paws N Claws stairs are a great choice for you. Whether you want to prevent your pooch from jumping off high surfaces or get into the car, these stairs will do their job well.

These stairs are 38 cm tall, which makes them suitable for different high places that your pooch is having trouble reaching. The steps will work for getting onto the sofa, bed and even into the car. They weigh only 2 kg, which makes them easily portable. You can even take them to the vet or a dog park with you, in case your canine companion needs help climbing.

Unlike OZSTOCK, this brand is portable, so you can carry them with you wherever your dogs need them. Also, your dog can easily reach higher places through this stair.

The frame of these steps is made of high-quality, durable plastic. The material is sturdy enough to withstand the weight of a large dog. However, the size of the steps doesn’t make them suitable for dogs larger than, for instance, a Border Collie. The steps are covered with a non-slip cover, which assures your dog doesn’t slip off.

These are the best features of this product that we recommend because they make our dogs safe, which is our top priority when buying a stair for them.

You’ll probably notice that the shape of these stairs doesn’t leave enough material on the bottom to prevent it from moving across the floor. That’s why it’s advisable to use them over a carpet, not tile or hardwood floors.

Pros

Cons

  • Convenient for reaching different high places
  • Can glide over smooth floors
  • Lightweight, foldable and portable
Cell
  • Non-slip step cover and side rails for safe climbing
Cell

#8: Best Dog Steps for Car: PaWz Pet Stairs

PaWz Pet Stairs
  • Eco-friendly materials
  • Supports up to 76 kg
  • Great for getting into an SUV or a truck

PaWz is known for using high-quality materials for their products, while also keeping a budget-friendly price. That’s also true in case of these pet stairs that are designed for dogs of all ages and sizes.

These PaWz steps are made of a polypropylene plastic, which is considered to be the safest type of plastic. It has a low impact on the environment since it doesn’t release any toxin waste or emission. This material decomposes in only 20-30 years and it’s also recyclable.

The PaWz Pet Stairs being tested by our independent expert team.

PaWz Pet Stairs being tested by our review team.

These stairs have sturdy construction. They’re designed to support the weight of 76 kg. The first step is 16 cm, while the last one is 19 cm deep, which makes them great even for large dogs. With a height of 50 cm, your dog can easily get inside your SUV.

Compared to Paws N Claws and the other brands, this product has the heaviest capacity, so it is very suitable for larger dogs.

Each step features a unique anti-slip mat made of soft felt. These mats give dogs a stable surface and allow them to climb up and down with ease and confidence. The mats are glued onto the steps, but are still easily cleaned. You can wipe the dirt with a cloth, while those stubborn stains will need just a bit of mild detergent.

One of the reasons why we like this product is that it is eco-friendly. If you value sustainable and environmentally safe products, this is definitely for you!

Pros

Cons

  • Eco-friendly materials
  • Can close down when not using a safety buckle
  • Supports up to 76 kg
Cell
  • Great for getting into an SUV or a truck
Cell

#9: Best For Small Dogs: Roomnhome pet Storage Stepper

Roomnhome pet Storage Stepper
  • 2-step and 3-step option
  • Comes with a decent storage space
  • When not used, can be folded for storing away

Just like any piece of furniture, dog steps take up space, which is even more prominent in small spaces. But 2-in-1 objects are a lifesaver for tiny rooms, and that’s why this stepper from Roomnhome is a great option if you live in a small apartment.

These stairs come with a storage space underneath each step, which gives you plenty of room for storing toys, leashes or just about anything you want to put away. You can choose between a 2-step and a 3-step option, depending on your dog’s needs.

Of all the options on this list, this brand offers a stair that can be used as a storage box. We obviously love an extra room for storing our dogs' things!

The Roomnhome pet Storage Stepper being tested by our independent expert team.

Roomnhome pet Storage Stepper being tested by our review team.

The product is made of polyester and filled with sponge, and it’s designed for dogs under 8 kg. However, when empty, the steps can be a bit soft and flimsy. This tiny drawback is easily fixed by simply storing more stuff inside the steps. It’s such a shame that dogs over 8 kg aren’t able to enjoy the beauty and comfort of this stepper.

The stairs are white coloured, while the top of the stairs features a striped pattern, a style that never goes out of fashion. It will look beautiful along with your furniture, no matter what your interior style is.

We like the uniqueness of this stair, and it has features that are not present with the other brands. The storage is clearly an advantage for us!

Pros

Cons

  • 2-step and 3-step option
  • Only for dogs under 8 kg
  • Comes with a decent storage space
Cell
  • When not used, can be folded for storing away
Cell

When Do Dogs Need Steps?

