The Right Way to Hold Your Dog

Holding your dog correctly isn’t just about comfort for you; it’s crucial for your dog’s safety and well-being. Improper handling can cause pain, injury, and even instill fear and anxiety in your canine companion. This guide will break down the proper techniques for holding dogs of various sizes, highlighting common mistakes to avoid. Remember, always prioritize your dog’s comfort and safety.

Holding Smaller Dogs (Small and Medium Breeds):

The ideal method for holding smaller dogs, like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, or even smaller breeds of terriers and spaniels, involves a supportive, secure cradle. This technique minimizes stress and prevents injury.

The Cradle Hold: This is the most recommended method. Place one hand gently underneath the dog’s chest, supporting its front legs and offering firm but gentle support. Your other hand should support the dog’s rear, cradling its hindquarters and preventing it from slipping. Imagine you’re holding a very precious, slightly wobbly package. The dog’s body should remain flat, with its belly facing downwards. Avoid lifting the dog by only its front legs, as this puts unnecessary stress on their delicate forelimbs and spine.

Adjusting for Size: For particularly small puppies or toy breeds, you may need to adjust this hold slightly. Use both hands to fully support their tiny bodies. Ensure that their delicate legs and spine are well-supported. A gentle, cupped hand under their chest and another gently supporting their bottom is ideal. Think of it as holding a newborn baby, but with a bit more careful positioning for the dog’s body structure.

Why This Method Works: This method keeps the dog’s spine aligned, distributes their weight evenly, and prevents discomfort. They will feel secure and less likely to struggle. It also keeps them from being suspended, with potentially damaging strain on their legs and joints.

Holding Larger Dogs (Large Breeds):

Holding large dogs presents different challenges. While some owners might attempt to lift their larger breeds, it’s generally recommended to avoid doing so unless absolutely necessary, such as in an emergency situation. Large dogs are simply too heavy for comfortable and safe handling in most situations, and attempting to lift them increases your risk of injury and theirs.

When Lifting is Necessary: If you must lift a large dog (for example, to help them into a car), enlist help if possible. Two people can significantly reduce the strain on both the dog and yourselves. One person can support the dog’s chest and front legs, while the other supports its rear and hindquarters. A harness or sling designed for lifting large dogs may also be helpful in these situations, allowing for an even distribution of weight.

Supporting, Not Lifting: Instead of lifting, consider using alternative methods of helping your large dog. For instance, if they need to navigate stairs, using ramps or stairs specifically designed for dogs will protect their joints. Providing supportive assistance, rather than directly lifting, is always preferred with large breeds.

Why Lifting Large Dogs is Discouraged: Lifting a large dog can lead to serious back injuries for both the owner and the dog. The strain on your back can be significant, and for your dog, the abrupt movement can cause trauma to their joints and spine, potentially leading to long-term mobility issues.

Mistakes to Absolutely Avoid:

Certain handling methods are detrimental to your dog’s well-being and should be avoided at all costs:

The “Baby” Hold: Lifting your dog by the belly, with their legs dangling, is incredibly unsafe and terrifying for them. This leaves them feeling vulnerable and insecure, and puts undue strain on their abdomen and spine. They are not human babies and cannot support their weight in this position.

Lifting by the Front Legs: This causes extreme discomfort and potential injury to the dog’s front legs, shoulders, and neck. Their weight is not designed to be supported solely by their front legs.

Grabbing by the Scruff of the Neck: While this might be instinctual for some, it’s painful and potentially dangerous. The scruff of a dog’s neck is not designed to support their weight, and you could easily injure your dog, or even accidentally drop them. This method is only appropriate for very young puppies by their mothers, and even then it should only be used for very brief periods.

Dragging or Pulling: Never drag or pull your dog by their leash or collar. This can cause injury to their neck and spine, and create fear and mistrust.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you’re handling your dog correctly, promoting their safety, comfort, and a strong bond between you and your furry friend. Remember, always be gentle and mindful of your dog’s body language. If they seem uncomfortable or stressed, adjust your hold immediately. Their safety and well-being should always be your top priority.