06/08/2026
I had to share this for laughs. Who can carry their great dane?!
Although I thought I would share the yes and no's of how to properly pick up and carry your dog.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BUfLLBn3D/
Great Danes are architectural marvels of the canine world, possessing a stature that commands respect and admiration. However, this impressive size comes with a skeletal fragility that many owners do not fully realize until an emergency occurs. The infographic detailing the "Good Hold" versus the "Poor Hold" is an essential piece of educational material because it addresses the unique anatomical challenges of the breed. Unlike smaller dogs whose compact frames can handle being scooped up under the belly, a Great Dane’s long spine and deep chest make them highly susceptible to injury if handled incorrectly. Because they are prone to conditions like Hip Dysplasia and Intervertebral Disc Disease, every time a human interacts with their physical frame, it must be done with an understanding of weight distribution and spinal alignment.
When an owner attempts a "Poor Hold," as shown in the top illustration, they are inadvertently putting the dog’s health at risk. Lifting a giant breed by the midsection causes the spine to sag in the middle, creating what is known as long spine compression. This puts immense pressure on the vertebrae and can cause excruciating pain or even permanent nerve damage. Furthermore, the "unsupported hanging" method places extreme pressure on the ribcage. For a breed that is famously prone to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, or "Bloat," any unnecessary pressure on the chest and abdomen can be catastrophic. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, and a stressed dog being lifted improperly is at a higher risk of experiencing internal distress. The red indicators in the diagram show how tension radiates from the neck to the lower back when the dog's limbs are allowed to dangle, proving that a lack of support is a recipe for physical trauma.
In contrast, the "Good Hold" or "Full Body Support" method is a technique that mimics the stability of a shelf. This requires the person to use their entire arm to create a level platform under the dog’s chest and rump. By supporting the dog behind the front legs and behind the back legs, the spine remains in a natural, horizontal position. This distribution of weight ensures that the ribcage is not squeezed and the abdomen remains free, allowing the dog to breathe easily and stay calm. This is not just a physical act; it is a communication of safety. When a dog feels that their weight is fully supported, they are less likely to struggle, which in turn prevents the person carrying them from sustaining their own injuries. Training a Great Dane from puppyhood to be comfortable with this kind of handling is vital. It prepares them for vet visits, grooming, or emergency situations where they might be too weak to walk. Ultimately, being a Great Dane owner means being a guardian of their structure, ensuring that their giant bodies are handled with the same gentleness that defines their personalities.
