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Originally Posted by lillymae  No small dog should be allowed to jump off of furniture as it will usually eventually cause disc issues . . .
Also I prefer a ramp vs steps as steps still allow too much of a jolt to their spine. |
I focus so much on legs that I forget about the spine. I have always heard that stairs are bad for dogs' backs, dogs of any size, and I have been meaning to search for vet articles on this. The damage usually isn't seen until old age, as happened with our Cockapoo. Now you have me thinking twice about the jumping on the couch.
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Originally Posted by Britster I see where you're coming from, but honestly, they're dogs. I see no reason to have an 8-15lb dog that is perfectly capable from jumping on/off the couch being forced to wait for you. Now if the dog physically cannot, due to size, or health, or whatever, or already has health issues, or is a breed prone to back probs (i.e. Dachshunds). That is of course understandable. And of course it can't "hurt" to lift a dog on/off, but I would never make a perfectly willing/capable dog do this personally. If anything, I would think a dog would become weaker and more prone to accidents if they're never allowed to jump on/off something as simple as a couch, or are carried all the time. I work very hard at making sure Jackson is in tip top physical condition, he does a lot of swimming, a lot of balance work, perch work, uphill running, etc, and I believe it is because I allow him to USE these great muscles that he has. Now if you'd prefer to have dogs going up ramps/steps, and train it from the beginning, that's wonderful. I'm not saying it's not. But try getting a dog like Jackson to use them, you'll see what I mean, LOL.... |
You bring up a good point about strengthening through exercise; it helps not only muscles, but bones too. Ashley, Rory and Lane's mom, reminded me of this when I was worried about my boys doing the "pogo stick" jumping on hard floors. Max can jump 4 feet!
However, seeing Teddy jump off the firetruck bumper onto the pavement, it was clear the impact was too much for his leg. I was really worried he had hurt himself. I will continue lifting my guys out of the car, and my bed will remain on the floor (the boys do flying leaps to get to the window).