No More Jumping

Our young dogs and cats sure are happy, bouncy things, aren't they? Some literally fly through the air, off couches, beds, in and out of their cars or trucks, so eager to join us wherever we are, whatever we are doing. But there comes a time, all too quickly, when those bouncy, flying bodies pay the toll for all that concussion over the years. Last year I decided it was time to admit this about Verbal, and decided to get a ramp to help her in and out of the little SUV we drive in to work every day. It is a bit higher than the truck we used to have, and I was noticing her hesitations and occasional misses when scrambling into the back. Of course coming out never looked like a problem, but with all her weight coming down on her shoulders and front legs like that, I knew it wouldn't be long before that, too, would cause her pain.

Training a dog to a ramp is important, especially in scardey dogs like Verbal. Starting with a quality ramp is essential-don't cut corners. You will be using it every day, sometimes numerous times every day, so you want it to last. More important is that the dog feels secure when walking or running up and down the structure-cheap, flimsy ones might collapse on them or scoot out from under them and re-establishing trust will be very difficult after such an accident. Many people are tempted to make something out of plywood or something-I know Michael wanted to! But trainers across the board warn against it. If it is sturdy enough to support your dog, it will likely be too bulky to use easily; consistant use is essential to get the benefits and instill that confidence in your dog. If it is too light weight it may not be safe or long-lasting.

There are numerous types and styles of ramps specifically designed for dogs-you can find them in pet stores, feed stores, even on line. I got a pretty good deal on eBay for a 3-fold one, not too heavy and it supports up to 400 pounds. It has a rough surface for good traction when Verbal's paws are wet and has a snap attachment for the bumper of the car so it won't slip and fall down while being used. It folds up and stores in the back of the car very easily, a bit of a pain at first but we are both used to it now and Verbal knows to wait while I unfold it before jumping in or out. It is a big game to her, and of course, there are cookies involved!

Since food is always the way to Verbal's heart, that was the best way to train her to the ramp. Other dogs might be clicker trained, work for praise or toys. We started by just having the ramp unfolded in the house for her to sniff and get used to seeing for a few days-no big deal. Then we put her food and water dishes on the ramp when it was open flat on the floor. She got used to stepping on the textured surface-again, no big deal. We then graduated to practicing on a very gradual incline on the deck where there is just two steps elevation. We picked one direction to work on at first, walking down the ramp. Dog's do better learning one new trick at a time, so consider up and down two seperate "tricks." Their minds and their muscles will get in better shape this way. I figured jumping down would potentially cause greater harm in the long run, so chose to teach her the down direction first. I loaded up my pockets with treats, and away we went.

I put her at the top of the ramp, told her to wait, showed her the cookie, pointed to the ramp and said the word "ramp" simultaneously. I led her down the ramp with the cookie bribes in front of her. Don't just tease with the treats-keep feeding them or rewarding them and keep the dog totally focused on those treats, not the ramp. It is important NOT to use the dog's collar or harness to pull or guide them when they are learning how to use a ramp, even though it is very tempting to do this. Do use a leash and be prepared to support their whole body if they are unsteady or look like they are going to jump off the side of the ramp. Verbal gets excited and likes to jump off half way down lots of times-no cookies when she does this! Don't let them cheat like she does, and do be consistant-even if you are in a hurry it is important to always use the ramp. You can use the same techniques for teaching the opposite direction, for increasing elevations, and for teaching dogs who are using ramps for getting on and off couches and beds, not just in and out of crs or trucks.

Treats or whatever you deemed is the reward for your dog helps establish the habit, but you won't have to use them forever. I do keep a box of diet treats in the back of my truck right next to the ramp, but by now Verbal will do the ramp with or without treats. She is so proud of herself when she runs up and down that thing! Some dogs may need a running or trotting start to use the ramp, so be sure they have room to get started. When dropping the ramp down from a bed or couch, you might find it easier to position it alongside of it rather than straight out from it. It will afford better stability and security for your dog.

After one direction is going well, teach the other one. You really don't need two seperate commands- (up or down) "ramp" works fine either way. The dog will already be at the top or bottom so will know which direction he or she needs to go.

The best time to train your dog to use a ramp is before they really need one-before they are hurting or lame. That way there is no pain associated with the training situation. If your dog does have arthritis or other aches and pains already, as is usually the case, be sure you work with your veterinarian to have good pain management before you attempt this new training. Your dog will thank you! And likely your back will, too, if you are like me and were starting to do a lot of lifting of your dog in and out of the car. No fun, especially when Verbal was wet or muddy. A ramp can be terrific for our once flying friends who just need a little help to make their lives easier. Life is too often hard, so I'm all for things that make it easier!

Peace,
DrReneigh