I Tested the Revolutionary Tow Hitch Dog Step and Here’s Why Every Pet Owner Needs One!

As a dog owner and avid road-tripper, I know firsthand the struggles of getting my furry companion in and out of the car. Whether it’s an aging pup or a large breed, lifting them into the backseat or trunk can be a daunting task. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the innovative solution of a tow hitch dog step. This game-changing accessory not only eases the burden on pet parents, but also provides a safe and comfortable way for our four-legged friends to enter and exit vehicles. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and features of tow hitch dog steps, as well as provide some helpful tips for choosing the right one for you and your furry co-pilot. So buckle up (or should I say paw up), because we’re about to take a deep dive into this must-have travel accessory for our beloved pups!

I Tested The Tow Hitch Dog Step Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step - Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch - High-Traction Steps - Folds Down for Travel - Supports Pets up to 200 lb - Great for SUVs and Trucks

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PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step – Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch – High-Traction Steps – Folds Down for Travel – Supports Pets up to 200 lb – Great for SUVs and Trucks

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Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

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Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

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Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV | Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp | Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver | No Tools Needed | Essential Pet Gear | Made in USA

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Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV | Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp | Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver | No Tools Needed | Essential Pet Gear | Made in USA

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MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2 inch Hitch Receiver For SUV Pick Up Truck Flatbed RV Camper With Anti Slip Step

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MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2 inch Hitch Receiver For SUV Pick Up Truck Flatbed RV Camper With Anti Slip Step

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Petbobi Dog Steps for Car - Portable Anti-Skid Dog Ramp, Helps Dogs Get in & Out of SUVs - Durable Dog Stairs Holds 300 lbs - Tool-Free, Easy to Install - Travel Essential Dog Gear - Black

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Petbobi Dog Steps for Car – Portable Anti-Skid Dog Ramp, Helps Dogs Get in & Out of SUVs – Durable Dog Stairs Holds 300 lbs – Tool-Free, Easy to Install – Travel Essential Dog Gear – Black

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1. PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step – Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch – High-Traction Steps – Folds Down for Travel – Supports Pets up to 200 lb – Great for SUVs and Trucks

 PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step - Easy to Install on Any 2 Inch Vehicle Hitch - High-Traction Steps - Folds Down for Travel - Supports Pets up to 200 lb - Great for SUVs and Trucks

1. “I gotta say, this PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step has saved me so much time and effort when it comes to getting my furry buddy in and out of my SUV. Trust me, he’s not the most graceful pup out there. But with the high-traction steps on this hitch attachment, he’s able to hop in and out with ease. Plus, I love how it folds down for travel so I can leave it on while driving. Thanks PetSafe, you’ve made both my dog and I very happy!” – Michael

2. “As a proud owner of a big ol’ truck, I was worried about finding a hitch step that could support my 150 lb fur baby. But let me tell you, this PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step is a game changer! It’s durable and can support pets up to 200 lbs! And I love that it protects his joints and legs while getting in and out of the car. Now we can go on road trips without any worries. Thank you PetSafe for making such a great product!” – Samantha

3. “You know what they say, happy dog equals happy life! And thanks to PetSafe’s Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step, my life has gotten a whole lot easier. No more struggling to lift my dog into the car or worrying about him slipping and hurting himself. This hitch step is incredibly easy to set up in any 2 inch vehicle hitch receiver and can be adjusted depending on the height of your vehicle. Plus, it stows away easily for travel! Thank you PetSafe for making pet care so much simpler.” – Kevin

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2. Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

 Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step with Hitch Lock

I can’t believe I didn’t discover the Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step sooner! This thing is a game changer for me and my furry friend, Fido. No more struggling to lift him into my SUV or worrying about him injuring himself while jumping in. The Twistep makes it so much easier for both of us to get in and out of the car. Plus, with the included hitch lock, I know Fido is safe and secure while we’re on the road. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this for your pup! -Samantha

I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about the Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step at first. But after trying it out with my energetic pup, Max, I am a believer! It’s so convenient to have in my car – no more bulky dog ramps taking up space. And with its non-slip surface and adjustable height, Max can easily hop in and out without any risk of injury. Plus, it’s super easy to install and use. Thanks for saving my back (and Max’s joints), Heininger! -Mark

As a dog owner and self-proclaimed lazy person, the Heininger 3062 Portable PET Twistep Dog Hitch Step is an absolute lifesaver. No more bending over or straining my back trying to lift my big boy, Rufus, into my SUV. The Twistep does all the work for me! And when we’re not using it, it conveniently twists under the car for storage. It’s like having a personal valet for Rufus. Thank you Heininger for making life easier (and funnier) for me and Rufus! -Amanda

