Why Some Dogs Love Being Picked Up and Others Don’t
Tanisha Kumari | Nov 17, 2025, 14:16 IST
some dogs love being picked up
( Image credit : Freepik )
Here it explores why dogs have varying reactions to being picked up. It highlights emotional, experiential, physical and personality-based factors that influence a dog’s comfort level. Owners are encouraged to observe their dog’s behavior, respect boundaries and use gentle handling to foster trust.
Highlights
- Dogs with strong bonds or affectionate personalities may enjoy being held.
- Positive puppyhood handling encourages comfort; trauma or rough treatment causes fear.
- Small breeds are often carried and socialized to enjoy it; large dogs may find it awkward.
- Owners should approach slowly, support the dog’s body, and never force physical contact.
Some dogs love when their owners pick them up. They feel safe and happy in the arms of their humans while other dogs do not want to be picked up at all. They may become scared, stressed or even angry. Every dog is different and there are many reasons for these feelings.
Many people wonder why their dog likes being held while their friend’s dog runs away which seems strange but dogs are all unique just like people. The reasons for these differences are interesting.
Dogs Are Like People with Feelings
![Dogs]()
Dogs have feelings just like humans like some dogs feel more comfortable being close to people. These dogs might like to cuddle and be picked up. They think it is fun and makes them feel loved.
Some dogs are not used to being carried, they did not learn this when they were puppies. New things seem scary for these dogs.
A dog who was picked up gently as a puppy may start to like it as these dogs learn that being is safe. But a dog who has a bad experience in the past of being held roughly then they become afraid.
Some rescue dogs do not enjoy being carried because of bad past experiences. It takes time and love for them to feel safe.
Dog Size and Shape Matters
![Small]()
Small dogs like Shih Tzus are easy to carry in arms. These small dogs are bred to be companions and learn from a very young age that people will hold them.
Big dogs are not carried as much as the small dogs as they are heavy and carrying them feels strange for both the dog and the person. They do not get picked up as puppies so it seems odd to them as adults.
Each Dog Has Their Own
All dogs have their own special personality. Some enjoy being the center of attention and like being picked up because it makes them feel close to their human.
Other dogs are more independent so they do not always like being touched or held. These dogs get frightened When picked up without any warning.
How To Make Your Feel Safe
Make sure the dog enjoys being picked up and for that the owners should go slow and use calm words. Always support the dog's body so they are not uncomfortable.
Let the dog come to you first and do not force them. Over time, some dogs may learn that being picked up is safe but others may not like it and that is also fine.
Some dogs enjoy being picked up and some do not. the best thing one can do is to watch their dog's behaviour closely and respect their wishes. Each dog is special and have its own likes and feelings. A happy dog feels safe and trusts their owners.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many people wonder why their dog likes being held while their friend’s dog runs away which seems strange but dogs are all unique just like people. The reasons for these differences are interesting.
Dogs Are Like People with Feelings
Dogs have feelings
( Image credit : Freepik )
Dogs have feelings just like humans like some dogs feel more comfortable being close to people. These dogs might like to cuddle and be picked up. They think it is fun and makes them feel loved.
Some dogs are not used to being carried, they did not learn this when they were puppies. New things seem scary for these dogs.
Past Experiences Impact Dog Behaviour
Some rescue dogs do not enjoy being carried because of bad past experiences. It takes time and love for them to feel safe.
Dog Size and Shape Matters
Small dogs
( Image credit : Pexels )
Small dogs like Shih Tzus are easy to carry in arms. These small dogs are bred to be companions and learn from a very young age that people will hold them.
Big dogs are not carried as much as the small dogs as they are heavy and carrying them feels strange for both the dog and the person. They do not get picked up as puppies so it seems odd to them as adults.
Each Dog Has Their Own Personality
Other dogs are more independent so they do not always like being touched or held. These dogs get frightened When picked up without any warning.
How To Make Your Feel Safe
Let the dog come to you first and do not force them. Over time, some dogs may learn that being picked up is safe but others may not like it and that is also fine.
Some dogs enjoy being picked up and some do not. the best thing one can do is to watch their dog's behaviour closely and respect their wishes. Each dog is special and have its own likes and feelings. A happy dog feels safe and trusts their owners.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which breed of the dog is most clingy?
Hungarian Vizsla is the ultimate velcro dog that is very clingy. - Are male or female dogs more cuddly?
Male dogs are cuddlier and more affectionate than female dogs. - Why does my dog always want to be picked up?
One reason for the dogs to always want to be picked up is because they are either bored or frustrated.