How To Pick Up A Dog: A Complete Guide

Sep 12, 2025 by Sebastian Müller 39 views

Picking up a dog might seem like a simple task, but doing it correctly is crucial for your furry friend's safety and comfort. Improperly lifting a dog can lead to injuries, stress, and even behavioral issues. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the proper techniques for picking up a dog, considering different sizes, breeds, and situations. Whether you're a new dog owner or just want to brush up on your skills, this article will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to handle your canine companion with care.

Why Proper Lifting Matters

Before we dive into the how-to, let's discuss why the proper way to pick up a dog matters so much. Think of it this way, guys: dogs can't exactly tell us when they're uncomfortable or in pain with words, so it's up to us to be mindful of their body language and handle them with the utmost care. Proper lifting techniques are essential for preventing injuries and ensuring your dog feels secure and trusts you.

Preventing Injuries

Dogs, especially smaller breeds and puppies, have delicate skeletal structures. Lifting them incorrectly can put undue stress on their joints, spine, and limbs. For example, lifting a dog by its front legs can strain its shoulders and elbows, potentially leading to dislocations or ligament damage. Similarly, picking up a dog by its scruff (the loose skin on the back of the neck) may be appropriate for a mother dog carrying her puppies, but it's generally not recommended for humans as it can be painful and frightening for the dog.

Injuries from improper lifting can range from mild strains and sprains to more severe conditions like slipped discs or fractures. These injuries can cause chronic pain, limit your dog's mobility, and require expensive veterinary treatment. By learning and practicing the correct lifting methods, you can significantly reduce the risk of these issues.

Building Trust and Security

The way you handle your dog directly impacts your relationship with them. If you pick them up in a way that makes them feel insecure or uncomfortable, they may become anxious or fearful around you. This can lead to behavioral problems such as aggression, avoidance, or excessive barking. On the other hand, if you approach and lift your dog gently and confidently, they will feel safer and more secure in your arms. This positive experience strengthens the bond between you and your dog, fostering trust and mutual respect.

Think about it from your dog's perspective: being lifted off the ground can be disorienting and even scary, especially if they don't feel stable or supported. By using the proper techniques, you can minimize their anxiety and make the experience as pleasant as possible. This is particularly important for dogs who are already prone to anxiety or have had negative experiences with being handled in the past.

Recognizing Signs of Discomfort

It's crucial to pay attention to your dog's body language when picking them up. They can't verbally tell you if something hurts, but they will give you clues through their behavior. Some common signs of discomfort include:

Whining or whimpering: This is a clear indication that your dog is experiencing pain or distress.
Tense muscles: If your dog's body feels stiff or rigid, they may be bracing themselves against discomfort.
Tail tucked between legs: This is a sign of fear or anxiety.
Ears pinned back: This indicates that your dog is feeling threatened or uncomfortable.
Lip licking or yawning: These can be subtle signs of stress.
Growling or snapping: This is a warning sign that your dog is feeling overwhelmed and may bite if pushed further.

If you notice any of these signs while picking up your dog, immediately stop and reassess your technique. It's always better to err on the side of caution and put your dog down gently if they seem uncomfortable.

General Guidelines for Lifting Any Dog

No matter the size or breed of your dog, there are some basic principles that apply to all lifting situations. These guidelines will help you ensure a safe and comfortable experience for both you and your furry friend.

Approach Calmly and Confidently

Dogs are incredibly sensitive to our energy and emotions. If you approach them hesitantly or anxiously, they will pick up on that and may become nervous themselves. Instead, approach your dog calmly and confidently, speaking to them in a soothing tone. This will help them feel more relaxed and trusting.

Avoid sudden movements or loud noises, as these can startle your dog and make them resistant to being picked up. Instead, move slowly and deliberately, giving your dog time to adjust to your presence. You might even want to offer them a treat or a few gentle pets before attempting to lift them, to help them associate the experience with positive reinforcement.

