Lifting large dogs safely is a key part of my work as I run a small mobile dog-grooming van. Most of my week is spent handling dogs weighing between 20 and 60 kilos—especially those who are older, anxious, or recovering from injury. After learning the hard way that poor technique can hurt both you and the dog, I have developed habits that make the process safer and less stressful.
Understanding the Dog Before You Touch Them
Before I lift, I watch the dog for a minute. Some dogs stiffen when unsure. Others lean in and make things easier. I focus on whether they favor a leg or seem sensitive around the hips. A 45-kilo dog that trusts you is easier to handle than a tense 30-kilo dog.
I also talk in a calm tone and let them smell my hands. If the dog relaxes, the lift is smoother; if tense, I slow down and adjust my approach.
People often rush in from above, which startles most large dogs. I approach from the side and move slowly. This gives better control and reduces sudden reactions once I start the lift.
My Go-To Lifting Technique That Actually Works
I have handled hundreds of large breeds, such as German Shepherds and Labradors. I use one method to keep us safe: one arm under the chest, just behind the front legs, and the other under the hips. I keep my back straight and lift with my legs, not my arms.
I saw a helpful breakdown of how to lift a large dog. It matched what I had learned in the field. The key is balance. Lifting only from the front can make a dog feel unstable and cause it to struggle.
I always pull the dog close before lifting. Distance matters more than people think. Holding a 40-kilo dog even slightly away from your torso strains your lower back. Stay steady.
When Lifting Isn’t the Best Option
Sometimes lifting isn’t right. Older or recovering dogs shouldn’t be picked up unless necessary. I use ramps or support them as they step up.
Last winter, a large Golden Retriever with hip problems needed my help. I used a low ramp and guided him with a towel under his belly. It took three extra minutes, but it prevented discomfort for him and risk for me.
Some dogs panic when lifted. You feel it right away. Their bodies go rigid, and they try to twist away. When that happens, I stop and rethink the approach. I never push through.
Small Adjustments That Make a Big Difference
Foot placement matters. I keep my feet shoulder-width apart and staggered for balance. This helps control the lift and prevents slips if the dog shifts.
Another thing I always check is the surface. Wet floors are dangerous. Even a small patch of water can turn a safe lift into a fall. I learned that lesson early on after slipping slightly while holding a 35-kilo dog. Nothing serious happened, but it was enough to make me more careful.
I adjust my grip for each dog’s body. A Rottweiler feels different from a Greyhound. Grip and stance must match the dog’s shape and weight distribution. There is no single perfect method.
Training Your Body for This Kind of Work
Lifting large dogs is physical work. In my first year, I ignored this and hurt my back for weeks. Now, I treat physical preparation as part of my job.
I focus on strength, especially legs and core. Squats and planks help. You don’t need a gym; a few minutes a day is enough.
Rest matters too. If I’m tired, I slow down and avoid unnecessary lifts. One careless moment can lead to injury and affect my work and the dogs.
Lifting large dogs isn’t about brute strength. It’s about control, timing, and reading each dog. Find balance, and lifting becomes natural and less risky.