Stairs Part 1

The number one issue I hear when it comes to pups on stairs is "how do I stop my dog from rushing and then jumping off the last couple of stairs?" Although every dog is different, a lot of dogs rush on stairs because they are uncomfortable and nervous about the stairs and just want to get off them as soon as possible. I think this sometimes stems from being put under strict control too soon. When a dog is learning stairs and we try to make them walk slowly by collar correcting them, I think it just enhances their feeling of unease. Another reason for rushing is that some dogs are just excited about life in general and the stairs are fun! Let's go up and down as fast as possible! I

In either case, here is a technique that might help. It is a multi-step process. The pup might be able to progress through all three steps in one session or you might have to spread it out over several sessions.

Step 1: Put the dog on a long leash and let him go up and down the steps at his own pace. For rushers, let them race up and down as fast as they want, as long as they aren't pulling you (that's the reason for the long leash). For tentative pups, encourage them to move. Keep the leash loose!

Once the dog has slowed down and is walking (rushers) or is willingly going up or down (laggers) move on to Step 2: Go back to your regular leash. Walk the stairs and try to match the dog's pace. Keep the leash loose!! Your only requirement here is that the dog keeps a somewhat steady pace. Put very little control on the dog. If the dog starts rushing too much and a small correction doesn't slow him down, go back to step 1.

When you feel the dog is relaxed and calm with this, move on to step 3. And due to the limitations on the number of videos in a post, to see step 3 please move on to the next post, entitled Stairs Part 2 (my creativity overwhelms you, doesn't it?)