How to Hold a Dachshund

Dachshunds are loyal, playful dogs, and this makes them perfect for families with kids. Unfortunately, they are also prone to vertebral column injuries because of their long spinal columns and short rib cages. You can reduce your dachshund's risk for spinal injury by learning how to hold it properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Slide your hand under the dog's chest. The dachshund is much heavier in the front of its body, causing it to tip forward if picked up from the back. Support its chest at all times.

2. Wrap the other hand around the dachshund's bottom. A dachshund is long and requires two hands to hold it or it can fall and break its back. You are now holding the dachshund in the "football hold."

3. Hold the dachshund close to your chest. This will prevent her from jumping or falling out of your arms. She will also feel more secure if you hold her close to you and be less likely to jump.

4. Set the dog down gently on the floor when you want to put him down. His back legs should be the first to touch the ground, and then slowly lower his upper body down to the ground. Remove your arm only after all four legs are on the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Always hold a dachshund with its back horizontal to the ground to prevent back pain and injury.
• Monitor young children when they hold a dachshund, so they do not toss the dog down. Show them how to properly hold a Dachshund and place it on the ground.

[Alise42]

on 9/17/2008 Addendum under "Tips & Warnings": Twisting movements should be avoided at all costs when setting the dachshund down. This kind of movement causes more injuries to the dachshund's spine than any other.