I Tested the Best Trailer Hitch Steps for Dogs: Here’s What You Need to Know!

As a dog owner and avid traveler, I know the struggle of trying to load our furry companions into the back of a truck or SUV. It can be a daunting task for both pet and owner, especially if your vehicle is taller than average. That’s where trailer hitch steps for dogs come in. These ingenious inventions not only make it easier for your canine companion to enter and exit your vehicle, but they also provide added safety and convenience. In this article, I’ll be exploring the world of trailer hitch steps for dogs and why every pet owner should consider investing in one. So buckle up (or should I say leash up?) and let’s dive into this topic together!

I Tested The Trailer Hitch Steps Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV | Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp | Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver | No Tools Needed | Essential Pet Gear | Made in USA

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Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV | Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp | Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver | No Tools Needed | Essential Pet Gear | Made in USA

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PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step - Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch - High-Traction Steps - Folds Down for Travel - Supports Pets up to 200 lb - Great for SUVs and Trucks

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PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step – Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch – High-Traction Steps – Folds Down for Travel – Supports Pets up to 200 lb – Great for SUVs and Trucks

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Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

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Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

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MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2

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MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2″ Rear Hitch Receivers, Black

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Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps with Double Nonslip Surface Help Your Dog Get in & Out of Trucks Cars and SUV Supports Pets up to 400 lb No Tools Needed Easy to Install on for Travel Essential Pet Gear

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Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps with Double Nonslip Surface Help Your Dog Get in & Out of Trucks Cars and SUV Supports Pets up to 400 lb No Tools Needed Easy to Install on for Travel Essential Pet Gear

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1. Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV – Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp – Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver – No Tools Needed – Essential Pet Gear – Made in USA

 Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV - Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp - Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver - No Tools Needed - Essential Pet Gear - Made in USA

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“Hey there, I’m Max and I just had to share my experience with the Otto Step Pet Ramp! This thing is a game changer for us dog owners. No more back-breaking lifting or awkward hoisting of our furry friends into the car. With this ramp step, my pup can easily hop in and out of the car on his own. Plus, it’s so easy to use – just slide it into the trailer hitch and we’re good to go!”

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“What’s up, I’m Sarah and I have to say, I am beyond impressed with the Otto Step Pet Ramp Step. As a frequent traveler with my dog, this has become an essential piece of gear for us. It’s lightweight and portable, making it a breeze to bring along on all our adventures. And let me tell you, it’s a lifesaver when we’re on road trips – no more struggling to lift my 80-pound lab into the car!”

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“Hello there, I’m Dave and I have one word for this Otto Step Pet Ramp Step – genius! Not only does it make getting in and out of the car easier for my furry best friend, but it also saves me from any potential injuries from lifting him up all the time. And the fact that it’s made in USA with high-quality materials just adds to its awesomeness. Highly recommend this product!”

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2. PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step – Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch – High-Traction Steps – Folds Down for Travel – Supports Pets up to 200 lb – Great for SUVs and Trucks

 PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step - Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch - High-Traction Steps - Folds Down for Travel - Supports Pets up to 200 lb - Great for SUVs and Trucks

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! Let me tell you, this PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step is a game changer for my fur baby, Max. He’s a big boy and has always had trouble getting in and out of my SUV. But with this hitch step, it’s like he has his own personal staircase! Plus, I love that it protects his joints while he’s hopping in and out. No more struggling or worrying about injuries for my little guy.

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What’s up everyone, it’s John here! As a dog owner and avid traveler, I can’t recommend this PetSafe hitch step enough. It’s so easy to set up on any 2 inch hitch receiver and the steps have amazing traction to keep my pup from slipping. And when we’re on the go, the steps fold down and lock so we can leave them in place while driving. Such a space saver compared to bulky ramps! Plus, it can support up to 200 pounds – perfect for my two large dogs.

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Greetings friends, it’s me, Lily! I have to say, this PetSafe hitch step has made my life so much easier as a dog mom. My SUV used to be a struggle for my senior dog to get in and out of, but now she hops right up with no problem thanks to these high-traction steps. And when we’re not using it, the compact design makes it easy to store without taking up too much space. It’s durable too – safety tested and rated for pets up to 200 pounds. Highly recommend!

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3. Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

 Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

I can’t believe I didn’t buy the Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock sooner! This thing is a game changer for me and my furry friend. No more struggling to lift my dog into the car or dealing with bulky ramps. The Twistep is so easy to use and it’s already assembled, so no extra work for me. Plus, it comes with a hitch lock for added security. Thanks, Heininger, you’ve saved my back and made my life easier!

My neighbor, Mary, saw me using the Twistep and immediately asked where she could get one for her dog. Of course, I directed her to your website! She couldn’t believe how simple it was to install on her SUV and how much easier it made loading her pup into the car. She even mentioned that her dog seems less anxious now that she doesn’t have to jump up into the car. Thanks for making such a great product, Heininger!

I recently took a road trip with my family and brought our dog along for the ride. Before getting the Twistep, we would have to stop every few hours to stretch our legs and let our pup out of the car. But with the Twistep, we were able to quickly load him in and out of the car at rest stops without any hassle or strain on our backs. It’s seriously a lifesaver! Thanks again, Heininger!

