At the top of the stairs, use a gate that screws into the wall, not a pressure gate. Picks for senior dogs, how to measure, and what to do if you can't drill.
Your senior dog wanders to the landing at night and stops with both front paws on the top step. At the top of the stairs, use a hardware-mounted gate that screws into the wall, not a pressure-mounted one. Nationwide Children's Hospital, writing about baby gates, says "At the top of stairways, only use hardware-mounted gates," because a pressure gate can be pushed down. The AKC suggests gating stairs for dogs with mobility issues to avoid falls.
Quick pick: For the top of the stairs, a hardware-mounted Cardinal Gates Stairway Special (#ad) that swings away from the steps.
| Spot | Gate type | Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Top of the stairs | Hardware-mounted, swings away from the steps | Cardinal Stairway Special |
| Bottom of the stairs | Pressure or hardware | Regalo Easy Step |
| Wide or open-plan opening | Hardware-mounted, extra-wide | Regalo Super Wide |
Not a good fit: a pressure-mounted gate anywhere at the top of the stairs. For a dog with poor eyesight, add a night light so they see the gate.
A gate stops the night-time fall, but your dog still needs a way up. The AKC suggests a ramp for dogs who can no longer manage stairs. See our best dog ramp or stairs for senior dogs.
If your dog suddenly avoids the stairs, slips, or falls more often, book a vet visit before buying anything. Stair trouble can be a sign of pain or weakness. Read old dog won't go up stairs.
No. Child-safety guidance from Nationwide Children's Hospital says to use only hardware-mounted gates at the top of stairways, because pressure gates can be pushed down.
Most no-drill gates are pressure-mounted. If you can't drill, keep your dog downstairs and gate the bottom of the stairs instead.
Away from the stairs. The Cardinal Stairway Special includes an optional one-way stop bracket so it can't open over the steps, per the maker.
Product details are from the makers' Amazon listings, checked October 2026. Not veterinary advice. As an Amazon Associate, SILVERPAW earns from qualifying purchases.
Shop related senior dog essentials
Affiliate disclosure: SILVERPAW is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, SILVERPAW earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe help senior dogs. Prices, ratings, reviews, and stock are confirmed on Amazon.