Many public places and business owners are fine with and even encourage pet parents to bring their dogs with them while shopping or exploring their establishment.
Owners with little dogs, like Chihuahuas, have the convenience of being able to take their pet almost anywhere without even having to put them on the ground.
This article has all the tips and suggestions for how you can carry your pint-sized companion everywhere you go!
By Allison Salonko.
Allison is a Veterinary Technician in the state of Indiana. She graduated from International Business College and Vet Tech Institute of Indianapolis with a degree in Animal Science and Technology in 2011.
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Carry Them In Your Arms
How to carry your chihuahua? Let’s start with an option that they prefer the most!
It’s no secret that Chihuahuas enjoy being around their owners. Carrying them in one or both arms is completely fine!
How To Carry A Chihuahua Dog?
The best way to hold a Chihuahua is with one hand on their chest between their front legs to support their upper body and be held close to you.
It is unlikely that you will need two hands to support both the front and the rear end with such a little dog.
How Not To Pick Up A Chihuahua
Do not attempt to pick your dog up from under the front arms like a child.
This tends to not be very comfortable for them and will sometimes end with them crying out.
Longer dogs and breeds that are prone to injuries to their neck and back will benefit greatly from the proper technique of picking up from the side with your hand between their legs and on their chest.
Top Chihuahua Carrier Picks
Which Chihuahua carrier to get? Here are four very, very good options to consider.
- Alfie Pet Front Sling Carrier – arguably one of the best looking dog sling carriers around.
- Outward Hound PupPak Sling – more subdued looking small dog carrier
- PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier – well ventilated backpack with back support and two-sided entry.
- Jespet Dog & Cat Carrier – 17″ – a solid budget pet backpack.
Which one of these do you like?
Use A Dog Sling To Carry Your Chihuahua
There are several different types of dog slings on the market.
These cute and cozy over the shoulder carrying devices look quite similar to the papoose slings like a mother would carry her baby in.
Your pup stays nice and snuggled inside their soft and warm material while also staying safe.
If you’re interested in a dog sling for your Chihuahua, then check out our shortlist of dog carriers!
There are also several different ways to use sheets or blankets to create a DIY sling or dog carrier.
Just be sure that your precious pup doesn’t get too hot while inside the sling!
Carry Them In A Dog Backpack
Another genius product are backpacks meant to carry your dog and most of them have plenty of room for a few of your belongings as well.
You have the freedom of being hands free while your dog is safe and sound on your back.
They even have a great view from on top of your shoulders, unlike in the sling where they have more limited visibility depending on how they’re positioned.
Use A Carrier
If you or your dog don’t like the sling or the backpack then you can always try a carrier.
There are several that have wheels or shoulder straps to turn it into a backpack (not to be confused with the backpack style carriers).
Purse style carriers meant for small dogs are gaining popularity.
There are many different models that have a vintage or designer style that many owners love while also being waterproof.
Chihuahuas are certainly small enough to fit in these cute purse carriers.
Try Front Carriers Or Travel Bags
Front carriers look a lot like the ones that are meant for children, much like the carrier slings.
However, this is designed specifically for dogs of course.
Chihuahuas that are pretty calm will probably be into these types of carriers, but if they are anxious it may be a little scary or uncomfortable.
The front carrying travel bags are similar to the backpacks.
Your dog will have plenty of room and visibility.
Leash Walking Helps To Build Confidence
Carrying your little buddy is totally fine! And honestly, most Chihuahuas probably prefer it.
However, it is important for our dogs to experience walking on a leash.
Even when they are 5 lbs and easy to carry, being on the ground helps to minimize incidences of fear-related aggression and lack of socialization.
Our dogs benefit greatly from walking on the ground because they develop a stronger immunity to things, plus they are getting more exercise.
In general, allowing your dog to spend more time ON-LEASH than in your arms could be better for them in the long run.
That’s not to say that carrying your pint-sized companion with you isn’t good for them!
Owners and pets both can benefit from the comfort that they gain from having emotional support.
Carrying Your Chihuahua Everywhere And Keeping Them Safe
Safety is clearly one of the most important parts of traveling with your pets, whether that’s across multiple state lines or if it’s just to the park.
You will always want to ensure that you are providing your dog with a comfortable and safe option for regular travel with their favorite human.
There are a lot of different carriers, backpacks, slings and purses that are built specifically for carrying Chihuahuas and other small dogs!
You don’t have to feel guilty about leaving your buddy behind again!
Photo by Marina.