The Golden Rule for Dogs: How to Lift and Handle Them Safely
Understanding how to properly lift and handle your dog is critical for their physical safety, emotional comfort, and your own well-being. Whether you own a tiny pup or a large breed, knowing when and how to pick them up avoids injury and distress. This article outlines the golden rule for lifting dogs, explains safe techniques, and highlights what to avoid.
When It’s Necessary to Pick Up a Dog
Dogs are usually best allowed to walk independently. However, there are times when picking them up becomes necessary, including:
- Helping a dog into or out of a vehicle.
- Placing them on an exam table at the vet.
- Rescuing them from danger, such as traffic or aggressive dogs.
- Managing injured, fearful, or reactive dogs in stressful settings.
Improper Lifting Techniques to Avoid
The following methods can cause serious injury and emotional distress to your dog and should always be avoided:
- By the Legs: Never lift a dog by their front or back limbs. This can lead to sprains, ligament tears, or dislocations.
- By the Scruff: Although mother dogs carry puppies this way briefly, it is dangerous and inappropriate for older puppies and adult dogs.
- By the Collar or Tail: Pulling on a collar can damage the trachea, while the tail contains nerves and is not designed for lifting.
Reading Signs of Discomfort or Stress
Dogs may not always vocalize pain. Look for subtle stress signals if you suspect discomfort while lifting:
- Yawning or lip licking.
- Avoiding eye contact.
- Struggling or attempting to flee.
- General body tension or trembling.
Proper Technique for Small to Medium Dogs (Under 40 Pounds)
For small breeds or dogs under 40 pounds, follow these steps:
- Slide your dominant arm under the chest between the front legs.
- Use your other arm to support the hindquarters and hold the dog against your body.
- Alternatively, cradle the dog with one arm around the chest and the other behind the back legs, ensuring they feel secure and balanced.
- Use a verbal cue like "lift-up" and a gentle touch to signal your intent before lifting.
Techniques for Lifting Large Dogs (Over 40 Pounds)
Lifting large dogs often requires two people. Here's how to do it safely:
- One person should support the chest; the other lifts the back end or abdomen.
- Coordinate the lift to keep the dog’s spine aligned and level.
- If the dog is injured, use a towel or blanket as a sling or stretcher for additional support.
- Always bend at the knees and use your legs, not your back, to lift the weight.
Assisting Nervous or Injured Dogs
Picking up anxious or injured dogs requires special care:
- Wait until they are calm before attempting to lift.
- Use a towel or short leash for controlled movement.
- Consider a muzzle to prevent accidental bites if in pain.
- Never lift a pregnant dog by the belly; support from underneath both chest and rear is critical.
- Ask for help when dealing with large or severely injured dogs.
Alternatives and Training Tips
If your dog dislikes being picked up, consider these alternative approaches:
- Train them to hop onto a bench or other raised surface when needed.
- Use positive reinforcement and cues to make lifting a relaxed experience.
- Be mindful in public settings, as holding a small dog may attract attention from curious or aggressive larger dogs.
Summary: The Golden Rule
Always ensure your dog feels safe, supported, and prepared when lifting them. The golden rule is to lift by supporting both the chest and back end, never by limbs, scruff, collar, or tail. Use verbal cues, observe stress signals, and when in doubt or dealing with a large dog, ask for assistance. By respecting your dog’s comfort and safety, you build trust and prevent injury for both of you.
