How to Assist an Arthritic Dog Down the Steps

As many dogs age, they can indicate signs of pain by limping and having difficulty moving. Owners might see that their pet shows a decreased level of activity, becomes less playful and suffers decreased muscle tone. Typical signs of a dog suffering from arthritis include your dog having trouble standing or sitting, being hesitant to jump up on the couch, and maybe being reluctant to go up or down stairs. While smaller dogs can be carried, larger dogs often need their owner's assistance in getting up and walking down the steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Large towel or small bed sheet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Roll your towel or bed sheet into a long tube length-wise.

    • 2

      Place the middle of the towel under your dog's belly below the ribcage so that the ends of the tube are evenly spaced on either side of the animal's body.

    • 3

      Stand behind your dog with one towel end in each hand and slowly walk the animal toward the edge of the steps. Raise the hindquarters up so that most of your dog's weight is over its front end.

    • 4

      Allow your dog to move down the stairs leading with its forequarters while you follow on the step just behind holding up its hips. Remove the towel from around the dog once you reach the bottom.