There are many situations where you may need to lift your dog — getting into the car, onto the vet's examination table, or up onto furniture. Using the right technique protects your dog's joints and prevents injury. Here is how to lift your dog safely based on their size, how to reduce the impact of furniture jumping, and when a ramp is the better option.
How to Lift Your Dog by Size
The correct lifting technique depends on your dog's size. Regardless of size, always give your dog a verbal cue before lifting so you do not startle them, and be mindful of any pre-existing medical conditions, age, or joint issues.
Small to medium dogs. Slide your dominant arm under the chest between the front legs and tuck the rear end between your arm and body as you lift. This supports the dog's weight evenly and keeps them secure against you.
Medium to large dogs. Place one arm behind the back legs and the other arm around the chest in front of the back legs, then hold the dog against your chest as you lift. With larger dogs, remember to keep your back straight and lift through your legs to protect your own joints as well.
Very large dogs. For dogs that are too heavy to lift safely, use a ramp, step, or board. If your dog needs to be moved in an emergency, enlist a helper and use a flat surface like a board or large bed to support their weight.
Older dogs or dogs needing extra joint support. A ramp or step is the best option for senior dogs, heavy dogs, or any dog with joint stiffness or mobility issues. Ramps are available ready-made in various sizes from pet stores, or you can build a custom one to fit your home or vehicle.
Important: Never lift a dog by their legs or using their "armpits" the way you might lift a child. This can cause pain and joint injury.
How to Train Your Dog to Use a Ramp
Most dogs take to ramps quickly with patience and treat-based training. Start by placing treats on the ramp so your dog approaches and investigates it on their own. Gradually build up a trail of treats along the ramp's surface to encourage them to walk across it. A small amount of peanut butter on the ramp can motivate a hesitant dog to step up and stand on it for the first time. Once your dog is comfortable with the surface, they will typically use the ramp without hesitation. For very nervous dogs, move slowly and avoid any pressure — let them set the pace.
Making Furniture Safer for Dogs That Jump
Repeated jumping on and off furniture puts strain on a dog's joints over time. If your dog loves the couch or bed, training them to wait and be lifted — or providing a step or ramp — is a healthier long-term approach. For dogs that are determined jumpers, you can make the environment safer by adding a step or ramp next to the furniture, making sure the furniture is on a non-slip surface (a rug with sticky backing works well on slippery floors), and clearing the area around the landing zone so your dog has plenty of space for a smooth, unobstructed landing.
If your dog cannot be easily supervised around furniture, closing the door to the room is a simple way to prevent unsupervised jumping.
Supporting Your Dog's Joints Alongside Proper Lifting
Proper lifting technique and ramps reduce the physical impact on your dog's joints, but a joint supplement can provide additional support — especially for dogs that are active, aging, or showing early signs of stiffness. For dogs with significant stiffness, YuMOVE Advanced Vet Strength Chews provide the most concentrated formula. For daily preventive joint maintenance, YuMOVE Tasty Health Bites support ongoing joint health. Browse the full YuMOVE hip and joint collection to find the right option for your dog.
A joint supplement is not a substitute for proper lifting technique and safe furniture access — both work together to protect your dog's joints for the long term.
