I collect my long awaited labrador puppy next week at 8 weeks old. My problem is that the entrance to my back garden is up 4 steps (there  is some gravel immediately out of the back door to the steps) All the puppy books advise on letting the dog walk to its relief area for a pee etc. However I am concerned about the steps and the damage it could do to her joints etc especially with toilet training her and I would be taking her out about every hour. What advice would anyone give? Should I carry her up the steps to begin with and if so for how long?

I have labradors, and my house and my outside area is full of steps. I think you should be sensible, an 8 week old labrador puppy should still be a substantial puppy, not like a toy breed. I would not carry the dog to the relief area but always be on hand to help down the steps. Once they get the hang of it they are fine.