How to Hold a Puppy – Dos & Don’ts

Picking up a puppy might seem simple, but improper handling can lead to physical harm or stress, leaving your furry friend anxious and uncomfortable. This not only impacts their trust in you but can also cause long-term issues with bonding. The good news? Learning how to hold a puppy correctly ensures their safety, comfort, and happiness. In this guide, we’ll walk you through expert tips and techniques to master this essential skill.

Why Proper Handling Matters

Properly holding a puppy is essential for their physical safety and emotional well-being. Puppies are delicate, with soft bones and developing muscles that can be easily injured by incorrect handling. Ensuring proper support prevents strain on their fragile bodies and reduces the risk of accidental harm.

Beyond physical safety, handling impacts a puppy’s trust and comfort. Improper techniques can make them anxious, fearful, or resistant to being picked up in the future. When done correctly, however, holding creates a sense of security and strengthens the bond between you and your new furry friend.

How to Hold a Puppy? Step-by-Step Guide

Holding a puppy correctly starts with a calm and gentle approach. Move slowly to avoid startling them, and speak softly to make them feel at ease. Observe their body language for any signs of discomfort, like squirming or whining, before proceeding.

To lift the puppy, place one hand securely under their chest near their front legs. Use your other hand to support their hindquarters, ensuring their body is fully supported. Lift slowly and smoothly, keeping the puppy close to your body to make them feel safe and stable.

While holding, keep the puppy’s body upright and avoid letting their limbs dangle. Adjust your grip as needed to prevent slipping, but always prioritize their comfort and security. Proper technique not only ensures their safety but also strengthens your bond with your furry friend.

Puppy Handling Guidelines by Age

Your strategy for picking up a puppy should always include staying calm and confident and distributing their weight evenly, but Dr. Fernandez-Lopez has some tips for the various ages and stages of puppyhood.

Puppy Handling Guidelines by Breed

Because dog breeds differ in size, temperament, and physical needs, you may have to slightly alter your strategy based on your puppy’s characteristics.

How to Pick Up a Puppy: Dos & Don’ts

Holding a puppy may seem simple, but knowing the right techniques is essential for their safety and comfort. Proper handling helps avoid injuries and builds trust, making your puppy feel secure in your care. On the other hand, improper handling can lead to physical strain, emotional distress, and even long-term aversion to being held. By following some basic guidelines, you can ensure your puppy feels safe and loved. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to do and avoid when holding your furry friend.

Dos – The Proper Way to Pick Up a Puppy

• Support Their Body Properly: Always place one hand under the chest and the other under the hindquarters to provide balanced support. This prevents strain on their developing muscles and bones.
• Keep Movements Gentle: Lift the puppy slowly and avoid sudden movements to make them feel safe and comfortable. Cradle them close to your body to provide warmth and security.
• Pay Attention to Body Language: Look for signs of discomfort, such as squirming or whining, and adjust your hold if necessary. A calm puppy is a comfortable puppy.

Don’ts – The Wrong Way to Pick Up a Puppy

• Never Hold by Limbs or Scruff: Picking up a puppy by their legs, tail, or scruff can cause pain or injury. Puppies lack the muscle strength to support their weight this way.
• Avoid Squeezing Too Tightly: Holding a puppy too firmly can make them feel threatened or cause breathing difficulties. Ensure your grip is secure but gentle.
• Don’t Ignore Discomfort: If the puppy struggles, don’t force them to stay in your arms. Place them back on the ground and try again later to avoid fostering fear or anxiety.

By following these guidelines, you ensure your puppy’s safety while building a trusting relationship. Proper handling promotes confidence and comfort for both you and your furry friend.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

One common mistake is picking up a puppy by their limbs or scruff, which can cause pain and injuries. Instead, always use both hands to fully support their body, with one under their chest and the other under their hindquarters. This distributes their weight evenly and keeps them comfortable.

Another error is holding a puppy too tightly, which can make them feel trapped and anxious. A firm but gentle grip is key to providing security without causing discomfort. Keep their body close to yours to offer warmth and a sense of protection.

Many people overlook signs of stress in puppies, such as squirming, whining, or stiffening. Ignoring these signals can damage trust and make future handling difficult. To fix this, always observe your puppy’s body language and adjust your approach to ensure they feel safe and calm.

Lastly, lifting a puppy abruptly or with jerky movements can startle or harm them. Use slow, steady motions when picking them up or setting them down. This not only prevents injury but also builds their confidence in being handled.

Conclusion

Holding a puppy correctly is essential for both their safety and your bond with them. Proper handling ensures that your puppy feels secure, builds trust, and prevents physical harm. By using gentle, supportive techniques, you can avoid common mistakes and promote a positive experience for both you and your puppy. With these tips, you’ll not only keep your puppy safe but also strengthen your relationship, making every cuddle a joyful and reassuring moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I hold a puppy at a time?

Holding a puppy for extended periods can make them restless or uncomfortable, especially if they are young and still adapting to human interaction. A few minutes at a time is ideal, depending on the puppy’s comfort level and behavior. Always monitor for signs of distress, such as squirming or whining, and give them breaks to move around and explore their surroundings.

Is it safe to hold a puppy while standing?

Yes, it can be safe to hold a puppy while standing as long as you use proper technique. Make sure to fully support their body with both hands and keep them close to your chest to minimize the risk of slipping. Avoid standing on uneven surfaces or engaging in sudden movements, as these increase the chances of an accidental fall, which can harm the puppy.

Can I hold a puppy immediately after feeding them?

It’s best to wait at least 20-30 minutes after feeding before holding your puppy. Holding them too soon after eating can cause discomfort or digestive issues like vomiting, especially if they are lifted in a way that compresses their abdomen. Allow your puppy some time to rest and digest their food before picking them up.

How can I get my puppy used to being held?

To get your puppy comfortable with being held, start by handling them gently for short periods. Use a calm tone and reward them with treats or praise to create positive associations. Gradually increase the duration and frequency of holding as they become more relaxed. This process helps build trust and ensures they feel safe when being picked up.

Is there a right age to start holding a puppy?

You can start holding a puppy as soon as they are a few days old, but extra care is needed for newborns. Their bones and muscles are extremely fragile, and they rely heavily on their mother during this time. For older puppies, begin with gentle handling, ensuring proper support for their developing bodies. Always consider their comfort level and avoid overhandling them.