Use a Two-Handed Approach

Always use both hands when lifting a dog. This provides better support and stability, reducing the risk of injury. One hand should go under the dog's chest, supporting their front legs, while the other hand goes under their hindquarters, supporting their rear legs. This distributes the dog's weight evenly and prevents strain on any one part of their body.

Think of it like lifting a baby: you wouldn't lift a baby with just one hand, would you? Dogs deserve the same level of care and support. Using both hands ensures that your dog feels secure and balanced in your arms.

Lift with Your Legs, Not Your Back

This is a crucial tip for protecting your own back. Just like when lifting any heavy object, you should bend your knees and keep your back straight when picking up a dog. This engages your leg muscles, which are much stronger than your back muscles, and reduces the strain on your spine.

Imagine you're doing a squat: that's the motion you should be aiming for when lifting a dog. Keep your core engaged and your back straight as you lift, and avoid twisting or bending at the waist. This will help you prevent back pain and injuries, so you can continue to enjoy playing and cuddling with your dog for years to come.

Hold the Dog Close to Your Body

Once you've lifted the dog, keep them close to your body. This provides them with a sense of security and stability, and it also makes it easier for you to maintain your balance. Holding the dog away from your body puts more strain on your arms and back, and it can also make the dog feel less secure.

Think of it as giving your dog a hug: the closer you hold them, the more secure and comforted they will feel. This is especially important for smaller dogs, who may feel vulnerable when suspended in the air.

Lower the Dog Gently

Lowering a dog is just as important as lifting them. Avoid dropping or plopping the dog down, as this can cause injury and fear. Instead, slowly bend your knees and lower the dog gently to the ground, maintaining your grip until all four paws are safely on the floor.

Talk to your dog in a soothing voice as you lower them, reassuring them that they are safe. You might even want to offer them a treat once they're on the ground, to reinforce the positive association with being picked up and put down.

Specific Techniques for Different Dog Sizes

While the general guidelines apply to all dogs, the specific techniques you use may vary depending on the dog's size and weight. Here's a breakdown of how to pick up different sizes of dogs:

Small Dogs (Under 20 Pounds)

Small dogs are generally easier to lift than larger dogs, but it's still important to use the proper technique. Here's how to safely pick up a small dog:

Approach calmly and crouch down to the dog's level. This makes you less intimidating and allows you to communicate with the dog more easily.
Place one hand under the dog's chest, behind their front legs.
Place your other hand under their hindquarters, supporting their rear legs.
Lift gently, keeping the dog close to your body.
Lower the dog slowly and gently to the ground.

Pro Tip: For very small dogs, you can also use a scooping motion to lift them. Place one hand under their chest and the other hand under their belly, then gently scoop them up into your arms.

Medium-Sized Dogs (20-50 Pounds)

Medium-sized dogs require a bit more effort to lift, but the same principles apply. Here's how to pick up a medium-sized dog safely:

Approach the dog calmly and stand beside them.
Bend your knees and keep your back straight.
Reach one arm under the dog's chest, behind their front legs.
Reach your other arm around their hindquarters, supporting their rear legs.
Lift with your legs, keeping the dog close to your body.
Lower the dog slowly and gently to the ground.

Pro Tip: If the dog is particularly heavy or wiggly, you may need to enlist the help of another person to lift them safely.

Large Dogs (Over 50 Pounds)

Lifting large dogs can be challenging, and it's important to prioritize safety for both you and the dog. If you have any back problems or physical limitations, it's best to avoid lifting large dogs altogether. Here's how to pick up a large dog safely, if necessary:

Assess the situation: Is it truly necessary to lift the dog? Can you use an alternative method, such as a ramp or stairs?
If lifting is necessary, enlist the help of another person. Two people can distribute the weight more evenly and make the process safer.
Each person should stand on either side of the dog.
Bend your knees and keep your backs straight.
Each person should reach one arm under the dog's chest and the other arm around their hindquarters.
Lift on a count of three, coordinating your movements to ensure a smooth and even lift.
Keep the dog close to your bodies and walk slowly and deliberately.
Lower the dog slowly and gently to the ground.

