How To Properly Carry Your Senior Dog

As our beloved dogs age, they tend to face mobility issues and sometimes physical discomfort.  Some dogs can walk on their own and continue to jump on the bed and even run up the stairs. However, if your dog is arthritic or has any mobility issues, it can be helpful to know how to properly carry your pup.

Whether it’s for getting into the car, climbing stairs, or simply offering comfort, carrying a senior dog requires the proper care and technique.  Therefore, knowing the proper way to carry a senior dog can help reduce their pain and prevent further injury.

You also might want to pick up your dog if you are on a long walk and your dog stops because he is tired and needs to rest.

Understanding Your Dog’s Physical Condition

Before carrying your senior dog, it’s important to assess the need and understand their physical condition. Some senior dogs may experience arthritis, hip dysplasia, or muscle weakness, making it difficult for them to move around. As with any new physical condition, it can be important to understand your dog’s special needs and talk to your veterinarian to determine if and when carrying them is necessary.

Preparing to Carry Your Dog

As you prepare to carry your dog, make sure that your environment is calm and free from distractions. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle your dog, making it harder to carry them safely.

Communication is Key

Try speaking to your dog in a soothing voice. Let them know you’re there to help. This can help to reduce your dog’s anxiety and make the process smoother.

How to Position Yourself to Carry Your Dog

Stand or kneel beside your dog. Position yourself to make sure that you can lift your dog comfortably without straining your back.  Utilizing the proper technique is important to prevent injury to both you and your dog.

Techniques for Carrying Your Senior Dog

1. Small to Medium-Sized Dogs

For small to medium-sized senior dogs, try the following:

Support the Chest and Hindquarters:

Place one hand under your dog's chest, just behind the front legs. Use your other hand to support their hindquarters, just in front of the back legs.

Lift Gently:

With a firm but gentle grip, lift your dog smoothly and close to your body. This prevents your dog from feeling insecure or wobbly.

Hold Close:

Keep your dog close to your chest to provide the proper support and security. Avoid any sudden movements that could startle your dog.

2. Carrying A Large Dog with Two People

For large senior dogs, it’s often helpful to have a second person assist you:

Two-Person Lift:

Have one person support the dog's chest while the other supports the hindquarters.

Use a Towel or Blanket:

Place a sturdy towel or blanket under your dog’s abdomen. Each person can hold one end of the towel, lifting your dog in a hammock-like fashion. This provides even support and reduces the pressure on any one area of the body.

Lift Together:

Coordinate with your helper to lift simultaneously. Communication is key to ensure a smooth and gentle lift.

3. Carrying A Large Dog with One Person

If you have to carry your dog on your own, here a are a few tips.

Bend your knees: Bend your knees instead of your waist. 

Support the dog's chest: Wrap one arm around the front of the dog's chest, below the throat but in front of the front legs. This supports the dog's chest.

Support the dog's butt: Wrap your other arm around the dog's back legs, below the tail and at mid-thigh. This supports the dog's butt/rump.

Lift with your legs: Use your legs to lift the dog, not your back.

Hold the dog against your chest: As you lift, hold the dog against your chest.

Avoid putting the dog upright: When you stand up, keep the dog at a 30–45 degree angle to the ground so their spine isn't compressed.

Be careful: If your dog shows any discomfort, gently set him or her down and be careful not to hurt yourself!

 How to Pick Up a Senior Dog with Arthritis or Hip Problems

Senior dogs and dogs with chronic conditions need extra care and attention, especially when picking them up. It's important to lift them without aggravating existing issues like a sore back or injured leg.

For small dogs with chronic issues, using a carrier is often the best method. Avoid picking them up by their front legs.

For some dogs with hip or arthritis conditions, you can gently lift them by supporting their chest with one arm and their back with the other. Always check with your dog to see if your dog seems comfortable before lifting them.

Some Other Things to Consider:

Use a Dog Lift Harness:

You should Consider using a dog lift harness, which is specifically designed to help carry and support senior dogs. These harnesses distribute weight evenly and provide handles for easy lifting.

Maintain Proper Posture:

Always bend your knees and keep your back straight while lifting. This reduces the risk of injury to yourself.

Watch Your Dog for Discomfort:

Pay attention to your dog’s signals. If your dog shows any sign of discomfort or pain, stop and reassess. Adjust your technique as needed.

After carrying your senior dog, gently place them down in a comfortable position. Make sure your pup has access to water and a cozy spot to rest.

As our dogs age, they sometimes need our assistance. Look to your dog to see how he or she feels about carrying him or her. Be careful and make sure both you and your dog are comfortable.