Stairs

Question
My 45 pound, 8 month old Labradoodle came to me a few days ago.  He is very good tempered, but he refuses to go up or come down staris.  Since there are 10 steps to get to the fron door, this poses a problem.  I have been carrying him, and when time permits, I allow him to sit and look at the stairs, in hopes that he will go up/down by himself.  I have tried offering treats and toys, but this doesn't seem to work.  Help!

Answer
At 45 pounds, he is past being comfortable to carry, and should be big enough to climb the steps himself.  Dogs frequently don't accept things they weren't exposed to before 12 weeks.  I would concentrate on going up to start with.  Try sitting on the steps with the dog on leash.  Talk to it and coax it to you.  Praise any sign of it even getting near the steps and putting a foot on the lower step.  He is going to find being carried uncomfortable, and should try climbing the steps before long.  Lots of praise and a treat for any attempt.