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Are stairs and jumping on furniture safe for my small dog's joints?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 8 months and 2 days old | 15.6 lbs

Should I be worried about my chiweenies going up and down a short flight of steps or jumping on furniture? It seems easy for them, but I wonder if I need to be worried about their joints and backs?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on November 3rd, 2017

Small, long bodied dogs like Luna may be prone to more back and knee issues. Generally stairs are fine. Try to limit the jumping though. Try to train them to use doggie stairs to get on the furniture. Sometimes this is easier said than done :) Big things are to make sure they don't get heavy and to have them examined regularly for any signs of joint disease. Eventually they will likely go on a joint supplement as well to support good health. Hope this answers you question!

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