Why you shouldn't carry your dog around

Are you one of those people who carries your dog around? Read here why it can be a bad idea and what to do instead

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The cute habit of carrying your dog around

It's hard to resist the temptation when your little furry friend looks up at you with wide eyes. Who can blame you for wanting to carry your dog around like a baby? But while it may seem harmless and cozy, there are several reasons why it's actually not a good idea. Let's take a look at why.

Dogs need exercise

One of the most obvious reasons why you shouldn't carry your dog around is that dogs need exercise. Whether you have a small Chihuahua or a larger breed, exercise is a vital part of their health and well-being.

Benefits of exercise for dogs

• Improves their cardiovascular health
• Keeps their weight under control
• Reduces the risk of behavioral problems

It can lead to behavioral problems

Another important factor is that constantly carrying your dog around can lead to behavior problems. Dogs that are carried around all the time can develop separation anxiety and become overly dependent on their owners. They can also become more territorial and aggressive towards other people and animals because they feel they need to protect their "carrier".

Typical behavioral issues

• Excessive barking
• Aggressiveness towards other dogs
• Separation anxiety

It affects your dog's independence

Dogs are naturally curious and independent creatures. When you carry them around all the time, you deprive them of the opportunity to explore the world on their own terms. This can stunt their mental development and make them less confident and more dependent on you.

In addition, it's important for dogs to learn to be alone for short periods of time. This helps build their confidence and independence, which in turn leads to a more balanced and happy dog.

Risk of injury

When you carry your dog around, there is always a risk that you could drop them. A fall from even a low height can cause serious injury to your dog, especially if they are small. Injuries such as broken bones, sprains or even internal injuries can occur, which can lead to expensive vet bills and a lot of pain for your furry friend.

Alternatives to carrying your dog

Of course, there are situations where it may be necessary to lift your dog, for example when going up stairs or into the car. But for most cases, there are better alternatives than carrying your dog around all the time.

Using carrier bags and crates

• Gives your dog a sense of security
• Is ergonomically better for you and your dog
• Reduces the risk of injury

A good carrier bag or crate can be an excellent solution, especially for smaller dogs, when traveling or going for long walks. It gives your dog a safe place to stay, while still allowing you to have control and support if needed.

Concluding thoughts: Think about your dog's future health and happiness

While it can be tempting to carry your dog around all the time, it's important to think about the long-term implications for their health and well-being. By giving your dog the opportunity to move freely and develop their confidence, you're contributing to a happier and healthier dog. So the next time your little friend looks up at you with wide eyes, remember that the best thing you can do is let them walk on their own paws.

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Marcin is a true dog enthusiast! He is always seen with his 9-year-old boxer by his side. Marcin believes that dogs thrive on love, fun and positive experiences. On their daily adventures, people often stop Marcin to ask how his boxer is so happy and well-behaved. He happily shares tips on dog behavior and fun activities to create a happy and harmonious life with your dog.