Presenting
TWISTEP
The smarter, safer way to help your dog in and out of your SUV or truck—no lifting, no hassle. Swings out when needed, tucks away when not.
Explore ProductsBest Alternative For Dog Ramps Or Stairs

✅ Endorsed by veterinarians, breed groups & dog owners
Pet Step For SUV's & Trucks
Struggling to lift your dog into your SUV or truck? The Twistep pet step is the solution. Acting as both pet stairs for dogs and a folding pet ramp, this hitch-mounted design helps large dogs and seniors climb in comfortably—no more back strain or awkward lifting. Unlike traditional pet vehicle ramps, this pet step for large dogs is always with you. It's a pet ramp for outdoor adventures, a small pet step when needed, and the ideal portable pet steps system for everyday use. Just twist, step, and go!
Is Twistep Pet Step For You?
If you drive an SUV or truck, have a medium-to-large dog, and want a smarter alternative to traditional dog vehicle ramps, the answer is yes. This veterinarian-recommended dog mobility aid offers joint protection, reduces risk of injury, and ensures easy vehicle access—especially for aging dogs. Designed with durable materials and a patented hitch-mount design, it's trusted by pet owners across the country. From dog stairs for trucks to a compact SUV dog step, Twistep is a long-term solution that simply works.
Owners of Senior Dogs
If your dog is slowing down or dealing with joint pain, Twistep makes it easier for them to get in and out of your vehicle—no jumping, no lifting, no strain.
Big Dog Parents
Got a large breed like a German Shepherd, Rottweiler, or Great Dane? Twistep supports up to 400 lbs, giving your heavy dog a sturdy step up—without compromising safety.
SUV & Truck Owners
Whether you're driving a Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler, or a full-size pickup, Twistep is designed to fit standard 1.25" and 2" hitch receivers with ease.
Active Travelers
Love road trips, hikes, or beach days with your dog? Twistep doubles as a convenient seat and gear-loading platform, making it a versatile tool for pet-friendly adventures.

