Pet stairs help dogs who are recovering from injury, suffer from hip dysplasia or arthritis or tiny dogs who just don’t have the size or oomph to jump on furniture.
Dog parents most often turn to pet stairs when they either have a dog who is too small to safely jump on or off furniture or have a dog who can no longer make the leap due to age or injury.
Too small to jump
Toy breeds are prone to bone and joint issues and because they are so tiny, they also are fragile.
Simple tasks like jumping off the sofa, which would pose no threat for a larger dog, can be very dangerous for a toy or teacup dog. A jump or fall from just a few feet can easily break bones.
So instead of risking their health, use a set of pet stairs to let your small dog easily climb onto the bed our couch.
Too hurt to jump
As dogs age, many experience debilitating diseases that limit their mobility.
Many larger breeds are prone to suffering from hip dysplasia, a painful condition that occurs in the “ball and socket” joint of the dog. When the “ball” does not fit tight in the “socket,” it causes friction, inflammation, cartilage damage, and pain.
In addition to controlling the weight of dogs prone to the condition, another great way to protect them is to keep the dogs from jumping from vehicles or furniture. In this case, using pet stairs can help prevent injury or further damage.
When dogs suffer from arthritis, it’s easy to dismiss the change in their behavior as simple aging. Be sure to watch for any signs that your dog is starting to avoid something she always loved doing.
Common canine arthritis warning signs include lethargy, walking in unusual patters or problems jumping on furniture and climbing stairs.
Again, using a simple set of pet stairs can help your canine companion continue sleeping at the foot of your bed or snuggling with your on the couch.
Help your dog age gracefully
Similar to having an injury, as dogs age, some dogs become less mobile as they age.
Using pet stairs can help make your home more accessible for your older dog and make it easier for you, too.
After all, it’s much easier to have your 70-pound dog walk up a set of pet stairs instead of having you strain your back trying to lift him.
Train your dog to use pet stairs
Training your dog to use pet stairs requires patience, consistency and maybe some extra tasty treats.
For tips on training your dog to use pet stairs, check out the helpful infographic below from our friends at TopDogTips.com.
Once your dog realizes that using the stairs helps him get back on the bed, or on the couch or into the car, you’ll both be glad you made the effort.
