Can Pugs climb stairs? This is one of the most common questions new pet owners ask, especially, if you’ve never had a dog. This article is going to take a look at whether or not it is safe for Pugs to go up and down steps. Check out these pet stairs for Pugs that make it easier for your pooches joints.
Can Pugs Climb Stairs?
Most adult Pugs will not have any issues climbing or walking down the stairs in your home, and it will be completely safe for them to do so. However, it’s important to note that wood and tile staircases can be extremely dangerous for Pugs because they have nothing to grip.
Also, steep staircases can be hazardous and scary for puppies, and older dogs.
In fact, according to research online, climbing stairs is a great workout for dogs because it works the muscles in their lower backs, hips, shoulders, and legs. Along with swimming, it can be one of the most effective ways for a dog to lose weight.
While I personally don’t recommend you letting your Pug go up and down stairs as a form of exercise. These dogs are prone to joint problems. If you live in a second-story house, they shouldn’t have any issues going up the steps every once in a while.
Mindy my black Pug, didn’t have any issues with stairs, however, as she got older, we invested in pet stairs to help ease the pressure on her joints.
Dog Going Upstairs
This video will show you how a Pug climbs the stairs every night when it’s time to go to bed. Those are pretty steep stairs and are made of hardwood. He just hops up the steps without any problem, you can even hear his nails clicking on the hardwood as he hops to the top without any issues.
We lived in a second story house when we first got Mindy and she had no issues climbing stairs until she got older.
If your Pug does climb stairs on a regular basis, just know that they will snort and make funny noises once they get to the top or bottom. (at least Mindy did)
Are Stairs Bad for Small Dogs?
Stairs can be bad for small dogs like Corgi’s because they have small front legs, which increases their risk of not only falling but can cause premature joint wear from the impact of scaling stairs.
The issue of whether or not stairs are bad for dogs is when your pet already suffers from pre-existing orthopedic problems. This is when stairs can be painful and can even exacerbate the injury or condition.
If the condition worsens, you will have to take them to the vet. As a pet owner, you should definitely consider investing in Pet insurance, especially, since Pugs are prone to several health issues.
As a Pug enters their senior years, they may experience more issues with climbing or walking down steps due to joint problems. It’s no different than us humans, as we age, we tend to have difficulty going up and down steps.
Can Pugs Climb Stairs?
Pugs are the largest toy dogs and with moderate length legs that are strong and lean. For most dogs, stairs will not be a problem. If they’ve never seen stairs, you will have to teach them how to use them.
Not all dogs will be able to successfully negotiate flights of stairs in your home or out in public. In fact, some dogs are at a disadvantage of being able to climb or go downstairs due to their size and build.
Some dogs that come to mind and fall into this category are:
- Corgis
- Dachshunds
- Basset Hounds
These are just a few breeds that have long backs and short legs. They can get seriously hurt if they attempt to go up or down stairs on a regular basis.
Pug Walking Down Stairs
Most Pugs will have no issue going up and down steps, especially, if they do not suffer from any health issues. When you see your Pug going down the steps, it won’t be slowly walking down the steps as we do.
Instead, they will run down the steps quickly, so make sure that you get out of their way and give them plenty of room.
Most dogs will have more trouble going downstairs than up. It’s always strenuous to climb a mountain, but easier than going back down. When you’re descending the same mountain, you’re suddenly putting all your weight on your knees and legs.
Now imagine that you’re a puppy or small dog. It can be scary when you’re standing at the top of the staircase thinking about going down.
As your Pug gets older, they will start to have trouble catching themselves at the bottom of the steps. Mindy my black Pug would fall on her face a couple of times as she entered her senior years.
However, she was so independent and didn’t want us picking her up and carrying her up the steps. That’s why we started using the Puppia Authentic Harness to give her some support while navigating steps.
How Old Before A Puppy Can Go Down Stairs?
Puppies should not be introduced to stairs until they are at least 12 weeks old. They will most likely be scared of them and can get hurt if their bones are not fully developed.
For larger dogs like the Labrador Retriever, Staffordshire Terrier, and some Shephard dogs, you wait until they are at least 12 months old.
Some large breed canines are prone to hip problems (hip dysplasia) and introducing them to stairs too early can make the existing or inherent problem worse.
If you are unsure about whether or not it’s too early to teach your Pug how to climb stairs, you should consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Pug puppy is healthy.
Related Questions
Why is my dog suddenly afraid of stairs? Most dogs that are afraid of going up and down stairs is due to the lack of early exposure. A phobia of stairs can also occur if your Pug has fallen down the steps.
References and Further Reading
Pant And Wag – Stair Climbing As An Exercise for Your Dog
Pet Hooligans – Are Stairs Dangerous for Your Puppy