Undoubtedly, dog ramps are essential if you have a pet. You may need an above-ground dog ramp for your puppy to go through several places.
But a dog ramp can also be costly enough to purchase. It will be better if you can make a ramp all by yourself for your pet.
In this article, we are sharing how to make a DIY dog ramp that will be both efficient and cheap.
Materials and Tools
To make a dog ramp, there is some certain material that you will need. Here we have shortlisted them below for you:
- A 1×2 x 8′ board
- A 3/4″ plywood, 15-3/4″ x 47-3/4″
- Some small hinges
- A 3/4″ dowel rod at least 14″ long
- A wood glue
- A primer and paint
- A paintbrush
- A carpet 49″ x 17″
- A 1-1/2″ screws
- A nail gun with 1-1/4″ nails
- A drill
- A circular saw or table saw
- A jigsaw
- A sander and sandpaper
- A spray adhesive
After collecting all the materials, you have to follow certain steps to make a dog ramp.
Construct the Platform
First, you have to fasten the two ends (15-3/4″) onto the ends of the plywood using 2″ nails. Secondly, before starting nailing, apply the glue on all contact points. Now, you have to set the pieces of flush on the top and the ends of the plywood. After that, glue the long sides (49-1/4″) along with the short sides to the plywood. You should make sure that the ends are flush and you are nailing into the 1×3 ends along with the plywood.
Secure the Inset Piece
The inset piece has to attach to the platform’s bottom. It will help to keep the hinges that attach the framework to the platform in place. Now, you have to use 1-1/4″ nails to secure the inset section (the remaining 1x3x15-3/4″ board) within the box’s underside and against one edge. Nail the 1×3 into the side sections with 2″ screws.
Build the Base
For building the base, you have to nail the platform’s foundation in the same manner as the platform. But you should do it without the plywood. Allow the long sides (37″) to stand near the short sides (14″) on each edge. After that, by using a sander, sand all of the components.
Construct the Ramp Legs
For creating the legs, you have to apart the 15-1/2″ in two. Now, you will get two 3/4″ x 3/4″ x 15-1/2″ pieces. Now, place the dowel rod on the edge of the leg. You can adjust it to the bottom. After that, focus on the leg and mark a half-circle (the dowel’s curve). You have to repeat the same thing with the other three edges of the two legs. Round over the edges to the shaped mark with a sander. In the middle of one of the four radius points, insert a3/16″ hole.
Attaching the Legs
To attach the legs, at first, adjust the platform and insert the meter stick inside the frame so that you can get the correct remarks. Now, without the flat 1×3 inset component, secure a spot 22-1/2″ on the surface. Just below the leg, insert a thin piece of cardboard or folding paper to provide some protection. Just lightly, for the time being, screw the legs in at these levels.
Mark the Location of the Notches in the Base
After attaching the legs, you have to measure down 1″ from the top of the base frame and sketch a 2′ long line with a straight edge or level at that point. Measure down the line with the measuring tape attaching it to the end. Now, repeat the same thing on the opposite side.
Cut Holes for Notches
In the first mark, drill an a3/4″ paddle bit hole. When the bit’s point has passed to the other line, you should stop right then. Continue digging the remaining spaces before the endpoint. When you’ve finished drilling these four holes, turn the base over and resume drilling the gaps on the other edge. This process keeps the wood from cracking and blowing out.
Attach Base to Platform
To attach the base, at first, place the platform upside down and the foundation inside, with the drilled holes facing down. After that, you have to place the hinges on the bottom of the inset portion. Align the hinge holes with a pencil. Now, take the framework and insert the hinges into the inset portion. Then, replace the frame and finish assembling the other side of the hinges.
Mark Angles on Notches
You might want an assistant for this step to help you out. At first, you have to shift the ramp right-side up. You may ask your assistant to support the framework as the base remains flat on the work table. Now cut the notches into shapes. You need to add the dowel legs in this position.
Give a Finishing
As your ramp is ready, give it a finishing. You can color the ramp according to your choice. To make the ramp more stable, you may add a carpet and handle into it.
DIY dog ramps are way cheaper than the available ones in the market. Go through our article completely to make one for your pet.