Dog stairs

Why dog stairs help

A bed is a long jump for a small dog. The AKC notes that repeated jumping strains the joints of small breeds, and that long-backed breeds such as Dachshunds, Corgis and Basset Hounds are prone to spinal disc problems, so a low-impact way up and down helps. Seniors, dogs with arthritis, puppies and dogs recovering from injury or surgery benefit too.

Jumping down is often harder on the body than jumping up, because the front legs and shoulders take the landing. Stairs give a dog a controlled step instead.

Foam, wood and foldable stairs

Plush foam stairs are light, soft on joints and quiet, with removable washable covers. They are easy to move between rooms, but they compress over time under heavy dogs. Wooden stairs, carpeted or with non-slip treads, are firmer and last longer, and some have a hidden den underneath or a scratching post for a cat.

Foldable stairs in wood or light frames collapse flat for storage or travel. Adjustable models switch between stairs and a ramp, which helps if your dog's needs change as they age.

Choosing the right height

Measure from the floor to the top of the mattress or couch cushion. The top step should be level with or slightly below that surface, so your dog steps across rather than up. High beds usually need four to six levels; most couches need two to four.

More, shorter steps are easier than a few tall ones. A small dog or senior should not need to hop between steps; each step should be a comfortable rise for your dog's leg length.

Width, depth and grip

The AKC advises checking width, a non-slip surface and a weight rating that fits your dog. Each step should be deep enough for your dog to stand on with all four feet, and wide enough that they cannot step off the side. Large dogs need extra-wide stairs with a high weight rating.

Carpet, fabric or textured rubber on each tread gives grip. Put the stairs on a non-slip rug or pad on hard floors, and push them tight against the furniture so they cannot slide away.

Teaching your dog to use them

Let your dog sniff the stairs first, then lure them up one step at a time with treats, rewarding each step. The AKC recommends placing stairs with a barrier on at least one side, such as against a wall, and keeping early sessions short. Never pull, push or punish.

Practice going down as well as up, since many dogs jump off from the top at first. Once your dog uses the stairs reliably, reward them every time they choose the stairs over jumping.

When to check with your vet

Dogs often hide pain. If your dog has started hesitating before jumping, struggles to get up from lying down, or has stopped coming onto the bed, those can be early signs of joint or back pain, and a vet check is worthwhile. Sudden weakness in the back legs, crying when picked up, or wobbling is a reason to call your vet the same day.

For some dogs with back problems, a gentle ramp is easier than stairs; your vet can advise which suits your dog.

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