How to build a dog ramp

This step by step diy woodworking project is about how to build a dog ramp. If you want to learn more about building a dog ramp, we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in the article. Invest in high-quality materials and plan everything from the very beginning, if you want to get the job done in a professional manner. Check if the lumber is perfectly-straight and in a very good visual condition.

Adjust the size and the shape of the dog ramp to suit your needs. Don’t forget to take a look over the related plans, as there are many other projects that you could build for your pets and to enhance the look of your backyard. Always work with attention and with good judgement, as there are many things that could go wrong. In addition, a proper planning will keep the costs under control.

Building a dog ramp can be built in several ways, so make sure you choose the alternative that suit your needs best. Cut the components at the right size and assemble them together with galvanized screws and waterproof glue. Check if the corners are right-angled and cover the structure with carpet, if you want to get a professional result. Ask a friend to assist you with the project, especially if you don’t have expertise in the field. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

Building a dog ramp

Materials

A – 2 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 41 1/4″ long, 1 piece – 9 3/4″ long BASE
B – 2 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 40″ long SUPPORTS
C – 2 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 14 3/4″ long, 1 piece – 9 3/4″ long LEGS
D – 2 pieces of 1×1 lumber – 43 3/4″ long CLEATS
E – 1 piece of 3/4″ plywood – 44″x9 3/4″ long RAMP
F – carpet COVER

1 piece of 1×1 lumber – 8 ft
3 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 8 ft
1 piece of 3/4″ plywood – 1’x4′
2 1/2″ screws
1 1/4″ screws
glue, stain
wood filler

Tools

Safety gloves, glasses
Miter saw, jigsaw
Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
Drill machinery and drill bits

Tips

Apply several coats of wood stain to the wooden components
Fill the holes with wood filler and smooth the surface

Time

One Day

Building a dog ramp

Building the bottom supports

The first step of the woodworking project is to build the bottom supports, by using 1×3 lumber. Make the angle cuts after taking accurate measurements and smoothing the edges with a piece of sandpaper.

Building the legs

Continue the woodworking project by making the front legs that will support the dog ramp. Cut the 1×3 components at the right size and assemble them together with galvanized screws. Check if the corners are right-angled and drill pilot holes before inserting the 1 1/4″ galvanized screws.

Building the frame

Building the frame of the dog ramp is the next step of the project. Align the components with attention and secure the components together with galvanized screws and waterproof glue. Plumb the legs with a spirit level before inserting the screws.

Installing the ramp supports

Next, build the side rails, making sure you cut both ends at the right angles. Drill pilot holes and insert the screws to get the job done in a professional manner. Add waterproof glue to enhance the rigidity of the joints.

Attaching the cleats

Cut two pieces of 1×1 lumber and attach them to both sides of the rails, as shown in the plans. Align the cleats at both ends and secure them into place with galvanized screws. Add glue to enhance the rigidity of the structure.

Installing the ramp

One of the last steps of the project is to attach the 3/4″ plywood ramp. Cut the plywood sheet at the right size and fit it inside the frame, before locking it into place with galvanized screws. Make sure there are no gaps between the components, if you want to get the job done in a professional manner.

How to build a dog ramp

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood filler and let it to dry out for several hours. Afterwards, smooth the wooden surface with fine-grit sandpaper and vacuum the residues.

Thank you for reading our project about how to build a dog ramp and we recommend you to check out the rest of the projects. Don’t forget to share our projects with your friends and LIKE us, by using the social media widgets. SUBSCRIBE if you want to be the first that gets our latest articles.

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