How do you know if your dog needs help getting onto things? If your canine companion is small or tiny, the answer is quite simple. If you notice your dog not being able to get to areas of your home where they should be, you can help them by installing dog steps. Whenever you see your dog can’t jump on something comfortably, providing help in the form of steps is a good idea.

Moreover, it is not just the small dogs that need help. Dogs of any size can start having mobility issues as they grow older. These issues can be caused by arthritis or a variety of spine and joint problems (1).

“Most of the time, people notice that their dogs are doing less or having more difficulty with common activities. The dog now has problems getting up on the couch, or going up the stairs, or getting in the back of the SUV.” - James L. Cook, the director of the Comparative Orthopaedic Laboratory at the University of Missouri-Columbia for FETCH

Once you notice your dog needs help, the next step is choosing the right product to help them. To begin with, you have two options here: using a dog ramp, or using dog steps.

“Stairs need less room than ramps, so they work great in small areas, such as next to a bed or couch. High-quality stairs also tend to be less expensive than high-quality ramps, so they are a great option for pet parents on a budget.” - Colleen Demling for PetMD


How I Choose Steps for Dogs?

Weight Limit

The first thing to consider when buying steps for your dog is the weight limit. If your dog is on the smaller side, there will most likely not be a problem, but it’s always a good idea to check. If the steps are not designed to support the weight to your dog, they are most likely not going to last as long as they should. Moreover, putting too much weight on the steps that were not designed for that can cause dangerous accidents.

Design

When it comes to the design of dog steps, there are two sides of the story. First of all, if the steps are going to be inside your home, you’ll probably want something that fits in with the interior of your house. Luckily, some of these steps look really nice so it’s definitely possible to find something that will not clash with your interior design. It is also possible to find multi-functional dog steps that also offer additional storage space inside.

On the other hand, you’ll want to also make sure the steps are designed right for your dog. If the dog is small, you want the individual steps to not be too high (this is generally a good idea for dogs with mobility issues too). In addition to this, you’ll want each individual step to be deep enough to allow for comfortable climbing.

Safety Features

When it comes to dog steps, the most important thing for safety is that they stay in place. You want steps that are stable, and it’s a good idea to look for something with non-slip feet. In addition to this, it is important for the steps to be covered with a material that creates enough grip for your pooch’s paws not to slip around when climbing.


Final Verdict

Pet stairs are a great solution to make your home more accessible for your dog. They tend to fit in and look much more natural indoors than dog ramps. However, it’s also important to make sure the steps are safe and comfortable for your dog.

We both recommend the PetSafe 62460 Solvit PupSTEP Plus Pet Stairs and the Pet Gear PG9710LC Easy Step II Pet Stairs. These two meet all our preferences, and they are designed specifically for dogs. They are stable, durable, and easy to set up.

FAQ

Are stairs or a ramp better for dogs?

Both stairs and ramps can work reasonably well. Stairs tend to take up less room inside your home, but if you are looking for something portable, a ramp might work better. Moreover, dogs with extreme mobility issues might have an easier time climbing up a ramp or using the stairs. In all other cases, stairs are completely fine and will work as well as a ramp.

My dog is scared of stairs, will he like these?

Sometimes, dogs can be scared of stairs. This is usually caused by the large open space that surrounds stairs built for humans. The fear could also be caused by some past experience. However, with steps designed for dogs, it should be easy to get over the aversion to stairs. These steps are small, and if your dog doesn’t like them at first, just be patient and try to encourage them and offer treats for successful climbing.

Are dog stairs suitable for puppies?

Yes, dog stairs are suitable for puppies too. Since young puppies can be especially clumsy, do make sure that the stairs offer good grip for the paws and there is no space where your pup could fall through the stairs.

References

  1. Gilpatrick, J. November 29, 2017. “5 Stair Safety Tips for Dogs”. PetMD. Retrieved October 23, 2023. https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/5-stair-safety-tips-dogs
  2. Eckstein, S. “Dog Joint Health: Pain, Osteoarthritis, and Other Joint Problems”. FETCH by WebMD. Retrieved October 23, 2023. https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/features/dog-joint-health-pain-osteoarthritis-and-other-joint-problems#1
  3. Bocco, D. May 8, 2018. “Do You Need a Dog Ramp?”. PetMD. Retrieved October 23, 2023. https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/do-you-need-dog-ramp

Vedrana Nikolic


Vedrana Nikolić is Gentle Dog Trainers Canine Coach, Professional Writer, Anthropologist & dog lover.

With a Masters Degree in Semiotics & Bachelors Degree in Anthropology, studying the communication between animals and humans, Vedrana is able to use her expertise to analyse and review dog products and write informative posts on canine behaviour and training.

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