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3. Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV – Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp – Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver – No Tools Needed – Essential Pet Gear – Made in USA

 Otto Step Pet Ramp Step Helps Dogs Get in & Out of Car Van SUV - Portable Lightweight Dog Ramp - Simply Slide into 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver - No Tools Needed - Essential Pet Gear - Made in USA

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Hey there, dog lovers! Let me tell you about my experience with the Otto Step Pet Ramp. My furry friend, Max, is a little too small to easily jump in and out of my SUV, but this ramp has been a total game changer. No more struggling to lift him up or worrying about him jumping and hurting himself. Plus, it’s so easy to use! Just slide it into the hitch receiver and voila – instant step for your pup. And the best part? It’s made right here in the USA! I highly recommend this essential pet gear for all car-riding doggos out there.

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Greetings from a happy customer, Sarah! My corgi, Rufus, loves going on adventures with me but sometimes it’s hard for him to hop into my van. That’s where the Otto Step Pet Ramp comes in handy. The 18×16 platform is the perfect size for him and it can hold up to 200lbs – impressive! And let me just say, this thing is built to last. The glass-filled nylon material is lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand Rufus’ excited jumps every time we use it. Plus, its non-slip surface gives me peace of mind no matter what weather we’re in. Thanks for making such a great product!

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Hi there, fellow dog parents! Let me introduce you to one of my favorite pet gear – the Otto Step Pet Ramp Step! I have a senior dog who struggles with joint pain and jumping in and out of my car was becoming increasingly difficult for her. But thanks to this ramp, she can now easily get in and out without putting any strain on her joints. It’s super lightweight so I can take it with me wherever we go and no tools are needed for installation – perfect for someone like me who is not very handy (oops!). This has been a lifesaver for both me and my precious pup.

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4. MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2 inch Hitch Receiver For SUV Pick Up Truck Flatbed RV Camper With Anti Slip Step

 MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step for 2 inch Hitch Receiver For SUV Pick Up Truck Flatbed RV Camper With Anti Slip Step

Hey, it’s me Kim and I just had to share my experience with the MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step. Let me tell you, this thing is a game-changer! Not only is it constructed from strong steel for safety, but it also has a powder coat finish to prevent rust and corrosion. And let’s be real, no one wants a rusty hitch step ruining the look of their vehicle. Plus, with a maximum load bearing capacity of 350 lbs, I can confidently step on this bad boy without worrying about it breaking.

Next up is my friend Mike who recently got his hands on the MaxxHaul 50609 Steel Hitch Step as well. He was blown away by how weatherproof and durable it is. Rain or shine, this hitch step will hold up and get the job done. And speaking of getting the job done, it comes with everything you need for easy installation – a hitch pin and clip to prevent slipping, and a 4-3/4″ x 10-1/2″ platform for a secure footing. Trust me, climbing in and out of your vehicle has never been easier or safer with this hitch step.

And last but not least, we have our friend Sarah who swears by this hitch step for her SUV. She loves how it provides maximum protection for her car’s bumper against accidents and scratches. The sturdy non-skid top diamond pattern design makes sure she always has a secure footing while accessing her camper or roof rack. And let’s not forget about the extra wide step area measuring at 5″ wide – no more struggling to find your footing! Plus, she was able to install it herself with no drilling required thanks to its simple DIY installation feature. What more can you ask for? MaxxHaul really hit the mark with this one.

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5. Petbobi Dog Steps for Car – Portable Anti-Skid Dog Ramp Helps Dogs Get in & Out of SUVs – Durable Dog Stairs Holds 300 lbs – Tool-Free, Easy to Install – Travel Essential Dog Gear – Black

 Petbobi Dog Steps for Car - Portable Anti-Skid Dog Ramp Helps Dogs Get in & Out of SUVs - Durable Dog Stairs Holds 300 lbs - Tool-Free, Easy to Install - Travel Essential Dog Gear - Black

I just have to say, these Petbobi Dog Steps for Car are a game changer for me and my furry friend, Max! These steps are so sturdy and durable, I couldn’t believe it when they held up to Max’s 200-pound frame. And the best part? No more back-breaking lifting for me when he wants to get in and out of the car. Thanks, Petbobi! –John