Pro Tip: For large dogs who need assistance getting into a car, you can use a ramp or a specialized dog-lifting harness. These tools can make the process much safer and easier for both you and your dog.

Special Considerations

In some situations, you may need to modify your lifting technique to accommodate specific needs or conditions. Here are some special considerations to keep in mind:

Puppies

Puppies are especially delicate and require extra care when being handled. Their bones and joints are still developing, making them more susceptible to injury. Always use a gentle, two-handed approach when lifting a puppy, and support their entire body.

Avoid lifting puppies by their front legs or scruff, as this can cause pain and injury. It's also important to supervise children when they are handling puppies, to ensure they are using the proper techniques.

Senior Dogs

Senior dogs may have arthritis or other joint problems that make lifting uncomfortable or painful. Be extra gentle when handling senior dogs, and avoid any sudden movements. You may need to support their joints more carefully and lift them more slowly.

Consider using a lifting harness or towel sling to provide extra support for senior dogs. These tools can help distribute their weight more evenly and reduce strain on their joints. If your senior dog is in significant pain, it's best to consult with your veterinarian about the safest way to handle them.

Dogs with Injuries or Medical Conditions

If your dog has an injury or a medical condition, such as a broken bone, spinal injury, or recent surgery, it's crucial to handle them with extreme care. Follow your veterinarian's instructions for lifting and handling, and avoid putting any pressure on the injured area.

You may need to modify your lifting technique to accommodate the injury. For example, if your dog has a broken leg, you'll need to support the leg carefully and avoid putting any weight on it. In some cases, it may be best to avoid lifting the dog altogether and find alternative ways to help them move around.

Pregnant Dogs

Pregnant dogs are more sensitive and require extra care. Avoid putting any pressure on their abdomen, and lift them gently and slowly. You may need to support their belly with one hand while lifting them with the other.

It's generally best to avoid lifting pregnant dogs unless it's absolutely necessary. If you must lift them, be sure to use a gentle and supportive technique, and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Training Your Dog to Be Picked Up

One of the best ways to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for both you and your dog is to train them to be picked up. This involves gradually exposing your dog to the process of being lifted, using positive reinforcement to create a positive association. Here's a step-by-step guide to training your dog to be picked up:

Start by getting your dog comfortable with being touched. Gently pet them all over their body, including their chest, hindquarters, and legs. Reward them with treats and praise for remaining calm and relaxed.
Next, practice the hand placement. Place your hands under your dog's chest and hindquarters, as if you were going to lift them, but don't actually lift them. Reward them with treats and praise for staying still.
Gradually increase the amount of time you hold your hands in position. Start with just a few seconds, and gradually work your way up to longer periods.
Once your dog is comfortable with the hand placement, start lifting them a few inches off the ground. Reward them with treats and praise for staying calm and relaxed.
Gradually increase the height of the lift until you can lift them completely off the ground.
Practice lowering your dog gently to the ground. Reward them with treats and praise for staying calm and relaxed.
Repeat the process regularly, using positive reinforcement to maintain your dog's positive association with being picked up.

Pro Tip: If your dog shows any signs of anxiety or discomfort during the training process, stop and reassess your approach. You may need to slow down the process or break it down into smaller steps.

Conclusion

Picking up a dog correctly is essential for their safety, comfort, and well-being. By following the guidelines and techniques outlined in this guide, you can ensure a positive experience for both you and your furry friend. Remember to always approach your dog calmly and confidently, use a two-handed approach, lift with your legs, and lower the dog gently. Pay attention to your dog's body language, and be prepared to modify your technique to accommodate their specific needs or conditions. With practice and patience, you can master the art of picking up a dog properly and strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion. So go ahead, guys, give your furry friend a safe and loving lift!