Gentle Hands Lift a Black Lab Puppy for a Close Look

Two weathered hands cradle a black Labrador Retriever puppy, lifting him up to face the camera. His coat is as glossy as polished stone, his ears hang soft and his big dark eyes look straight ahead with trust. A cozy living room with a sofa, a throw blanket and a potted plant glows softly behind him, and the sleeves of a gray sweater show at the bottom of the frame.

Holding a puppy is a skill worth learning. Always support the chest with one hand and the hindquarters with the other, so his body is fully supported and nothing dangles. Keep him close to your body so he feels secure, and sit on the floor when children want a turn. Gentle handling from an early age helps a puppy become comfortable with being touched, which makes grooming and vet visits easier. Pair handling with treats and soft words. Labs are very people-oriented, and many adore close contact. At the same time, puppies need rest, so don't pass him around for too long. If a puppy squirms or whines, put him down gently. A calm, kind touch lays the foundation for years of trust.

This pup seems quite content in the warm grasp. He knows he is held by someone who knows what they're doing. A moment later he will be set down on the rug to wobble off and explore the next interesting thing.