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Chihuahuas (Especially older ones): How do they handle a full flight of stairs?

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    • January 28, 2016 #423463
      TangoOversway
      Participant

      I have two chihuahuas, just about 2 years old and my fiancée and I are planning and building a new 2 floor house. My dogs don’t have to deal with more than 2 steps at a time. I’m wondering if experienced chihuahua owners can tell me if their dogs (especially older ones) have much trouble with a full flight of stairs or not. Do many find they have to pick their dogs up and carry them up or down their stairs?

      We’re considering adding a dog ramp to go beside the stairs that would be easier for them to navigate. I haven’t had chihuahuas in the house since I was a kid and have never had them with me in a 2 floor house.

      How much of an issue is a flight of stairs for an elderly chihuahua? And are there other issues, such as their knees weakening or wearing out from repeated stair climbing?

    • January 29, 2016 #424880
      Ellen
      Participant

      Each Chihuahua is different but many senior Chihuahuas climb one step at a time. It may take them a little longer, but they can usually manage. Even if their sight is diminushing, Chihuahuas will navigate almost any obstacle to be near their “parents”. To best train, stand or sit at the top of the stairs & call them. If possible, see if you can find some stairs for practice. The only exception would be severe illness or if they are very tiny.

    • January 30, 2016 #425026
      TangoOversway
      Participant

      Thanks. I’m not as worried about training as in handling this issue when they’re older. As I said, we’re considering a ramp, but that takes space and changes some other things in the plan. Tango, the smarter of my two, will easily learn to climb up and down the stairs. The other dog, Mambo, will start climbing them just so he can join us when his brother is with me.

      I just didn’t want to go ahead with a normal staircase, then find out, as they age, that I should have planned ahead.

      Thanks for the feedback on this.

    • January 30, 2016 #425535
      Anonymous
      Inactive

      I think i would go ahead with an added ramp. I have 3 Chihuahuas, one is older and has trouble with steps. I have doggie ramps outside and through the house, makes it a lot easier for her.

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