Build Doggie Steps

Use our basic design below to build doggie steps for any size dog.

If you build from scrap materials the cost is minimal. You can practice your woodworking skills without worrying about mistakes.

(We spent no more than two US dollars on the one below - for drywall screws and carpet tacks!)

If you're a fine woodworker, use elements of our design to make a classy set of stairs to match your home's decor.

Before you begin, please see Build Doggie Steps: Preparation

Optional: Print out the information on that page and this one.

BUILDING INSTRUCTIONS

• Clamp your two 18 x 36 inch pieces of plywood together so you have the best (least damaged) parts on top of one another
• Or, if you're very accurate with sawing and the wood is whole, use one 24 x 36 inch piece

• Mark the pattern of steps you're going to use on the top piece i.e. 6 inches up, 12 inches over, three times altogether
• Saw along the lines: remember to use eye protection and watch your fingers!

ADDING THE 2 x 2 SUPPORTS:

• Using three screws in a shallow triangle pattern starting on the plywood side, attach each 12-inch 2x2 parallel to the top inside part of each step
• Keep edges from sticking out past the plywood

• Screw the two 15-inch 2x2's flush with the bottom, vertically aligned with the inside edge of the last step (see righthand photo below)
• Screw the two 4-inch 2x2's flush with the bottom and in vertical alignment with the inside of the front step

ADDING THE FINAL PIECES OF PLYWOOD:

• Prop the two sides against chairs or other supports
• Put the 12 x 15 boards on the supports to make your steps
• Screw in place as squarely as possible
• Screw the 15 x 6 piece along the bottom front step, flush with the floor (sides too, if you can)
• Screw the 15 x 18 piece (we used two 15 x 9 pieces) to the back step, flush with the floor (and sides, if possible)

Your doggie steps should not wobble. If they do, check bottom edges for unevenness. Unscrew and adjust pieces of wood as necessary.

ADDING FINISHING MATERIALS - CARPET:
See Homemade Doggie Steps: Adding Carpet

ALTERNATE COATING MATERIALS:

• If you elect to paint, varnish or add non-skid coatings to the steps instead of carpet, prepare the surfaces as recommended on the containers and follow directions for application
• Remember to use these chemicals in a well ventilated area and protect your eyes and skin

TRYOUT TIME:

Your dog may or may not get the point of the steps right away. If he or she does, you're home free.

If not, a little help may be needed:

• Make sure the steps aren't wobbling due to something (like a dog toy) being underneath
• Coax your dog onto the first step with a treat
• Repeat with each step
• Use the same process to persuade a timid dog to go down the steps