Owning a small dog comes with its own set of joys and quirks. One of the first things many new owners figure out quickly is that carrying a little dog isn’t as simple as scooping them like a grocery bag.
Small dogs may look light and easy to handle, but the way you pick them up and hold them can actually affect their comfort and safety.
I once saw a young boy at the park carrying his tiny Chihuahua like a stuffed toy, legs dangling with zero support.
The dog looked uncomfortable and stiff.
Moments like that remind us that carrying a small pup takes more care than people often think.
Correct Way To Pick Up A Small Dog
When you want to lift your little buddy, always aim to support both the chest and the back end. Slide one hand under their chest just behind the front legs, and use your other hand to scoop their back legs and rump.
Then lift smoothly while keeping them close to your body. This gives them balance and security.
Holding them this way makes them feel safe because their weight is evenly spread out. They won’t wiggle around nervously or try to jump from your arms, which is common if they don’t feel supported.
Supporting The Spine And Legs
Small breeds like Yorkies or Maltese have delicate bones, so their back and joints need proper support
If you only grab them under the arms, their spine can bend in awkward ways. That’s uncomfortable and risky for them, especially as they age.
Think of it like carrying a toddler. You wouldn’t just yank a kid up by the armpits and let their legs dangle, right? The same care goes for your pup. Support under the chest and legs helps protect their little bodies.
Common Mistakes People Make
One big mistake people make is treating small dogs like plush toys. Lifting by the scruff or grabbing under the arms might feel natural, but it’s stressful for them. Some even try to hold dogs like babies on their back, which can be uncomfortable.
Another mistake is holding them too loosely. If your dog wiggles out of your arms, they could land hard and injure themselves. Even a short drop from your arms is a big fall for a five-pound dog.
Carrying Puppies Versus Adults
Carrying a puppy isn’t quite the same as holding an adult small dog. Puppies are wiggly, floppy, and not used to being carried yet.
Always use two hands, keep them close to your chest, and avoid letting kids carry very young pups unsupervised.
Adult dogs may be calmer, but they can still squirm if nervous. Supporting their full body weight while keeping them close will prevent accidents and make them feel snug and safe.
Handling Anxious Or Fearful Dogs
Some rescue dogs or shy pups may panic when you try to pick them up. For them, it’s best to move slowly. Approach calmly, crouch to their level, and let them sniff you first. When you lift, do it smoothly without sudden jerks.
A nervous dog might stiffen or tuck their tail. Speak softly and hold them close so they feel reassured. Over time, they’ll learn being carried isn’t something to fear.
Teaching Calm Behavior When Being Lifted
Dogs don’t automatically know how to stay still when picked up. You can train them to relax by pairing lifting with calm praise and treats. Start with short lifts off the ground, reward them, and put them back down.
As they get comfortable, they’ll learn being carried means comfort and safety, not stress. This is especially helpful for vet visits when you need them to cooperate.
Signs Your Dog Doesn’t Want To Be Carried
Not every small dog enjoys being carried, and it’s important to notice their signals. If your dog squirms, growls, stiffens up, or avoids being picked up, they’re telling you they’d rather stay on the ground.
Some dogs will tolerate it briefly but show stress by licking their lips or turning their head away. If you see these signs, respect their limits and only carry them when necessary.
Safety Tips For Kids Carrying Dogs
Kids love carrying small dogs around like dolls, but it’s not always safe. A child might not have the strength or awareness to support the dog’s body properly. This can lead to injuries if the pup slips or the child accidentally squeezes too hard.
If children want to hold the dog, have them sit on the floor or couch and let the pup rest on their lap instead. That way, everyone stays safe and happy.
Carrying During Emergencies Or Vet Visits
Sometimes you don’t have a choice and need to pick up your dog quickly. During vet visits, storms, or if they get injured, proper lifting is critical. Always support both ends of their body and avoid squeezing their chest too tightly.
If your dog is injured, you might need to use a towel or blanket as a sling to safely move them without causing more pain. Staying calm during these moments helps your dog stay calm too.
Using Carriers, Slings, And Backpacks
If you travel often or live in a city, dog carriers or slings can be lifesavers. They let you carry your pup hands-free while keeping them secure.
Small backpacks designed for dogs also make long walks easier for both of you.
