Dog Ramp Treads: How to Choose a Non-Slip Surface

For a dog ramp, the best non-slip tread is one your dog can grip while walking both up and down: textured rubber is a practical choice because it offers traction without the roughness of coarse grit. A low-pile carpet tread can also work, especially for dogs that dislike hard surfaces, but it needs to stay firmly attached and dry between uses.

For an outdoor ramp that may get wet, look for a textured surface that sheds water and can be cleaned without loosening its attachment. On a ramp used mainly indoors or in a covered area, a secure carpet-style tread may feel comfortable underfoot, though trapped moisture and dirt make it a less convenient choice for frequent outdoor use.

Choose treads or strips wide enough to cover the path your dog actually takes, and space separate strips so a paw cannot regularly land on a slick gap. Keep the surface flat, with no curled edges or raised fasteners that could catch a nail; for a portable ramp, make sure added material does not interfere with folding or storage.

Press each tread or strip down and look for movement, lifting edges, or slick spots, then guide your dog over the ramp slowly while it is stable and supported. Clean off mud, oil, and loose grit as they build up, and replace worn or peeling pieces rather than layering new strips over an insecure surface.

If you are choosing a complete ramp rather than adding treads to one you own, our guide to safer SUV and truck loading can help you think through the setup. Our team also offers the Car Dog Ramp “Tailgate” by Owleys; whichever ramp you use, evaluate its walking surface, slope, and stability with your own dog before making it part of your routine.

The Travel Buddy Mk. II Dog Hammock works alongside the ramp and keeps the back seat covered, so shed dog fur lands on a washable surface instead of the car upholstery.