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How to Properly Carry a Dachshund?
In general, the dachshund is a dog breed that does not suffer from health issues if it gets enough exercise and eats the right portion sizes.
The average life expectancy of this splendid dog breed is between 10 and 16 years. However, due to its physiology, the dachshund is prone to back disc problems.
If you are vigilant with your pup from an early age, your dachshund can live a long, happy, and healthy life 😊!
In this article, we give you 5 tips to take care of your sausage dog’s back, and you can also find a video below from our YouTube channel that shows you how to properly carry a dachshund.
On the same topic, check out our complete guide: how to transport a dachshund.
1. Lift Your Dachshund Correctly
As shown in the video above, it is extremely important to know how to carry a dachshund the right way (the same applies to puppies).
Knowing how to lift them can make a huge difference to their back health.
– Place one hand under your dachshund’s chest (thorax).
– Place your other hand under the dachshund’s rear (rump).
Gently lift your dog and hold them close to your chest.
When putting them down, be sure to do so gently and avoid dropping them or letting them jump from your arms.
Tip: To avoid hurting your own back, remember to use your legs to lift from the ground rather than bending your back (like a squat exercise in weight training).
2. Don’t Let Your Dachshund Strain Their Back on Stairs
Make sure your dachshund does not have access to stairs… whether in the garden, in front of the house, or even inside the home.
Climbing stairs puts excessive pressure on the intervertebral discs of this breed and can put a severe strain on their spine.
Don’t hesitate to carry them to relieve their back.
Tip: It is recommended to build or buy a ramp, block the stairs with a special dog gate, or simply supervise your dachshund so they don’t climb stairs often.
3. Monitor Your Dog’s Weight
If you cannot feel your dog’s ribs, they are overweight.
The dachshund’s spine will be under great strain if they are overweight, which can lead to intervertebral disc disease.
Check your dog’s food: The kibble packaging usually indicates the amount of food a dog of a certain weight should eat daily, but you can also ask their canine specialist (veterinarian) directly.
An ideal combination of exercise and reducing food portions should help your dachshund reach their ideal weight.
Tip: To start, daily portions and treats should be reduced, and your dog should also get regular exercise (walks 2 to 3 times a day).
4. Don’t Let Your Dachshund Jump on Furniture
Whether a puppy or an adult, dachshunds are lively terrier dogs that love to jump on furniture, but this should be avoided as much as possible.
They are affectionate dogs that love cuddles, but they should avoid getting onto the sofa by themselves.
It may take some time to train them not to do it, but with a little patience and a few treats (kept to a minimum to keep their weight under control), it can be achieved.
Tip: If your pet is used to sleeping on the bed or sofa, carry them up and down (as shown in the video) instead of letting them jump on their own… or install a ramp for them.
5. Monitor Your Dachshund’s Mobility
It is essential to monitor your dachshund’s mobility and the way they move.
If they show unusual inactivity, discomfort, or reluctance to go for walks or run, take them to the vet immediately (by carrying them in your arms, of course).
This can be decisive because the longer you wait with this small dog, the more likely the back problem is to worsen.
Final Thoughts
We advise you to follow this article and bookmark it if you are planning to expand your family with a kaninchen, miniature, or standard dachshund, or if you already have one!
Giving your dachshund freedom is one thing, but preventing back problems in your small dog and carrying them properly is another.
Both must be combined so that your pet is happy AND healthy 🥰 and don’t hesitate to check out our collection of carrier bags to make traveling with your kaninchen or miniature dachshund easier!
The DoxieLife team
– 💚 Last updated on 05/22/26
Read: How to Measure My Dachshund
Read: Which Harness for a Dachshund
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