Do you want to bring your dog into the roof tent but don't know how it should get up? You are not alone. It is one of the most common questions we get from roof tent users with dogs — and the reason why we have now developed a new dog ramp for roof tents.
– The ramp feels stable, has a good grip and is also easy to both mount and remove. For us, it has made a big difference and we gladly recommend it to other dog owners looking for a smooth, safe, and user-friendly solution, says Agnieszka "Agge" Guzik whose dogs have been the test patrol for the new dog ramp.
> Here you can buy the dog ramp
Why you should have a dog ramp for your roof tent
Bringing your dog up into the roof tent is super cozy. But actually getting the dog up there is not always the easiest, especially if the dog is heavier. Balancing on the ladder while carrying a dog that can suddenly jerk can turn into a terrifying circus act.
Our self-developed dog ramp for roof tents solves this problem in a simple and safe way. The ramp rolls out over the roof tent ladder and gives the dog a stable walking surface with a good grip for the paws.
Meet the dog ramp test patrol
During the development work, we tested several different versions of the dog ramp on various dogs in our Showroom in Stockholm until we finally found a model we are really satisfied with.
But we also wanted a test patrol from the outside. And here they are: Dixie, Sparrow and Willow — all three American Wolfdogs.
Their owners Agge and Marcin Guzik have had roof tents for several years and always take the dogs on adventures. Previously, they have tested a couple of other types of dog stairs/ramps but haven't found one that really worked.
– We are really satisfied and feel that this dog ramp works best for our dogs. It is clear that they feel safe with it and that it is easier for them to go both up and down without hesitation.
How to introduce your dog to the dog ramp — step by step
All dogs are different and take different amounts of time to get used to a dog ramp. Some run up and down immediately, others need longer training to dare.
– Our main tip to others considering a dog ramp is to be patient and make the introduction positive and pressure-free. Let the dog take the time it needs to build confidence and use praise and rewards to create a positive experience. With the right introduction, a dog ramp can become a fantastic aid for both dog and owner, says Agge
Here Agge and Marcin share their approach to teaching their dogs to use the new dog ramp.
Step 1 — Let the dog get familiar with the ramp on the ground
Lay out the dog ramp on the ground and let the dog sniff and explore it without pressure. No height difference, no stress. Reward every time the dog shows interest or steps on it. Practice walking on the dog ramp while it lies on the ground.
Step 2 — Mount the ramp and repeat
Attach the dog ramp to the roof tent ladder and let the dog sniff and get familiar again. Reward when it shows interest. Since Willow, Sparrow, and Dixie already love sleeping in the roof tent, they went up immediately — and of course got praise for it.
Step 3 — Short training sessions
The next day: do a few short sessions where the dog goes up and down a few times. No stress, just positive reinforcement. Continue this until it sticks.
On the third day, the commands "up" and "down" were enough and rewarded afterwards. Since then, Dixie, Sparrow, and Willow go up and down on their own.
– My main tip is to be patient and make the introduction positive and pressure-free. Let the dog take the time it needs to build confidence."
How the dog ramp for roof tents works
The dog ramp is attached with a metal hook to the top step of the roof tent ladder. Velcro fasteners along the entire ramp keep it securely in place. Extend the ladder as far as possible to get the flattest angle possible — this makes it easier for the dog.
The dog ramp fits best for regular passenger cars; with a higher car, the angle of the ladder will probably be too steep for most dogs.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 260 x 45 cm
- Surface: Artificial grass with a grippy surface for the paws
- Weight: 4.2 kg
- Color: Gray
- Fits most roof tent ladders
- Rolls up and comes with a bag for easy storage and transport
Where to buy the dog ramp
You can buy the dog ramp for roof tents directly on our website, click here to go to the product page.
Frequently asked questions about the dog ramp for roof tents
Does the dog ramp fit my car?
The dog ramp fits most roof tent ladders. The angle you get depends on how high the car is — extend the ladder fully for the flattest possible angle if your dog finds it scary. In the pictures, you see it mounted on a 230 cm long ladder extended fully on a Volvo XC60.
What size dog fits?
The dog ramp fits both small and large dogs.
How long does it take to teach the dog to use the ramp?
It varies. Agge and Marcin had their dogs using it within three days with positive training. Be patient — all dogs learn at their own pace.
Can I use the dog ramp with all roof tent brands?
Yes, the ramp fits most roof tent ladders regardless of brand.
