It’s always a great feeling to take in a puppy and teach it how to be a good dog. However, it isn’t only puppies who require training. Some dogs, whether adopted or found, will require some degree of training when they enter your house, even if just to get the dog used to your rules and expectations. It’s a great idea to utilize dog stairs into your training routine.
Small dogs are especially in need of small dog steps, as they can sustain a serious injury from falling or jumping off of tall furniture. Breeds such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians have fragile bones and can easily break their legs jumping from a bed or sofa. Picking them up to place them on furniture can not only be a nuisance, but it can cause them spinal problems in the future.
Large and small dog steps are readily available at many retailers and are a worthwhile investment in your dog’s safety. There are many studies that show that small dogs are at the highest risk of breaking a limb if they fall off of a couch or bed and land improperly.
Training to use dog stairs for beds and other furniture is much easier than most training. After your dog has used the steps a few times, with your encouragement, he will soon naturally turn to the stairs as a way to get where he wants to be—near his owner(s).
It is very important that you maintain the pet steps, which basically entails that you keep items off of the stairs which could cause your pet to slip or trip. Many dogs have the habit of leaving toys and treats for later, so you will just want to clear the stairs as they require it.
Be sure to shop for steps that are the right height for your dog. Some of the best dog steps have adjustable heights on the steps that allow for growing puppies.
