The Beautiful Benefits of Picking Up Your Small Dog š¶
Picking up your small dog can be an incredibly comforting experience for them!
Just like carrying a baby or toddler, there are situations where being held helps them better navigate both their surroundings and emotions. š¾
There's a common misconception in the dog industry that picking up your dog spoils them or encourages unwanted behaviours. However, if you mostly pick them up when theyāre calm and relaxed, you reinforce those feelings, making future pick-ups a calming experience.
Sometimes, staying on the ground is overwhelming for dogs, no matter how well-trained or capable they are. We all have our limits and comfort levels. Whether itās a narrow street, a busy hallway, or a crowded elevator with another dog, certain situations can be too much for them (and us!) to handle.
In these moments, picking up your dog can make a big difference. Whether theyāre feeling uneasy, another dog is struggling, or kids are approaching to interact, lifting them can reassure your dog and allow them to take a break from feeling like they have to do anything other than just sit back and relax.
It also has the power to teach them that these potentially stressful triggers mean and can lead to bonding time with you, making it easier for them to manage their emotions, in the future whether they're in your arms or on the ground.
So don't be afraid to pick up your little one the next time you feel like you need to, but even more so, pick them up just because you love them and want to let them enjoy being close to you.