An Easy Way to Prevent Dogs From Going Upstairs

Visible barriers, such as pet gates, are useful in preventing pets from going up the stairs. However, pet gates can be unattractive and difficult to manage by some family members. An easy way to prevent dogs from going up the stairs is to use indoor deterrents that are effective and convenient for family members to pass through. Along with consistent positive reinforcement, you can create an invisible barrier your dog will recognize.

Things You'll Need

  • Indoor pet-safe pet deterrent
  • 3 strips of plastic floor mat (lengths equal to the width of the stairs)
  • Scissors
  • Masking tape
  • Low-fat dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place one strip of plastic floor covering prickly-side up on each of the first three steps. Trim the edges with scissors to remove any excess.

    • 2

      Place a few strips of two-sided tape under each piece of matting. Secure the mats in place by taping down the edges with masking tape. This holds the mats in place under traffic.

    • 3

      Lightly mist the mats with indoor pet-safe dog repellent.

    • 4

      Allow the dog to explore the area. Praise the dog when it walks away from the steps, and offer a treat. This tells the dog it chose correctly by walking away from the stairs.

    • 5

      Reapply the pet deterrent as directed on the container, to maintain an optimal level of performance.

    • 6

      When the dog attempts to break the barrier, give a firm command "no." Praise it when it shows no interest in going up stairs. This reinforces the reward for wanting to stay downstairs.

    • 7

      Praise your dog for sitting quietly when you return from trips upstairs. This reinforces the dog̵7;s correct decision of not breaking the barrier to go up the stairs.

    • 8

      When the dog does not show any interest in going up the steps, take down the prickly mats.

    • 9

      Continue using the pet-safe deterrent until it becomes second nature for the dog to sit and wait quietly at the barrier, or ignore the steps altogether.

    • 10

      Continue to offer verbal praise to your dog when it recognizes the barrier, and reapply the pet-safe deterrent when additional training is necessary.