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Is my dog too young for stair exercise to burn off energy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Cattle Dog | Male | neutered | 10 months and 10 days old | 42 lbs

When can I use stairs as exercise for my dog? We live a town home that doesn't have a backyard so most of my dog's exercise is done inside or during walks. A friend of mine recommended using the stairs in our house to help burn off his seemingly endless amounts of energy but I'm worried that he is too young to run up and down the stairs. What do you recommend?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on September 21st, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You can start doing this at anytime. It is all about not over doing it so perhaps keeps this limited to once daily. Also, I would consider relying more on walks (perhaps longer walks) than using the stairs at least until his bones are more developed (at least after 1 year of age). Good luck and have a nice day!

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Yes he's old enough to go up and down the stairs for exercise. That is good for rear leg strength. I like them to walk up and down, no running so he doesn't fall and get injured. Retrieving is another good way to wear out an energetic dog., as is controlled tug of war. To burn even more calories and work on his obedience I like to have Rowan sit and stay, then throw a ball or toy up a hill then tell him to fetch. Have a treat handy to give him so he'll drop the ball when he comes back. Cattle dogs are very smart so work on teaching lots of tricks also. That will give you two something to work on in the house, it'll tire him out, work on his listening to you, and it's fun to show tricks to your family and friends. There are lots of great Dog Trick books to help with this. Check out those of Karen Sundance. I'm glad you are concerned about giving Rowan plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog, and better behaved too. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Rowan.

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