Step 5 · Introduce Descent

Teaching descent is often more challenging than ascent for puppies. Start at the top of the first step. Encourage your puppy to look down and then gently guide them to step down one step. Reward them for any movement towards descending. You might need to sit on the step below them and coax them down with treats. Go extremely slowly, rewarding each small success. Some puppies may benefit from you physically supporting them slightly from behind as they learn to balance on the way down.

Tools and Materials