Dog Ramp or hitch step recommendations?

[LALexusLust]

I posted a couple weeks back about possibly buying an LX 450... Well I got it on Monday and I'm really happy. I'll post pics this weekend... Maybe tomorrow if the smog test and DMV don't take all day.

The only issue I've had is getting dogs into the back without picking them up. This would not be a big deal, but I'm a dog walker, so it's something I deal with constantly.

I got a pet ramp from PetCo, but it's a cheap POS. It's not very wide and flexes and moves around on the bumper and ground, which does not inspire the dogs' confidence, so they won't use it.

I'm wondering if anyone has had a better experience than me with a specific brand of ramp or maybe a hitch step big enough for dogs to walk on to and then step up into the truck? Thanks.

 

[robertaleon]

We have a 10 yr old lab and can't jump like she used to. IMHO the hitch step will not work well on an 80 with the split tailgate; they do work well with gates that swing from side (LR Disco II - guys don't hurt me), or above (Expeditions, etc). I use those as a reference since I've owned those with dogs. You may try a dirtbike load ramp that's made of aluminum but may spook some dogs. That's how our dog gets in a Dodge 2500 4X4 bed. HB for like $50-$500 - Ramps - Automotive & Motorcycle

 

[plutonius]

I used a Solvit XL telescoping ramp for my 110 lb Lab, and it worked great for him & also doubles as a ramp for loading & unloading heavy wheelbarrow tools and such. My dog walker has borrowed it a few times and had no problems with getting his dogs in & out of his truck (F250 or something like that).

 

[Offroads4x4]

As mentioned above
Harbor freight has some loading ramps you may want to look at for ATV's.

You could also get their hitch cargo basket and add a ramp to one side like a wheel chair ramp. This could double as a extra cargo basket as well as a drop down ramp for you dog to get in the back.

 

[LALexusLust]

Perfect. I think the 6' folding aluminum guy from Harbor Freight will be perfect. Appreciate the responses. This board is awesome.