The Right Way to Pick Up, Hold, and Carry Your Dog

By Mariana Burgos

When it comes to caring for dogs, knowing how to properly pick them up, hold them, and carry them is essential for both the pet’s comfort and the owner’s safety. Understanding the correct techniques can make a significant difference, especially for smaller breeds or dogs recovering from injuries.

Why Proper Handling Matters

Handling a dog incorrectly can lead to injury for both the animal and the person involved. Picking up a dog the wrong way can cause stress and fear in the pet, making them anxious or even aggressive. According to the article “How to Pick Up a Dog” by Arlene Weintraub on the GoodRx website, improper lifting can also lead to back injuries for the owner. The potential for harm underscores the need to learn the right techniques for lifting and carrying dogs, which not only promotes a positive experience but also strengthens the bond between the owner and their furry friend.

Assessing the Situation

Before picking up a dog, it is important to carefully assess the situation. Factors to consider include:

• Size and Weight: Knowing the dog’s size can help determine if it is manageable to lift them. Smaller dogs may be easier to handle than larger breeds, which require more strength and technique.
• Temperament: A calm dog may be easier to pick up than one that is anxious or excitable. Understanding the dog’s mood can save both parties from a stressful encounter.
• Health Status: Dogs recovering from surgery or with mobility issues may require special handling. Identifying any health concerns beforehand ensures that the dog is lifted in a way that does not exacerbate existing conditions.

Taking these factors into account, according to Weintraub, can help ensure a smooth lifting process and a positive experience for the dog.

Step-by-Step Guide to Picking Up a Dog

1. Approach Calmly

Approaching a dog quietly and calmly is crucial. This helps the dog feel safe and reduces the chance of startling them. It is advisable to speak softly and maintain a relaxed body posture. A gentle approach sets the tone for the interaction and encourages the dog to be more receptive, according to Weintraub.

2. Assess the Dog’s Comfort Level

Weintraub suggests, before attempting to pick up the dog, it is best to gauge their comfort level. If the dog seems anxious or tries to move away, it may be best to avoid lifting them. Instead, consider using treats or toys to coax them gently. This not only builds trust but also makes the lifting process smoother.

3. Positioning

• Small Dogs: For smaller breeds, like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians, the ideal way to lift is to position one hand under the dog’s chest and the other hand supporting its hindquarters. This ensures that the dog’s weight is evenly distributed and reduces the risk of injury, says Weintraub.
• Medium to Large Dogs: For larger dogs, it is generally safer to allow them to step onto a stable surface like a low table or bed before lifting. If lifting is necessary, Weintraub suggests that the handler should bend at the knees, keeping the back straight, and slide one arm under the dog’s belly while using the other arm to support the hindquarters. This technique not only protects the dog’s body but also minimizes strain on the handler’s back as Weintraub points out.

4. Holding the Dog

Once lifted, it is important to hold the dog securely. Weintraub, in the GoodRx article, emphasizes the following points:

• Keep the Dog Close: Holding the dog close to the body provides security and comfort for the animal. This close contact helps the dog feel more secure and less likely to squirm.
• Avoid Excessive Movement: Sudden or jerky movements can frighten the dog. Instead, move slowly and steadily. Gradual and gentle movements help maintain the dog’s calmness and reduce the risk of accidents.

5. Carrying the Dog: An Essential Skill for Pet Owners

When it comes to carrying a dog, maintaining a stable posture is crucial for both the handler and the pet. The ideal way to hold a dog is to keep its body parallel to the ground. This technique, Weintraub claims, helps to minimize any potential strain on the dog’s spine, which is especially important for the animal’s overall health. Moreover, it is advisable to limit the duration of carrying to prevent fatigue, ensuring that the dog remains comfortable throughout the process.

Training Your Dog to Be Comfortable with Lifting

To facilitate a smoother experience when lifting a dog, Weintraub offers handlers some practical tips:

• Positive Reinforcement: Utilizing treats and verbal praise can greatly encourage a dog to accept being picked up. This approach reinforces the behavior, making it more likely for the dog to remain calm during the lifting process.
• Practice: Gradual practice in a calm environment helps build the dog’s comfort and trust. This step is vital, as it allows the dog to become familiar with the sensation of being lifted without feeling anxious.
• Consistency: Regularly handling the dog can significantly help it adapt to being lifted. Consistency in training, as Weintraub tells us, fosters a sense of security and predictability, making the dog more comfortable with the process over time.

Understanding the correct techniques for picking up, holding, and carrying a dog is an important skill for any dog owner. By employing the strategies outlined in Weintraub’s article, dog owners can ensure a safe and comfortable experience for both themselves and their furry companions. With patience and practice, lifting and carrying a dog can seamlessly integrate into daily routines, strengthening the bond between pet and owner.

This article also appears in the Manila Standard

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 17 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.