How to Build Wide Steps for Dogs

Small or elderly dogs can benefit from wide steps in some circumstances.

Small or elderly dogs often have trouble reaching their favorite napping spots. Small dogs just don't have the height to climb on the bed or couch, and older pets often suffer from arthritis that makes getting on furniture difficult. Pet steps can help your four-legged friend navigate your home, and can be made with a few affordable items.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Foam
• Marker
• Serrated knife
• Spray-on glue
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Straight pins

Instructions

1. Select the proper type of foam for your stairs. Smaller dogs, such as toy poodles, can use lighter foams such as high-density foams, while larger breeds need a thicker foam such as rebond or closed-cell foam.

2. Lay the foam on a flat work bench and measure out three stair sections. The largest step should be 6 inches tall, 24 inches long, and 18 inches wide; the second step should be 6 inches tall, 18 inches long, and 14 inches wide, and the smallest step 6 inches tall, 12 inches long and 10 inches wide. This stair width is acceptable for medium-sized dogs; for larger breeds, add 6 inches to the width, and for smaller breeds, subtract 2 inches.

3. Cut out the foam sections with a serrated knife. The serrated edge of the blade cuts through the foam without tearing it.

4. Set the largest section of foam on the work bench, and coat the surface with a thin layer of spray-on glue. Let the glue set for 30 seconds to become tacky, and place the second step on top of the glue. Align the edge of foam sections along one lone side to form a step. Let the steps dry for one hour.

5. Add glue to the top of the second step, and add the smallest section of foam to form a set of three steps. Press down firmly on the steps to form a tight seal, and allow to dry overnight. The steps may seem very wide, but this extra width provides stability and security for weak or elderly dogs.

6. Coat the entire surface of the steps with glue, and cover with heavy fabric. Start at the top of the smallest stair, pressing the fabric firmly against the surface. Smooth the fabric down against the foam with your hands, adding more glue if necessary. Work your way down the second and third steps, trimming away all but three inches of excess fabric once you reach the bottom.

7. Turn the stairs upside down and add a layer of glue to the bottom edge of the largest stair. Fold the fabric down around the edge, and glue it to the underside of the steps. Hold the fabric in place with straight pins spaced evenly around the edge of the step, and allow the glue to dry for at least 48 hours before use.

Tips & Warnings

• Heavy materials, such as cotton or canvas, work well as stair coverings. Heavy fabrics provide enough traction to keep your dog from slipping off the steps.

• Don't leave the straight pins in the steps. Remove them before allowing your dog to climb the steps.

References

• Foam Online: Types of Foam
• Kansas State Univerity: A Cheap Lightweight Step for Dogs