How to Help Your Dog Overcome a Fear of Stairs

These techniques are drawn from behavioural science, positive reinforcement training, and our experience working with dogs across Brisbane and beyond.

1. Start from the Bottom – or the Top – One Step at a Time

Start at the bottom step. Reward your dog for sniffing, stepping on, or even just looking calmly at the step. Once they’re confident, move to the next one. Later, practise from the top down — this can feel scarier, so take your time.

You can also use “targeting” (teaching your dog to follow and touch your hand or mat), then place the target gradually up the steps to help shift focus away from the stairs themselves.

2. Adjust the Surface: Make the Stairs Feel Safe

Decking and tiles can feel slippery and unstable. Make the stairs more inviting with:

• Non-slip stair tape or rubber matting
• Carpet tiles, outdoor mats, or yoga mats fixed in place
• Temporary coverings to block open-backed stairs (e.g. cardboard or foam board)

The surface alone can make a big difference to your dog’s confidence.

3. Use Calm Marker Training and High-Value Rewards

Use calm verbal markers like “yes” or “good” to reward small steps (literally and figuratively). Use high-value treats your dog loves, like roast chicken, cheese, or peanut butter. Keep sessions short, happy, and always end on a win.

Related: Why Do Dogs Refuse to Walk?

4. Build Rear-End Awareness and Confidence

Many dogs don’t naturally know where their back feet are, especially on stairs. Boosting proprioception (body awareness) builds both skill and confidence. Try:

• Walking over broomsticks or PVC pipes
• Teaching your dog to back up
• Having them step onto low stable objects (like cushions or small boxes)

This kind of practice improves their balance and awareness — and it translates directly to better stair skills.

5. Use Familiar Mats and Scent Trails

Place a familiar mat on the first step to create a “bridge” from flat ground to the stairs. You can also scatter tiny treat crumbs on the steps to invite safe exploration without pressure.

6. Make Time Near the Stairs Fun

Spend time near the stairs just hanging out — not training. Offer a chew toy, have a quiet play, or do some gentle training nearby. The more relaxed time they spend near the stairs, the less intimidating they become.

7. Let Them Watch a Confident Dog

If you know another dog who’s confident on stairs, let your dog watch. Dogs learn from other dogs. Just make sure the model dog is calm and steady — not racing up and down at full speed.

8. Train at the Right Time

Avoid noisy or chaotic times. Practise when your home is quiet and well-lit. Lighting matters — shadows or shiny surfaces can distort how stairs look to your dog, especially if they already feel unsure.

9. Offer Support Without Forcing

If your dog seems willing but physically unsure, you can gently support them with a towel looped under their belly. This is not for dragging or pulling — just a bit of reassurance if they choose to try. Never push or lure a fearful dog past their threshold.

Stair Fear Quick-Checklist

If your dog is avoiding stairs, run through this list to make sure the environment and approach are setting them up for success:

Environment & Safety

☐ Stair surface is non-slip or has been made grippy (e.g., mats, stair tape)

☐ There are no open backs (or gaps have been temporarily covered)

☐ Area is well-lit, quiet, and free of distractions

☐ Stairs are not excessively hot, cold, or noisy underfoot

Dog’s Behaviour & Health

☐ Dog has no known joint, muscle, or back issues

☐ Eyesight appears normal (no bumping into things, hesitating in dim light, etc.)

☐ Dog is not showing signs of pain or discomfort when moving

☐ Vet has been consulted if fear appeared suddenly or is worsening

Training & Behavioural Approach

☐ Progress is based on the dog’s comfort — never forced

☐ Rewards used are high-value and delivered calmly

☐ Small steps are being rewarded — sniffing, touching, or placing paws on lower steps

☐ Confidence games or body awareness exercises are part of daily routine

☐ Sessions are short, relaxed, and always end on a positive note

Final Thoughts

Helping your dog overcome a fear of stairs is all about confidence, trust, and positive experiences. It’s not about pushing your dog through fear — it’s about building them up so they feel secure enough to tackle it on their own.

This blog is intended as a general guide and not a comprehensive behavioural plan. Every dog is different, and what works well for one may not suit another.

If your dog’s fear of stairs is sudden, worsening, or persistent — or if they’re an older dog or showing signs of physical discomfort — we strongly recommend speaking to your vet. Pain, joint issues, or vision decline can all make stairs genuinely difficult for a dog. Your vet may also be able to recommend a trusted holistic dog trainer or behaviourist for more tailored support.

Related resources from Jordan Dog Training:

• What is a Decompression Walk and Why Does Your Dog Need One?
• Let Dogs Be Dogs: The Hidden Costs of Humanising Our Pets
• Should a Dog Consent to Training?

If you’d like support or would like to share your progress, feel free to contact us — and don’t forget to give your amazing dog a pat from us.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended as general guidance and is based on our experience as dog trainers and behaviourists. It is not veterinary advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, wellbeing, or mobility, we always recommend speaking with your vet to ensure the best care for your dog.