Dogs climbing stairs can harm the lumbar spine

Dogs are not born to climb stairs. For owners who live in stair houses, the first thing to teach them is to climb stairs. But did you know that climbing stairs incorrectly may harm your dog’s lumbar spine!
Compared to humans walking upright, dogs walking on all fours greatly reduces their probability of suffering from lumbar spine diseases. However, due to human modification of dog breeds, the waists of some dogs have become longer, stretched out, and the lumbar vertebrae are in the shape of an arch, such as Dachshunds, Pekingese dogs, Shih Tzus, Corgis, etc. This type of long-waisted dog breeds are often more likely to gain weight. The increased internal organs and intra-abdominal fat make their lumbar vertebrae have to bear greater pressure.

Dogs climbing stairs can harm their joints

Generally speaking, the plane width of each step is very narrow, which cannot allow the dog’s limbs and feet to land on the same plane. When a dog goes up the stairs, he must arch his back at almost every step and use his hind legs to push his body upward. Such continuous climbing will put a great burden on the dog's lumbar spine and limb joints.

Which dogs are more likely to be injured while climbing stairs

1. Dogs with chondrodystrophic disorders: such as Dachshunds, Pekingese dogs, French Bulldogs, Beagles, American Cocker Spaniels, and Bassets Special dogs etc.
2. Older dogs: After one year old, the older you get, the more you need to pay attention to your dog’s lumbar health. Injuries to the lumbar spine or limb joints can occur as early as 4 years old, and between 6 and 8 years old, intervertebral disc dysfunction can easily occur.
3. Dogs that are too obese: Weight will put excessive pressure on the lumbar spine.
4. Dogs who often climb stairs at inappropriate heights: especially small dogs and some dogs prone to lumbar problems, such as Teddy, Bichon Frize, Dachshund, etc.

Precautions for dogs climbing stairs

1. Letting your dog run on the stairs that are suitable for him can exercise his body. However, the height and plane depth of ordinary apartment stairs are only limited to It is barely suitable for human use, so dogs should be allowed to go up and down such stairs as little as possible.
2. Supplement dogs with more calcium to strengthen their bones. Older dogs who often climb stairs need to supplement calcium and chondroitin to prevent hip joint disease, rickets and other diseases.
3. Of course, rich dog owners who have the conditions can also install a special elevator for their dogs!
It is a good thing to let dogs exercise, but owners please pay attention to how you exercise! Don’t wait until your dog develops bone spurs in the lumbar vertebrae or severe arthritis in the hind limbs and seeks medical advice only to regret it!