Can French Bulldogs Go Up & Down Stairs? Our Vet Answers

If you've just brought home a new French Bulldog, congratulations! Now, have you started puppy-proofing everything? After you survey the room, you might wonder if Frenchies can go up and down stairs easily or if you need to use a stair blocker. The French Bulldog shouldn't have a problem going up the stairs, but to go down the stairs, they may need supervision or safety requirements, at least at first.

Can French Bulldogs Go Up and Down Stairs?

Many people's houses have stairs. It might be one or two into or out of the house, or it might be multiple flights if you have a large house.

Whether your French Bulldog can go up and down the stairs depends on them. Many Frenchies can safely navigate going up the stairs. These top-heavy pups may have difficulty getting back down the stairs, though. The safest thing to do is to block your stairs until you and your dog figure out if they can walk up or down them.

Frenchies have stout bodies with wide, heavy heads, which can put them off balance on stairs, especially going down stairs. When they are young, they're quite tiny, with short legs that can make it difficult for them to stretch up and down the steps.

French Bulldogs may also have physical issues, such as hip dysplasia, which can make climbing stairs difficult.

What to Be Aware of If Your Frenchie Likes Stairs

So, what if your pup likes stairs? Keep in mind that they should not run up and down them, especially while they're still growing, as this could put extra stress on their developing joints.

French Bulldogs often suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome, which typically includes stenotic nares, an elongated soft palate, and a narrow or hypoplastic trachea. These pups can easily get winded and even overheat, so make sure they're breathing well as they traverse the steps.

Remember that older dogs may have arthritis in their joints, making climbing stairs even more difficult. It could be painful or even contribute to a dangerous fall.

The good news here is that different treatment options are available to help your dog, including:

Assist these pups with the stairs, and consider putting supportive bedding in rooms your dog frequents. Work with your veterinarian by bringing your dog in for regular physical exams, usually at least twice yearly. They can help diagnose issues like arthritis or hip dysplasia that can make it hard for your dog to go up and down stairs.

We recommend you consult a veterinarian for the best advice on which would be the best treatment for your pup.

Preventing Your French Bulldog From Accessing the Stairs or Helping Them Use the Stairs Safely

While you are puppy-proofing your house, consider blocking the stairs. A stairway gate can easily keep your Frenchie either upstairs or downstairs. Baby gates have long been a popular choice, but they make more pet-safe ones (that can also look nice).

If possible, you might want to consider installing a ramp on the stairs. Ramps can also help your Frenchie get up on and down from the couch or bed with little to no assistance.

If you can't block the stairs, consider these options to help your dog navigate the stairs safely:

Conclusion

Many French Bulldogs can at least go up the stairs but might have more trouble going back down. You can help your Frenchie by either blocking your pup from the stairs entirely or making adjustments to give your dog more mobility.

See also: 

• How Much Exercise Does My French Bulldog Need? Vet Approved Advice

• 5 Things Not to Do With a French Bulldog: Vet Approved Safety Tips

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