My Doberman puppy Luna doesn´t know how to walk stairs properly and I think she´s a bit scared or afraid of heights, what can I do about it ? She is also very energetic and sometimes I need her to steam off fast because I´m pressed for time and then this exercise is very efficient.
But how to teach a dog to walk up or down stairs? And why should spend time on teaching the dog to go up and down stairs, steps and ladders. Many of you might think that all dogs know how to walk stairs BUT YOU ARE WRONG THEY DON’T.
Just like babies need to learn to walk safely through hindrance - puppies do to. Dogs that arent used to walking up stairs dont necessarily do it right and they even might build up fright or insecurities about stairs if you don’t introduce it at early age. Even worse for most puppies is to go DOWN stairs.
This is an exercise I introduce to the puppy around week 12 as a game. I how ever have to take a few security measures so he doesn’t hurt himself, get injured or get a bad experience. Walking stairs is a useful drill to make a stronger puppy and help him overcome being afraid of heights.
But this is also very helpful when training OLDER dogs and as you´ll see in my video I use stairs for ALL dogs that come to me for personal training and group classes. The reason why I find it important and want you to start it during early age is because it helps your puppy to discover HOW to use it’s hind legs, helps him to find balance, strengthens his back and legs, coordinates the use of all 4 legs and more importantly learns to listen to you and your way of communication.
It´s a great BONDING exercise, it´s also great if you only have a few minutes to train your ENERGETIC puppy or release his energy. Let me show I begin introducing stairs, where I begin and how the process evolves as the puppy gets older and better at it.
Like the gear I used with Luna - check out my links:
** ITCHY gums and a time off, this ball is a life safer (for both of us): amzn.to/3ny8pJJ
** Teething puppies and toothbrush for older pups. Enrichment at it´s best: amzn.to/35tUq1m
You might also like:
°°Rope is an essential dog toy, safe and soft to chew. Fun to fetch and shake: amzn.to/34p4it3
°°Tennis balls are our favorite - easy way to get the puppies attention: amzn.to/31zgc1V
°°Biodegradable Poop Bags - bargain buy - extra thick, big & strong: amzn.to/3kt9Ic7
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