|
 Pet Central
Q&A
Q: My daughter's Labrador retriever
is terrified of stairs. As a puppy, she had a bad experience with stairs.
We've tried to entice her with fish and meat at the bottom of the stairs
but to no avail. She's too heavy to carry. Can you help us? -- E.O., Palmyra,
Penn.
A: Instead of leaving the rewards
at the bottom of the stairway, take things one step at a time.
Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Wayne
Hunthausen, of Kansas City, Mo., says at your dog's regular feeding time,
put the food bowl on the first step. The next day on the second step,
the following day on the third step, and continue until you've reached
the top.
If your pup refuses to climb,
after let's say five steps, back up and repeat step four for two or three
days in a row before moving to step five.
When treats are offered, go to
the first step, tell your dog "sit," then offer the treat. Your dog will
think all good things in life emanate from the stairs. Once at the top
of the stairs, follow the same procedure for going down stairs. If your
pooch isn't motivated by food, use a favorite toy. Have the dog come to
the first step for its tennis ball. That's a sure thing. Now, go outside
and play fetch. On the second day, have your dog come up two steps, etc.
As always, training sessions should be fun and upbeat. If you're uptight,
your dog will pick up on it.
|