These options are especially useful for senior owners or people who may struggle holding a squirmy pup for long periods.
Just make sure the carrier is well-padded and your dog has enough room to sit comfortably.
When To Avoid Carrying
It’s tempting to carry a small dog everywhere, but too much can keep them from getting exercise. Dogs still need to walk, sniff, and explore. Carrying should be about safety and necessity, not a full-time replacement for walking.
Also, avoid carrying them in crowded situations where they could get overwhelmed. Sometimes letting them stay on the ground gives them more confidence and independence.
Ergonomic Lifting For Older Or Mobility Limited Owners
Pick up technique matters for the human as much as the dog. Bend your knees not your back, bring the pup close to your chest, and use a stable chair to sit if you need extra support while lifting.
Small changes like switching which arm you use, keeping the pup close to your center of gravity, and using a simple step stool for low dogs cut down on strain and keep both of you safer over the long haul.
Carrying Multiple Small Dogs Safely
Sometimes you need to move two small dogs at once and that can get awkward quick.
The trick is to distribute weight evenly, one in each arm with support under both rears, or use a sturdy tote and stagger exits so nobody bolts, but never stack dogs one on top of the other.
Rotate who you carry and take short rests between moves so your grip stays steady and the dogs do not scramble or panic.
Navigating Stairs, Narrow Doorways, And Tight Hallways While Carrying
Stairs and narrow spaces change the game because your footing matters more than ever. Turn your body to face the stairs, take slow, deliberate steps, and keep the dog high and close so you can see each tread.
If space is really tight, set the pup down in a safe spot and guide them through rather than forcing a squeeze while you struggle with balance.
Public Transport Etiquette And Safety For Carried Dogs
Buses and trains are full of surprises and other passengers who may not love dogs as much as you do.
Keep your small dog calm on your lap or in a compact sling that allows quick control, choose less crowded times when you can, and always have bags and wipes ready for any emergency.
A quick heads up to nearby riders and a respectful attitude go a long way to avoid stressful confrontations.
Managing Heat And Cold When Carrying Small Dogs
Weather can turn a comfy carry into a health risk fast for tiny dogs. In hot weather keep your pup shaded and off hot surfaces, offer water regularly, and avoid long holds that block airflow.
In cold weather protect paws and ears and wrap them in a breathable cover if you will be outside for a while, because small dogs lose heat fast when they are not moving.
Carrying While Exercising: Jogging, Cycling, And Active Outings
Carrying a dog while you jog or cycle is asking for trouble unless you use proper equipment and short bursts only.
If you must take a quick run with a pup in your arms, keep speeds low, avoid uneven terrain, and stop often so the dog can rest and reorient
For regular active outings, plan routes where the dog can safely walk or ride in a purpose built carrier rather than being held while you move fast.
Handling Jumpers And Escape Prone Small Dogs
Some little dogs are escape artists and will twist and wriggle the moment you lift them. Have a plan: distract with a treat or a calm cue, scoop them with one hand under the chest and the other supporting the rear, and tuck them close until they settle.
If they repeatedly try to jump, invest time in short training sessions that reward calm lifts so they learn staying still is better than the squirm.
Postural Tips To Prevent Owner Injuries
Your posture while carrying affects how long you can hold a dog and how safe you both are. Keep shoulders relaxed, core engaged, and switch arms every few minutes to stop one side getting fatigued.
Simple daily stretches for the lower back and shoulders help owners who carry frequently and reduce the chance of a pulled muscle or a slipped hold.
Building Trust Through Carrying
Carrying your dog isn’t just physical. It’s emotional too. When you lift them safely and hold them securely, they learn to trust you more. Each time you do it right, you’re building confidence between you and your pup.
That trust makes life easier in the long run. From grooming sessions to vet trips, they’ll be more willing to let you handle them without fear.
Final Thoughts
Carrying a small dog may look simple, but doing it the right way makes a big difference. Supporting their body, paying attention to their comfort, and using tools like carriers when needed all add up to safer and happier pups.
Every small dog parent eventually finds their own rhythm, but the basics remain the same: be gentle, be mindful, and always think of your dog’s comfort first.
So the next time you scoop up your little one, will you carry them the safe and comfy way?