How to Tame and Handle Your Dog Properly
Learn the right techniques to pick up and build trust with your dog, ensuring a stress-free experience.
1. The Correct Physical Pickup
When picking up a dog, always approach from the front. For small breeds like Chihuahuas, gently scoop them up under the chest with one hand. For larger breeds like Great Danes, use both hands to support their front legs and gently lift them. This method ensures their spine is properly aligned and reduces the risk of injury.
Support their hindquarters with your other hand to maintain balance. Avoid lifting by the neck or back, as this can cause discomfort or injury. For dogs of any size, always keep your movements slow and gentle.
- Approach from the front
- Scoop small breeds under the chest
- Use both hands for large breeds
- Support hindquarters
- Avoid lifting by neck or back
- Keep movements slow and gentle
2. Building Trust: A Step-by-Step Sequence
Start by allowing your dog to sniff you, as this is a natural way for them to gather information and feel secure. Spend at least 5 minutes per session letting them explore your scent.
Offer treats while they are sniffing to create positive associations. After a few minutes, gently pet them on the head or neck. Gradually increase the duration of petting sessions.
Once your dog is comfortable with you, introduce the idea of handling by gently touching their paws, then their legs, and finally their entire body. Always proceed at your dog's pace.
- Allow sniffing for 5 minutes
- Offer treats during sniffing
- Gently pet head or neck
- Gradually increase petting duration
- Gently touch paws and legs
- Gradually handle entire body
3. When Not to Handle Your Dog
Never handle your dog immediately after feeding, as they may be uncomfortable or sleepy. Wait at least 30 minutes to allow them to digest.
Avoid handling during shedding seasons, as it can be stressful for them. This typically occurs twice a year for most breeds.
Do not handle your dog when they are asleep or in a resting state. This is their time to recharge and should be respected.
Never rush the handling process. Take your time to build trust and avoid creating negative associations.
- Wait 30 minutes after feeding
- Avoid handling during shedding seasons
- Respect their sleep time
- Take your time, avoid rushing
4. Stress Signals to Watch For
Look for signs of stress such as panting, whining, or trembling. These can indicate that your dog is not comfortable with the handling.
If your dog's ears are pulled back, eyes are wide, or they are trying to escape, these are clear stress signals. It's important to stop and reassess the situation.
Observe their body language. A relaxed dog will have a wagging tail, soft eyes, and a relaxed posture. If these signals are not present, it's a sign to slow down or stop the handling.
- Watch for panting, whining, trembling
- Ears pulled back, wide eyes, trying to escape
- Observe tail wagging, soft eyes, relaxed posture
Keep reading about Dog: Dog care sheet
Related questions
How often should I handle my puppy during the taming process?
Start with short sessions of 5 minutes per day and gradually increase as your puppy becomes more comfortable.
Can I use treats to help my dog trust me during handling?
Absolutely, treats can be a powerful tool. Offer them during sniffing and petting sessions to create positive associations.
What should I do if my dog shows signs of stress during handling?
Stop the handling immediately and reassess the situation. Give your dog time to calm down and try again later.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your dog is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.