Key Benefits
Convenient Accessibility
Say goodbye to lifting heavy dogs. Twistep offers effortless, low-impact access into your vehicle—perfect for aging pets, large breeds, or post-surgery recovery.
Secure & Stable
Equipped with a durable, non-slip surface, Twistep provides a steady and secure platform your dog can trust—no wobbling, no slipping, just confident steps.
Universal Compatibility
Designed to fit most SUVs and pickup trucks with a 1.25” or 2” hitch receiver, Twistep is the must-have upgrade for any pet-friendly vehicle.
Built to Last
Crafted from premium, weather-resistant materials, Twistep is made to handle daily use, tough conditions, and years of adventures with your dog.
3-in-1 Versatility
More than just a pet step—Twistep also doubles as a convenient seat when tailgating or camping, and as a sturdy platform for loading rooftop cargo.
Twistep was designed for single hand use, so you can have a leash in your hand, while you easily position the step into place. You simply lift the T-Handle, and pivot the step into position. TWISTEP® easily swivels out from under the vehicle in a few seconds just when you need it. And it tucks out of the way under the bumper when you don’t.
Unlike ramp alternatives, with Twistep there’s no time consuming set up required. There’s no heavy, awkward or muddy items that you have to stow in the back cargo area of your vehicle. And importantly, there’s no more lifting!
Twistep has a full size platform and a special non-skid surface designed especially with dogs in mind. Twistep holds up to 400 pounds when using a Class III hitch - 2" receiver and comes with a corrosion-resistant coating and a 1-year warranty. Twistep is simple to install and has a minimal effect on ground clearance.
Twistep | Dog Ramp | |
Quality |
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Long-Lasting |
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Easy DIY |
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Adjustable Height |
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Bulky & Heavy |
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Mobility Issues |
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Senior Dogs |
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Weight Capacity |
Upto 400 lbs |
Varies |
How It Works?
Step 1: Slide Out with Ease
Simply pull the Twistep out from its secure, hidden position beneath your vehicle’s bumper. No tools or heavy lifting required.
Step 2: Twist, Lock & Go
Rotate the step into place and lock it in one smooth motion. The step clicks securely into position, ready for use.
Step 3: Easy Access for Your Dog
Watch your dog step up with confidence—no more jumping, lifting, or struggling. Ideal for elderly dogs, large breeds, or pups recovering from injury.
No storage hassle. No strain. Just a safer, easier ride—every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Twistep is compatible with most SUVs and pickup trucks equipped with a standard 1.25" or 2" receiver hitch. If your vehicle has a rear-mounted spare tire or unique bumper depth, Twistep's adjustable height and extension settings help ensure a proper fit. Contact support if you need help determining fitment for a specific model.
Twistep installs in just minutes. Slide the mounting shaft into your vehicle's receiver hitch and tighten the provided bolt or locking hitch pin. Height and distance can be fine-tuned using the included hex key. No cutting, drilling, or tools beyond a wrench and socket are needed.
Absolutely. Twistep features a wide, textured, non-slip rubber surface and supports up to 400 lbs—making it ideal for all dog sizes, including senior or injured pets. The secure locking system prevents wobbling or shifting during use, giving your dog a stable step up and down.
Twistep supports up to 400 pounds when mounted to a Class III hitch, making it safe not only for dogs but also for adults using it as a step or seat. It's tough enough to support loading rooftop cargo or tailgating activities.
Yes! Twistep conveniently swivels under your bumper when not needed—no need to remove or store it inside your vehicle. It locks securely in both the deployed and stowed positions.
Yes. Twistep is especially helpful for dogs with arthritis, joint pain, or mobility issues. It eliminates the need for jumping or being lifted, reducing stress on their joints and your back.
Yes, Twistep is transferable between vehicles that have compatible receiver hitches. You may need to adjust the step height or use a different mounting setting, but swapping it takes only a few minutes.
Clean monthly with soap and water to remove grime or salt. In winter or coastal areas, clean weekly. Lubricate the T-handle shaft and rotating surface with 3-In-One® oil regularly to maintain smooth operation. Always remove Twistep before entering automatic car washes.
Stiff movement may be due to rust or damage. Check the T-handle for bends or burrs. Apply lubricant to moving parts, and inspect for sand, salt, or corrosion. If issues persist, contact support for part replacements.
Yes. The SUV version allows up to 3" of height adjustment; the truck version adjusts up to 2". This helps position the step at the most ergonomic height for your dog based on bumper and hitch clearance.
Extension distance varies based on your hitch depth, bumper design, and Twistep setting. On average, it extends approximately 12" to 18" from the bumper. Contact us for precise measurement guidance based on your vehicle.
Twistep includes a 1-Year Limited Warranty covering manufacturer defects, functional failures, or abnormal wear. It does not cover damage from misuse, rust from neglected maintenance, or improper installation.
Twistep ships fully assembled. You'll only need to insert it into your hitch and optionally adjust the height using the included hex key. Suggested tools:
For SUVs:
• 19mm socket or wrench (standard bolt)
• 21mm for threaded HitchLock
For Trucks:
• 24mm socket or wrench (standard bolt)
• 21mm for HitchLock


Built for Big Adventures
No more struggling to lift your dog into the car. Whether they’re older, recovering, or just big and bulky—Twistep takes the weight off your shoulders.
Heininger Holdings began in 1998 as a team effort by a group of highly engaged people with a passion for producing innovative, fun and useful products that make the journey easier and the destination better. I’m humbled to say that for nearly 25+ years, we’ve been doing just that, every day, from our home base in Bellingham, Washington - USA
Over 25 Years Of Experience
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★★★★★ Rated 4.6 by 2216+ Reviews
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Way beyond our expectations!!! We are so please with this purchase! We set this up underneath our outdoor canopy and it kept us all very warm and cozy. The flame gets pretty high and it gives off tons of heat. We enjoy being able to turn it up and down for roasting marshmallows or just for the atmosphere. We haven't gone through much gas as many have said on other reviews. The size is perfect, there was no odor or smell. The only thing was having to light it yourself which isn't really wasn't that big a deal if you have a long lighter handy. All in all we give it five stars!!
@Christopher E. Marth


