As dogs age the simple act of jumping onto the bed becomes increasingly painful and risky. The impact of landing after a jump puts enormous stress on arthritic hips, knees, and elbows — and a missed jump can result in a painful fall. Yet most senior dogs still desperately want to sleep near or on the bed with their owners — and that bond and closeness is genuinely beneficial for both dog and owner. Dog steps for the bed provide a safe, gentle pathway that keeps your senior dog connected to their favourite sleeping spot without any of the joint-damaging impact of jumping.
Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through our links we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Steps vs Ramps — Which Is Better for Bed Access?
Both steps and ramps help senior dogs access elevated surfaces but they suit different dogs. Steps work well for dogs who can still lift their legs deliberately — the stepped surface is familiar and intuitive. Ramps provide a continuous incline with no leg-lifting required — better for dogs with significant hip or knee arthritis. For most senior dogs with mild to moderate mobility limitations foam steps are the most practical and space-efficient solution for bedroom use.
Our Top Pick
Curved Pet Steps with Leakproof Cover — High Density Foam — Best Overall
These high density foam pet steps tick every important box for senior dog bedroom use. The curved design follows the natural arc of a dog’s climbing motion — more comfortable and intuitive than sharp-angled steps for arthritic dogs. The high density foam provides firm, stable footing that does not compress under the dog’s weight — unlike cheaper foam steps that wobble and shift. The leakproof cover is essential for senior dogs with any degree of incontinence, and the lightweight construction at 40 x 57 x 40cm makes it easy to reposition between the bed and sofa as needed. The neutral beige colour suits most bedroom aesthetics.
Best for: Small to medium senior dogs needing bed or sofa access
Key features: Curved design, high density foam, leakproof cover, lightweight
Size: 40 x 57 x 40cm — 3 steps
Pros:
- Curved design — natural comfortable climbing motion
- High density foam — firm stable footing that does not compress
- Leakproof cover — essential for senior dogs
- Lightweight — easy to reposition between rooms
- Neutral beige — suits most home aesthetics
- 3 steps — appropriate height for most beds and sofas
Cons:
- Suitable for small to medium dogs — check weight capacity for larger breeds
- Some dogs need patient introduction before using confidently
Check price on Amazon Australia →
How to Train Your Senior Dog to Use Bed Steps
Place the steps next to the bed and let your dog sniff and investigate them at floor level with no pressure. Place treats on each step and encourage your dog to climb up slowly. Guide them back down the same way — never let them jump off the side. Repeat several times per day using high value treats until your dog climbs confidently without hesitation. Most senior dogs learn within 3 to 5 days. Always reward coming down the steps as well as going up — the descent is where most injuries occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stop my senior dog from sleeping on the bed?
There is no medical reason to ban a senior dog from the bed — and the closeness and warmth are genuinely beneficial for anxious aging dogs. The key is providing safe access via steps or a ramp rather than allowing jumping. A senior dog that sleeps near their owner often shows reduced anxiety and better sleep quality.
My senior dog refuses to use the steps — what should I do?
Never force your dog onto the steps. If treat luring does not work after several days try placing a familiar blanket on the steps to make the surface more appealing. Some dogs respond better to following another dog up the steps — if you have a second dog demonstrate the steps with them first.
Our Verdict
For small to medium senior dogs the curved high density foam pet steps are the most practical and comfortable bed access solution available. They keep your senior dog safely connected to their favourite sleeping spot while eliminating the joint-damaging impact of jumping — a simple purchase that protects your dog’s joints every single night.
Silver Muzzle Pets is a participant in the Amazon Associates Programme. We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.