Keeping your dog from self injury is a very high priority for any pet owner. But did you know that your dog could be developing bone or joint issues already? Conditions such as arthritis and hip dysplasia could be prevented by incorporating the use of dog stairs into his daily routine.
If your dog regularly jumps onto and off of furniture (even if it isn’t very far off the ground), his ankles, knees, hips, and spine are absorbing the shock that occurs when he lands. Using pet steps will keep him from having to exert any unnecessary pressure onto his body.
Deciding where the steps will be used most is an important factor to keep in mind when you’re picking out a set of steps. For instance, if you need dog steps for beds, you will need to know the distance from the floor to the top of the mattress. This way, your dog will not trip himself while trying to reach the bed if the steps are too short or tall. Some pet steps are designed with built-in compartments which are great for storing toys and treats.
A very important factor to keep in mind when choosing steps is how wide the steps should be in relation to the size and weight of your dog. A dog weighing less than 20 pounds should use small dog steps that are 12 inches wide. If your dog is over 30 pounds, he will need large dog steps measuring about 16 inches wide. Medium-sized dogs, between 20 and 30 pounds should do well with steps that are 14 inches in width.
There are several different materials you can choose from, as well. The most common finish being carpeted, as it enables your dog to get a good grip as he ascends and descends the steps. You can also get wooden stairs in various shades, and even molding!
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