How to Train Your Puppy to Use Stairs

When you bring your puppy home, his whole world will be changed and each experience will be brand new. Until now, his whole life has consisted of playing with his mom and littermates. His world may only have consisted of one room. Your house will bring lots of new experiences, and it's your job to make sure he learns to navigate them confidently. One of these unnerving new experiences might be learning to go up and down stairs.

Teaching your puppy use stairs might not be something you've been planning on, but if he's lived on one level his whole life, he's going to need some guidance. Fortunately this most likely won't take too much time for him to pick up as long as you give him confidence and assurance. Most puppies learn to use stairs without too much coaching

First, make sure your puppy is big enough to attempt the stairs in your house. If your stairs are exceptionally steep or slippery or if they are longer, you might want to let your puppy grow a little before attempting them. If he slips and falls, he might develop a fear of the stairs. You can start by attempting a few stairs at a time, maybe the steps outside your front door or at a park.

The key is to give him confidence and make sure he's safe. Wood stairs can be slippery and scary for a puppy. You can add grips to each step or a runner to add extra friction. Before you've taught your puppy to use stairs, keep him blocked off with a baby gate. You don't want your puppy to take a fall before he's ready.

Teaching your puppy to use stairs shouldn't be too difficult or take too long. There are a few items to have on hand that will make the process easier.

• Puppy treats
• A baby gate
• A favorite toy
• An older dog

Read through the three methods below and pick the right one for you and your puppy. With some patience and guidance, your puppy will be bounding up and down the stairs in no time at all.