Dachshund ramps

Why Dachshunds need ramps

Dachshunds are long-backed, short-legged dogs, and the breed is predisposed to intervertebral disc disease, in which the discs of the spine degenerate and can rupture. The AKC lists Dachshunds, along with Corgis and Basset Hounds, among breeds that benefit from low-impact access to furniture, which reduces jarring to the spine.

Every jump off a bed or couch lands with force on the front legs and travels along the back. A ramp replaces dozens of those jumps a day with a walk. It will not prevent every back problem, but it removes one of the most common daily strains.

Ramp or stairs for a Dachshund

Ramps are usually the better choice. A smooth slope keeps the spine more level than climbing steps, where the dog arches and pushes up with each step. Stairs designed with very shallow, deep steps can work for a healthy young Dachshund, but a ramp suits older dogs and any dog with a history of back trouble.

If floor space beside the bed is very limited, a shallow-step design is better than nothing. Whichever you choose, the goal is that your dog never needs to jump up or down.

Choosing length and angle

Measure from the floor to the top of the mattress or couch cushion, and choose a ramp whose platform reaches that height. Then look at length: the longer the ramp for a given height, the gentler the slope. Dachshunds do best on a low angle, so go longer where your room allows.

Height-adjustable ramps, which several here are, let you match different furniture and start your dog at a lower setting during training. Check the ramp has a non-slip carpet surface and is wide enough that your dog's whole body fits without stepping off the edge.

Training your Dachshund to use it

Lay the ramp flat first and reward your dog for walking over it. Then set it at the lowest height against the furniture, ideally with a wall on one side, and lure your dog up with treats a step at a time. The AKC advises never pushing, pulling or punishing.

Teach the way down too, as many dogs still try to jump off. Lift your dog down or block the jump until using the ramp becomes the habit, and reward every trip. Starting young makes it easier, but older Dachshunds learn too.

Signs of back pain to watch for

Back problems in Dachshunds can appear suddenly. Watch for reluctance to jump or climb, a hunched back, a stiff or lowered neck, crying when picked up, wobbly or weak back legs, or dragging a paw. These are reasons to call your vet the same day.

Loss of feeling or movement in the back legs, or loss of bladder control, is an emergency. Keeping your Dachshund lean, using a harness rather than a collar on walks, and supporting the back and rear when you lift it all help protect the spine alongside a ramp.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.