Daschunds and Stairs

[Honeytown]

Hi there,

I'm considering a Daschshund for my new best friend. But we live in a split level home. I'm very concerned about how this breed does on stairs and am looking for comments from those experienced Daschsie people.

Thank you for any help.

[Roberta]

Stairs are not really recommended,but you also have to remember no jumping on chairs, into cars etc. I know thats blunt but you and family and friends have to understand they need lifted onto and into everything. We tell everyone except close family not to pick them up as (you may already know) as there is a way to pick them up so excess stress is not put on their spine. They are not also toy's that do not need exercise..............they don't need much but you need to keep them trim and well exercised to keep muscle strength up therefore lower the chance of spinal injury.
How big is the split level...............a couple of steps you could use a ramp and you can train them to use it or get a baby gate and only allow them up when you lift them. We have rubber wheelchair ramps up to all our outside doors.

Other than that they are the most lovable, intellegent,  protective, affectionate clowns, and can be a bit self reliant (read subborn) love routines. We have two, and have had 5 all up over the last 20 years.

Roberta owned by Amy and Oliver as one only thinks you own them

[Norman]

The best medicine is preventative medicine.A simple gate will keep them off the stairs and a pup can be trained not to jump up on furniture or into cars etc.My Simon is allowed on all furniture but he knows that he has to be picked up in order for that to happen.What Roberta said about diet and exercise is key to keeping them healthy.Simon has this great indestructible toy that he plays with for hours and gives him great exercise.

Simon is now 11 and had to have a disc fused many years back and the recovery time was quite lengthy.He required constant attention until he was fully recovered.So I certainly practice what I preach so that hopefully does not happen ever again.

[Honeytown]

Thank you for your thoughtful replies.

  Keeping a Dachshund slender and well excercised would be no problem for me.   However, my  small home's living space is seven stairs up and seven stairs down.  It pains me greatly, I've decided to wait until I move from here to get my Dachshund.

Thank you again and enjoy your wonderful dogs. :)