Picking up your dachshund incorrectly is one of the worst things you can do for your doxie's back. Since their backs are so fragile, you can easily hurt their back by picking them up the wrong way. Below are instructions on how to pick up your dachshund the correct way, so you aren't putting too much stress on their back. It is important that you support their entire back while holding them, so as not to bend it.

Step-By-Step Instructions

STEP 1 - Place one hand under the dachshund's chest behind his/her front legs. (Note: If you want the dog's head to your right side, use your right hand for this step. If you want the dog's head to your left side, use your left hand.)

STEP 2 (Please note that the front hand should remain for this step, and has only been removed for demonstration purposes.) - Place your other hand on the dog's belly area, about an inch to two inches in front of their back legs.

STEP 3 - Gently raise the dog up to your chest, moving both your hands at the same speed so the back doesn't bend.

STEP 4 - While holding the dog, support the rear of the dog with one hand as shown and wrap your other arm around the dog behind their front legs.

 STEP 5 - To put the dog down, repeat the steps in reverse order, making sure to support the dog fully all the way down.