Can Corgis Climb Stairs? Here’s What You Need To Know

If you live in a multi-story home and want to find out if corgis can climb stairs, you’ve come to the right place.

Yes, adult corgis can climb stairs. But try to limit how frequently and fast they run up and down stairs each day because this can put undue pressure on their spine and joints.

This is because corgis are dwarf dogs. They have long spines and short legs, and while this is adorable to look at, it can also lead to health problems.

Especially if they regularly jump down from high places or run up and down stairs.

Let’s take a closer look at how you can ensure your corgi is safe at home, and whether a stair ramp is a good solution.

Which dogs should not climb stairs?

Dwarf dogs with long spines like corgis, dachshunds, and basset hounds should not regularly climb stairs.

It’s harder for them than other breeds to climb up and down stairs and doing so regularly increases the risk of spine- and joint-related problems.

These problems include Degenerative Myelopathy, Intervertebral Disc Disease, and Canine Hip Dysplasia.

Can corgis climb stairs? What about corgi puppies?

Owners are strongly advised against letting their corgis use the stairs until they are at least 8 months old.

If you can wait until they’re 12 months old, even better.

As for older corgis, those over the age of 9 years old should also avoid staircases.

Both young and old corgis are at a greater risk of health problems than healthy adult corgis.

Puppies are still developing and using the stairs may irreparably damage their joints.

Older corgis have weaker joints than their younger counterparts. Damaging their joints or spine at that age could be life-threatening.

Do corgis need a stair ramp?

So, now you know the risks of stairs, you’re wondering: do corgis need a ramp?

If you allow your corgi on the couch or bed, a stair ramp is a good idea to help them up and down without needing to jump.

Likewise, if there’s a small set of stairs they regularly use to get in and out of the yard, a ramp will reduce the impact this has on their joints.

3 stair ramps for your corgi

Here are 3 stair ramps perfect for your corgi.

Stair safety tips for your corgi

To ensure your corgi is as safe as possible in your home, follow these stair safety tips.

1. Use a stair gate

Corgis are clingy.

It’s not always easy to keep them downstairs if you spend a lot of time upstairs.

To prevent them from unnecessarily following you up and down the stairs all day long, install a stair gate.

Perfect for little children and, you guessed it, corgis!

2. Install carpet

If you’ve got carpet in your home, consider changing this.

This is because carpet provides a better grip for corgis than hardwood floors, minimizing the risk of them slipping and damaging their spine and joints.

3. Carry them

When I go to visit my parents’ house, I will often carry Winston up and down the stairs.

It’s not ideal (he’s a heavy boy!), but I do what I can to limit the number of times he runs up and down their 3+ flights of stairs.

Related FAQs

Can corgis climb?

Yes, corgis can climb. In fact, they make great hiking partners thanks to their high energy levels and incredible stamina.

Make sure that your corgi is healthy and that you build up to long hiking distances before taking them on a big climb.

Are corgis good beginner dogs?

Yes, corgis make great beginner dogs for first time owners. This is because of their size, their ability to pick up training fast, and their adaptability.