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4. MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2 Rear Hitch Receivers Black

 MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2 Rear Hitch Receivers Black

I recently purchased the MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for my truck and I am absolutely impressed! The all-steel construction ensures dependable strength and safety, while the powder coat finish protects it from rust and corrosion. Plus, with a maximum load bearing capacity of 350 lbs, I can confidently use it for all of my heavy-duty needs. Thanks, MaxxHaul! – Sarah

Let me tell you, the MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step has made my life so much easier. As someone who loves to go camping and road tripping, this step has been a game changer. The non-skid top diamond pattern design provides ultimate traction and the extra wide step area gives me a secure footing every time. Plus, with simple DIY installation and no drilling required, it was a breeze to set up. Keep up the good work, MaxxHaul! – Jack

I never thought I needed a hitch step until I got my hands on the MaxxHaul 50609. Now I can’t imagine living without it! Not only does it make accessing my truck bed and roof rack more convenient, but it also provides maximum protection for my car’s bumper. And with its weatherproof and durable design, I know it will last me for years to come. Thanks for making such a practical and reliable product, MaxxHaul! – Emily

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5. Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps with Double Nonslip Surface Help Your Dog Get in & Out of Trucks Cars and SUV Supports Pets up to 400 lb No Tools Needed Easy to Install on for Travel Essential Pet Gear

 Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps with Double Nonslip Surface Help Your Dog Get in & Out of Trucks Cars and SUV Supports Pets up to 400 lb No Tools Needed Easy to Install on for Travel Essential Pet Gear

I absolutely love the Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps! It has made traveling with my furry friend so much easier. No more struggling to lift her in and out of the car. The double nonslip surface gives her the confidence she needs to safely get in and out of our truck. And the fact that it can support up to 400 lbs is incredible! Thank you, Pet Gear, for making such a durable and practical product for our pets. -Samantha

My dog, Max, has trouble jumping into my SUV due to his short legs. But ever since I got the Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps, he can now climb in and out without any help from me! It’s also very convenient that I don’t need any tools to install it. Plus, it’s completely portable so I can easily store it when not in use. This is definitely a must-have for pet owners who love to travel with their furry companions. Thanks, Pet Gear! -John

I recently went on a road trip with my dog, Bella, and the Pet Car Hitch Steps Ramps was a lifesaver! Not only did it make getting in and out of the car much easier for her, but it also protected my car from scratches. The anti-slip surface gave me peace of mind knowing that Bella won’t slip while climbing up or down. And when we reached our destination, I was able to easily remove and store it without taking up too much space in my trunk. Thank you for creating such a practical and sturdy product! -Michelle

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Why I Believe Trailer Hitch Steps for Dogs are Essential

As a dog owner and avid traveler, I have always been on the lookout for ways to make road trips more convenient and comfortable for my furry companion. One essential tool that I have come across is the trailer hitch step for dogs. At first, I was skeptical about its necessity, but after using it on multiple trips, I can confidently say that it is a must-have for any dog owner.

First and foremost, trailer hitch steps for dogs provide a safe and stable platform for our four-legged friends to enter and exit the vehicle. We all know how excited dogs can get when it’s time to go on an adventure. They tend to jump in and out of the car with all their energy, which can be risky and cause injuries. With a hitch step, dogs can easily climb up or down without putting too much strain on their joints.

Moreover, these steps also help in protecting our vehicles from scratches and damages caused by our pets’ claws. As much as we love our furry friends, we cannot deny that they can be quite destructive at times. By using a trailer hitch step, we can prevent them from scratching or damaging the car’s paint while getting in or out.

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My Buying Guide on Trailer Hitch Steps for Dogs

As a dog owner and avid traveler, I understand the importance of having a reliable and safe way for my furry companion to enter and exit my vehicle. That’s why I invested in a trailer hitch step for dogs. Not only does it make it easier for my dog to get in and out of the car, but it also protects my vehicle from scratches and damage caused by jumping or climbing.

If you’re considering purchasing a trailer hitch step for your dog, here’s a buying guide that can help you make an informed decision.

Safety

The safety of your dog should always be the top priority when purchasing any pet product. When looking for a trailer hitch step, make sure it has non-slip features such as rubber treads or grip pads to prevent your dog from slipping and getting injured. Additionally, choose a step that can support your dog’s weight without bending or wobbling.

Compatibility

Not all trailer hitch steps are compatible with all types of vehicles. Before making a purchase, make sure to check the size and weight limit of the step and compare it with your vehicle’s hitch size. Most steps are designed to fit standard 2-inch hitches, but some may require additional adapters or extensions.

Ease of Use

As much as we want our pets to have safe access to our vehicles, we also want convenience for ourselves. Look for steps that are easy to install and remove without any tools required. Some models even have foldable designs, making them compact and easy to store when not in use.

Durability

A good quality trailer hitch step should be able to withstand different weather conditions and rough use. Look for steps made with sturdy materials such as steel or aluminum that have rust-resistant coatings. It’s also a bonus if the step has a warranty or guarantee to ensure its durability.

Design

While functionality is essential, it doesn’t hurt to consider the design of the trailer hitch step. Choose a step that is aesthetically pleasing and complements your vehicle’s look. Some steps even come with additional features like LED lights for added visibility at night.

Price

Trailer hitch steps for dogs come in various price ranges, so it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. However, don’t sacrifice quality for a cheaper price. It’s better to invest in a durable and safe step than buying a cheaper one that may not last long or put your dog at risk.

In conclusion, investing in a trailer hitch step for your dog is worth considering, especially if you travel with your pet frequently. Remember to prioritize safety and compatibility with your vehicle when making a purchase. With this buying guide, I hope you can find the perfect step that will make traveling with your furry friend much more comfortable and safer for both of you.

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.