Dogs, for instance, can make you step back (4)
I believe the answer is:
pets
'dogs for instance' is the definition.
(dogs are often kept as pets)
'make you step back' is the wordplay.
'step' anagrams to 'PETS'.
Though, I'm not clear how the anagram is indicated.
'can' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for pets that I've seen before include "Domestic animals" , "Little darlings - step on them" , "Animals at home" , "Domesticated animals" .)