Can Golden Retrievers walk up and downstairs?
Yes, they can. However, they should not have to do so for at least the first year of life.
To protect joints and the musculoskeletal system, it is generally recommended to carry the puppy up and downstairs. After that, stairs should continue to be avoided as much as possible until the first birthday. However, with the rapid weight gain of the young Golden Retriever, carrying him for long periods can be a problem. After all, specimens weigh between 27 and 34 kg. This is quickly at the expense of the master's or mistress's back.
That is why an apartment on the first floor, raised on the first floor of a residential complex with an elevator is preferable. Even within the home, the Golden Retriever should not change floors several times a day. You can prevent this with baby guards on the stairs. During the day, the dog could stay on the first floor and only change floors to sleep with his humans.
Please also make sure to make stairs fall-proof. Open stairs or slippery steps pose a serious hazard. Especially for small puppies who could slip through. For smooth wooden and stone stairs, there are step mats or self-adhesive anti-slip strips.
How long could you carry your Golden Retriever up and down the stairs? Were you able to avoid steps until his first birthday? Leave a comment.