Page 303 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

HANDLING Y OUR DOG 303

PLENTY OF SUPPORT
When lifting both large and
small dogs, support them front
and back and hold them close
to your body.
support his front and back, praise
your dog, and hold him without
lifting him. Reward him with a treat
for standing still. Gradually increase the length of time you
hold him before gently lifting him just off the ground.
Immediately put him down and reward him with a treat.
Small breeds and puppies are relatively easy for one
person to pick up. Larger breeds, however, should not be
lifted by one person alone. Any dog over 33 lb (15 kg)
requires two people to lift it—one at the front and one at the
You may notice that he suddenly stiffens when you lift up back. Dogs can move suddenly, causing strain to the person
his tail, for example, or growls when you try to pick up his lifting them; they also risk being dropped, undoing hours of
paw. If this is the case, and on checking there is no sign he is patient training and causing problems for the future. When
hurt, use treats to gradually build up the amount of handling you lift, bend from the knees to
your dog will tolerate. Stiffening and growling are signs of avoid back injury and check
aggression and, if they go unheeded, may result in a bite. that there are no obstacles on
Always get advice from a professional behavior counselor the path to your destination.
to help a reluctant dog accept being handled.
Lifting your dog GENTLE SLOPE
A dog that is not used to being lifted may panic and react If lifting your dog is impractical,
a ramp is a good alternative,
aggressively if you pick him up, so it is worthwhile to practice particularly to help older dogs
lifting your dog. To begin with, simply place your hands to get into a car.

INSPECTING THE TEETH TOUCHING THE PAWS LIFTING THE TAIL
Gently lift your dog’s lips to check that the Check the pads for sore or broken skin Lift your dog’s tail while you tickle his
gums are pink and there are no signs of and look in between the toes for injuries stomach with your other hand. Ensure that
soreness. His teeth should be white and or swelling. Examine the nails and get them the area below the tail is clean and that
lack excessive tartar deposits. trimmed or clip them yourself if necessary. there are no signs of redness or swelling.

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