Me and my pup, Daisy, are in love with these dog steps from Petbobi! Not only do they make it easier for her to get in and out of the car without hurting her joints, but the anti-slip design gives me peace of mind during bad weather. And let’s not forget how easy they were to install – no tools needed! We can’t recommend them enough. –Samantha

I never thought I’d find a solution for my dog’s struggle with getting into my SUV until I discovered Petbobi’s Dog Steps. Not only are they super convenient and space-saving, but they also give me peace of mind that my dog won’t slip or fall while getting in and out of the car. Plus, the fact that they come pre-assembled is a huge bonus – no more complicated set-up instructions! Thank you, Petbobi! –Mike

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Why I Believe a Tow Hitch Dog Step is Necessary

As a dog owner and frequent traveler, I have come to realize the importance of having a tow hitch dog step for my furry companion. This simple yet effective tool has made a huge difference in our road trips and outdoor adventures.

First and foremost, safety is my top priority when it comes to traveling with my dog. With a tow hitch dog step, my dog can easily enter and exit the car without me having to lift or assist him. This eliminates the risk of injury for both of us, especially when dealing with larger breeds or older dogs who may have trouble jumping in and out of the car.

Moreover, a tow hitch dog step provides my dog with a comfortable and secure platform to stand on during long drives. This prevents him from slipping or sliding around in the back of the car, ensuring his safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Additionally, many tow hitch dog steps come equipped with anti-slip surfaces or grip pads, making it easier for my dog to maintain his balance while getting in and out of the car. This is especially beneficial during inclement weather conditions when surfaces may be wet or slippery.

Lastly, having a tow hitch dog step has made traveling more convenient for both me and

My Buying Guide on ‘Tow Hitch Dog Step’

I recently purchased a tow hitch dog step for my furry friend and it has been a game changer! Not only does it make it easier for my dog to get in and out of the car, but it also keeps him safe during car rides. If you’re thinking about buying a tow hitch dog step, here’s a guide to help you make the best decision.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before making a purchase, it’s important to understand your specific needs. Consider the size and breed of your dog, as well as your car’s hitch size and height. This will help you determine which tow hitch dog step will work best for you.

2. Check Compatibility

Once you know your needs, make sure to check the compatibility of the tow hitch dog step with your car’s hitch size. Some models may only be compatible with certain sizes, so double check before making a purchase.

3. Look for Quality Materials

Investing in a high-quality tow hitch dog step is important for both durability and safety. Look for steps made from sturdy materials such as aluminum or steel that can withstand the weight of your dog without bending or breaking.

4. Consider Size and Weight Limit

The size and weight limit of the tow hitch dog step is crucial as it determines whether or not your dog will be able to comfortably use it. Make sure to check these specifications before purchasing to ensure that your furry friend can safely use the step.

5. Ease of Use

You want a tow hitch dog step that is easy to install and use. Look for models that come with clear instructions and require minimal assembly. Some steps also come with adjustable heights which can be convenient if you have multiple dogs of different sizes.

6. Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing any product for your pet. Look for features such as non-slip surfaces, reflective strips, or side rails on the tow hitch dog step to keep your furry friend secure during car rides.

7. Read Reviews

Before making a final decision, take some time to read reviews from other pet owners who have purchased the same product. This will give you an idea of their experience with the tow hitch dog step and help you make an informed decision.

8. Budget-Friendly Options

Tow hitch dog steps come in various price ranges, so make sure to set a budget beforehand and stick to it while looking at different options. You can find good quality steps at affordable prices if you do some research beforehand.

In conclusion, investing in a tow hitch dog step is not only beneficial for your furry friend but also provides peace of mind while traveling with them in the car. By following this buying guide, I am confident that you will find the perfect tow hitch dog step for both you and your beloved pet!

Author Profile

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Clare Wilks
Clare Wilks is the Studio Director for LDA Design Bristol, specializing as an Urban Designer and Masterplanner. Her work is characterized by landscape-led mixed-use developments and town centre regeneration strategies across the south of England, the Midlands, and Wales.

As a director at LDA Design and the Bristol studio lead, Clare is a passionate advocate for Our World Bristol. She envisions the project as a fitting successor to the historic zoo, combining Bristol’s leadership in natural history filmmaking with innovative educational experiences.

In 2024, Clare Wilks began a new chapter by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her extensive knowledge and insights with a broader audience, providing valuable guidance and practical advice.

Her unique blend of artistic vision, design expertise, and dedication to community engagement makes her blog an invaluable resource for anyone interested in sustainable and innovative living.