My tiny 9 year old Rin has LP, stage 2 (maybe moving to 3). My vet has never recommended surgery.
His recommendations to me 1. keep her weight down 2. give a glucosamine supplement (he recommended one) and 3. keep jumping to a minimum.
Well her weight is fine, although I do have to scold my husband occasionally for giving her too many treats. We are probably on the third/fourth month of glucosamine, and I tell you, the little diva is acting like a puppy she feels so good. The jumping, ahhhh the jumping. It is so hard to keep a good Yorkie down!! She does have steps for the bed and sofa, which she uses MOST times. All that being said, my beautiful hardwood floors are covered with LANDING PADS
I'm fond of no slip bath mats!