Should I get ramps for my dachshund's couch, bed, and stairs?

To keep your puppy as safe as possible start training him now to learn that he shouldn’t jump up on things. It is also very important that you keep your dog and an appropriate weight. The more overweight the more prone they are to have issues with their joints, including their spines. It may also help to get small stairs or ottomans that he can climb onto to get onto the furniture so he won’t have to jump as far. You are obviously a good pet owner because you are so concerned about him already. As long as you keep him healthy and keep a close eye on him he will do great. Thanks for your question. If you have anymore questions please let us know. And thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I agree that Bow seems to be in pain. Although the injury could be anywhere in his body, the big concern with his breed is an injury to the neck or spine. With their long bodies, Dachshunds are prone to back injuries. I recommend to have him seen by his veterinarian who will palate the neck, spine and legs to determine what area is injured. They will also try to determine if it is a soft tissue injury or related to the bones. Until you see the doctor, Bow must have strict exercise restriction. Do not allow him to do any more jumping, no running, no stairs, no walks and outside on a leash only. You must be cautious with a potential back issue as it can have serious consequences. I hope you find this helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions. I hope he starts feeling better quickly!

I'm not sure what your question is exactly, or what answers you've received since we can't see answers from others. That said, if the stairs aren't too steep, I don't see the issue. The problem with long-bodied dogs happens when they have to climb often, or hop from high places, as it can cause injury to the back and muscles surrounding. If the stairs are very tall (and must be hopped up or down) or very steep, then adding a ramp or alternate way to get up them can help protect the back.

Yes, you should still encourage them to use the stairs. Corgis, being long-backed, do have a tendency to hurt their backs when jumping up on things as you are aware. They don't just "hurt" their backs but they can actually slip a disk and become paralyzed. It can be quite a serious issue.

Small, long bodied dogs like Luna may be prone to more back and knee issues. Generally stairs are fine. Try to limit the jumping though. Try to train them to use doggie stairs to get on the furniture. Sometimes this is easier said than done :) Big things are to make sure they don't get heavy and to have them examined regularly for any signs of joint disease. Eventually they will likely go on a joint supplement as well to support good health. Hope this answers you question!

It sounds like she could have a problem with her back. Intervertebral disc disease is very common in the dachshund breed and she may have a disc that is starting to herniate. She needs to be examined by a vet to evaluate her back and determine the best treatment plan. Your vet may need to take an x-ray of her back. Anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxers, and pain medications are used to treat this condition, as well as strict rest. No jumping, running, or playing for 3-6 weeks. Please call your vet and have her seen as soon as possible. Hope she feels better soon!

Hello. I am so glad that you are considering adopting Bucephalus. You do not indicate his age, but I would not expect a young(er) & healthy dog like this to have any difficulties with the stairs. As he ages, arthritis might limit his ability to climb 4 stories, but this could be the case with about any other breed of dog. If you manage his weight so he does not get obese, & make sure he gets regular exercise to prevent early onset of arthritis, he should do just fine. Good luck & thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.