This umbrella is heavy and well made. I don't know yet how long it will last. But, so far it's not only beautiful but heavy and cover a wide area offering such a good shade.
@Yordi


I bought this as a step for me to get into a camper on the back of my pickup. It works great because the tailgate is removed, providing a nice wide, adjustable step. It can be swiveled out of the way with one hand. The surface is wide and not slippery. It does not wobble or rock when I stand on one side. I am 240 pounds and this remains very secure feeling.My truck is two wheel drive, so only the one step is needed. If I had a taller, e.g. 4 wheel drive truck, this probably would not be as comfortable with only one step.The price was pretty steep, but I like the sturdy, wide platform.
@Tom


I put this in a Nissan NV200 cargo van. Should fit any pickup or cargo van, very adjustable. Being able to safely and securely transport up to 4 bikes without taking ANYTHING apart, or even adjusting anything, is terrific.
@Big Al


Really pleased with this product. We drive an FJ Crusier and have three Leonbergers (largest is 145lb). In the past we've tried dog ramps -which sort of worked, but were slow to use and cumbersome. This Twistep is great, you just pull the handle up nudge the step and round it swings. Super easy! It'd be nice if they put a reflective strip on the edge-left out its a bit of a bump hazard.For me the only drawback was I also used the hitch for my bike rack. After months of swapping between them I finally modified a hitch splitter to allow both bike rack and Twistep to be mounted simultaneously-it works great! (If only Heininger would offer modified hitch splitters as an accessory).
@N. Doyle


Great buy! Camping during a burn ban is no fun, but this fixed that problem! Great little fire.
@Malea I


Exactly what I was looking for the finishing touch to my courtyard. It sets off my bright pink flowers. It is sturdy and well made. The pole is aluminum. Some have a crank, if you need one be sure to read description well. This one does not have a crank, I paid less for one without because this color was hard to find when I was shopping for it.
@The Tam'ster


Used this for a litter of six. Never turned over, held a lot of water, and I can’t recommend it enough. If someone hadn’t told me about it I never would have known. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!
@Amy watt


I bought this to make it easy for my 54 pound dog to get in and out of my SUV. I have back pain problems and picking him up to get in and out was taking a toll on me. Yeah, I could build a homemade step much cheaper, but I like this one so I splurged and I'm glad I did. I love it and my dog hops right in and out.
@Jennifer Gordon


I have bought at least a dozen patio umbrellas in the last decade. I have an umbrella graveyard. The first has blown over a pointy 6 foot fence into my neighbors yard several times. The second has gone on a couple "field trips" as well. They don't break - they BOUNCE BACK! Shade? This squirrelly lil guy is chill-laxing under what appears Deluxe in 104 Texas temps. The fabric in not as heavy as others I've had but I can stand on a chair and power-wash haphazardly and get most of the bird poop off. Definitely the longest lasting patio umbrellas I have purchased to date.
@Jilly


Love this product. I don’t have to lift my 50lb chunk of a dog into my lifted jeep. Short stack would hurt himself jumping up there constantly. And I had shoulder surgery so I can’t lift him anyway! Jeep rides must continue and this step allows that to happen!
@H. Clark


This thing is HEAVY DUTY. I bought one of the other cargo bars (the Keeper with the add-on cargo net) but decided to use it in my 2017 Ridgeline's trunk to add a second cargo net pouch toward the front of the trunk. I was happy with it, but this bar is twice the thickness of it and super solid. Great value for price, and I like the ratchet mechanism much better. If you need a cargo bar, I don't see how this could disappoint.
@KWC Indy


I use it all the time washing the truck. One of the best things i bought this here. Stores nice in the truck.
@Blkhk1up


As described, keeps rain and debris off tires. Not totally water proof, but a piece of plywood on top of the tires will prevent water from pooling. Works well for housing snow tires until needed.
@Shane D


Just purchased and it is fabulous. Definitely wood pole and arms. Super easy to assemble took all of 5 minutes, took me longer to get it out of the box. Worth every penny and so much more, just beautiful....and the color vibrant just awesome thanks
@Prime shopper 60
