The Logistics of Moving a Large Dog (50lbs+)

I once tried to carry my 70lb Lab to the car by myself and almost dropped him. It was traumatic. Dead weight is real physics—it feels twice as heavy as a living, moving dog. If you have a big dog and are alone or dealing with stairs, here is how to move them with dignity and safety.

Don't try to lift them like a baby.

You will hurt your back, and you might drop them.

Use the "Blanket Stretcher" Method

This is what paramedics do.

**Roll and Tuck:** Lay a sturdy blanket (or a large beach towel) flat on the floor next to their back.

**The Log Roll:** Gently roll your dog onto their side, away from the blanket. Push the blanket edge as far under their back as possible.

**Roll Back:** Roll them back towards you, over the "hump" of the blanket. Now they are centered.

**The Lift:** Gather the corners.

- **If you have 2 people:** Each person grabs two corners (like a hammock). Lift with your legs, not your back.

- **If you are alone:** Do *not* lift. Drag the blanket. A blanket slides easily over wood or carpet. It is much safer to drag them gently to the door than to stumble carrying them.

The Car Loading Struggle

This is the hardest part if you are solo.

**The Ramp:** If you have a car ramp, use it.

**The "Step-Up":** If no ramp, bring the car as close as possible. Lift the *front half* of the dog (using the blanket) onto the floorboard or trunk first. Then, lift the *back half*. Doing it in two stages cuts the weight in half.

Important Reality Check

If your dog is 90lbs+ and you are alone/physically unable: **Do not force it.**

Call a mobile vet or a pet cremation service for a "Home Pickup." Yes, it costs $75-$150 extra. Pay it. Watching your pet fall is a memory you do not want.

Next Steps Checklist

Find your strongest blanket (not a sheet—sheets rip).

Clear the path to the door (move chairs, rugs).

Back your car into the driveway *before* you start moving them.

Use the blanket drag method to get to the door.

If too heavy, stop and call for help (neighbor or professional).

Use the "Blanket Stretcher" Method

This is what paramedics do.

**Roll and Tuck:** Lay a sturdy blanket (or a large beach towel) flat on the floor next to their back.

**The Log Roll:** Gently roll your dog onto their side, away from the blanket. Push the blanket edge as far under their back as possible.

**Roll Back:** Roll them back towards you, over the "hump" of the blanket. Now they are centered.

**The Lift:** Gather the corners.

- **If you have 2 people:** Each person grabs two corners (like a hammock). Lift with your legs, not your back.

- **If you are alone:** Do *not* lift. Drag the blanket. A blanket slides easily over wood or carpet. It is much safer to drag them gently to the door than to stumble carrying them.

The Car Loading Struggle

This is the hardest part if you are solo.

**The Ramp:** If you have a car ramp, use it.

The Logistics of Moving a Large Dog (50lbs+)

Don't try to lift them like a baby.

Use the "Blanket Stretcher" Method

The Car Loading Struggle

Important Reality Check

Next Steps Checklist

Related Articles

How to Transport Your Deceased Pet

Emergency Guide: How to Keep Your Pet's Body at Home Overnight

Home Euthanasia: A Gentle Goodbye

Ready to Find a Provider?

The Logistics of Moving a Large Dog (50lbs+)

Don't try to lift them like a baby.

Use the "Blanket Stretcher" Method

The Car Loading Struggle

Important Reality Check

Next Steps Checklist

Related Articles

How to Transport Your Deceased Pet

Emergency Guide: How to Keep Your Pet's Body at Home Overnight

Home Euthanasia: A Gentle Goodbye

Ready to Find a Provider?