Ramp Training

Teaching our greyhounds to use a ramp is a fantastic way to protect their joints and keep them comfortable when getting in and out of the car.

When we introduce a ramp, our focus is always on helping our dog feel safe, confident, and comfortable at every step. We take things slowly, keep it positive, and let them progress at their own pace.

Please keep in mind that the star of these videos, Frazier, was in his early days of fostering with us. The first videos were taken while he was still getting to know us, and he developed this skill beautifully in just a matter of weeks.

We keep training sessions short, light, and rewarding, and if our dog ever seems unsure, we simply go back a step and rebuild their confidence.

Step 1: Introduction to the Ramp

We start by introducing the ramp in a quiet, familiar area.

Letting our greyhound explore the ramp freely. We encourage them with gentle praise, treats, or toys—whatever motivates them most.

There is no pressure for them to step on it at this stage. The goal is simply for them to feel comfortable around it.

✅ Tip: Reward curiosity—looking at, sniffing, or moving towards the ramp are all great first steps.

Step 3: Standing & Walking on the Ramp (Flat)

As our dog becomes more comfortable stepping onto the ramp, we begin building up to them standing fully on it and walking across.

At this stage, we keep the ramp flat and focus on slow, relaxed movement. We allow our dog to move at their own pace, rewarding them as they gain confidence on the surface.

✅ Tip: We watch for calm, comfortable movement—if things feel unsure or rushed, we slow it down and build confidence gradually.

Step 5: Gradually Increasing the Angle

As our dog becomes more comfortable using the ramp on a slight incline, we gradually begin increasing the height over time.

At this stage, we take things slowly, only raising the ramp when our dog is relaxed and confident. If they show any hesitation, we simply return to a lower height and allow them to rebuild their confidence.

✅ Tip: We let our dog guide the pace—progress should feel easy and comfortable, not rushed.

FINISH ON A POSITIVE

We keep training sessions short and positive
We always work at our dog’s pace
We prioritise safety and stability of the ramp
We’re happy to go back a step anytime our dog needs it

The goal is a greyhound who feels confident, safe, and happy using the ramp—making car travel easier for both of us.

If our dog becomes distracted or loses interest during the session we drop back to 'Touch' so that we both finish on a positive and keep building on those positive vibes

Step 2: Stepping onto the Ramp

Once our dog is comfortable around the ramp, we begin gently encouraging them to step onto it.

At this stage, this might just be one or two paws, and we’re happy to take it slowly. We allow them to step on and off in their own time, without any pressure, so they can build confidence with the surface.

✅ Tip: We reward curiosity and effort—any step towards or onto the ramp is a great start.

Step 4: Adding a Slight Angle

As our dog becomes more comfortable walking across the ramp, we begin introducing a very slight incline.

At this stage, we keep the angle low and stable, allowing our dog to move up and down at their own pace. We stay close and gently guide them if needed, helping them feel safe as the ramp begins to feel a little different.

✅ Tip: We take our time at this step—any change in angle can feel new, so we go gently and keep the experience positive.

Step 6: Full Height (Car Entry & Exit)

As our dog becomes confident with the ramp at different heights, we bring it up to the full height of the car.

At this stage, we encourage them to walk up into the car and back down again, staying close and supportive. If needed, we gently guide and assist them so they can move confidently and feel safe using the ramp. We keep things calm and rewarding, helping them build confidence in both directions.

✅ Tip: With time, support, and positive experiences, we see Frazier continue to grow in confidence using the ramp in both directions. Backing up to a curb can also help reduce the angle while he’s still building confidence.