Maggie . . . our little faker! That's right, she's a faker!!

When Maggie comes to the top of stairs she goes into "freeze dance" mode - - and then we carry her 50lb butt down the steps that must be so frightful for our little angel. Our vet and trainer said we're doing the right thing because she's still traumatized. Our backs are killing us, but it's worth it for our sweet pup.

Well, she's been faking her stair-phobia. She's not afraid of stairs - - she's a DIVA!

Here's the scene: Today I was walking back into the garage after disposing Maggie's latest "special delivery" in the garbage when I saw her RUN DOWN THE DECK STAIRS ACROSS THE YARD AND BACK UP TO THE DECK.

What?!?!? Had I taken too many pain killers to relieve my aching back? No, I checked - - two ibuprofen does not cause hallucinations. I was speechless! I was mad at myself for not having the camera ready for this joyous occasion!! I couldn't wait to tell Steve!!!

I gave Maggie a treat and a tons of praise. She looked at me with a blank stare (OK, that's her usual look, but this was a very special moment).

And that's it. Maggie hasn't walked down stairs since. She's returned to "freeze dance" mode at the tops of stairs. Please pass the ibuprofen because it looks like our backs aren't going to get relief anytime soon.

Who's being trained? Maggie or Us??