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You might think you’re showing affection, but your dog could be silently fuming! These wrong holding styles can cause injuries ranging from disabilities to depression. Read on—you’ll be shocked at the risks.
1️⃣ “Baby Lift” Hold
❌ Dangers: Forces the spine into a C-shape, increasing the risk of herniated discs—especially in long-backed breeds like Dachshunds or Corgis. Over time, this can lead to paralysis.
🐶 Dog’s inner thoughts: “Help! My back is breaking! Put me down NOW!”
✅ Correct method: Slide one hand under their hindquarters and the other around their chest, keeping their spine level. This supports their body weight evenly.
2️⃣ Suspending by Front Paws
❌ Dangers: Hanging your dog by their front legs strains their shoulder joints, leading to dislocations, ligament tears, or chronic pain. They may avoid walking altogether due to discomfort.
🐶 Dog’s inner thoughts: “Am I a grocery bag? This hurts like crazy!”
✅ Correct method: Support their hind legs at the thigh (not just the paws) while letting their front paws rest gently on your shoulder. This distributes weight to their stronger hind muscles.
3️⃣ “Armpit Helicopter” Hold
❌ Dangers: Gripping tightly under the armpits compresses their chest, restricting breathing—small breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkies are especially vulnerable to suffocation. It can also bruise their ribs or cause skin irritation.
🐶 Dog’s inner thoughts: “I can’t breathe! This is worse than a bear hug!”
✅ Correct method: Cradle their midsection (just behind the front legs) with one arm, leaving space for their chest to expand. Use your other hand to steady their rear.
4️⃣ Forced “Princess Carry”
❌ Dangers: Lifting them horizontally with their belly exposed triggers anxiety in most dogs—they 本能地 (instinctively) protect their vulnerable underbelly. This can lead to stress, defensive nipping, or long-term fear of being touched.
🐶 Dog’s inner thoughts: “Why are you exposing my stomach? I feel unsafe!”
✅ Correct method: Hold them close to your body, sideways, with one arm supporting their back and the other tucking their belly gently against you. This hides their underbelly while keeping them secure.
5️⃣ Spinning or Swinging Holds
❌ Dangers: Twirling or lifting your dog in playful swings disrupts their inner ear balance, causing dizziness, vomiting, or even brain trauma in puppies. It also terrifies them—fear can escalate into aggression.
🐶 Dog’s inner thoughts: “Stop spinning! I’m gonna throw up… and then bite you!”
✅ Correct method: Keep holds calm and stationary. Limit lifting to 30 seconds, and set them down gently when they show signs of discomfort (whining, squirming).
Why This Matters
Dogs can’t tell you when they’re in pain, but these holds send clear signals: whimpering, tensed muscles, or trying to escape. Over time, repeated discomfort erodes trust, leading to behavioral issues like hiding, growling, or avoiding interaction.
The goal of holding your dog should be to make them feel safe, not scared. By supporting their spine, protecting their joints, and respecting their boundaries, you’ll turn “hugs” into moments of connection—ones they’ll actually enjoy.
After all, a happy dog is one that feels secure in your arms. 🐾
