Is it normal for a puppy to tremble when carrying them?

[dangermouseisace]

I have a gorgeous 9 week old mainly poodle puppy. He seems pretty normal in most respects and not generally scared of stuff when he’s in the house/garden or when he’s on the ground. I’m trying to socialise him a bit but because he’s not had all his vaccines yet I’m having to carry him. I’ve tried to make him feel as safe as possible, holding him securely but he trembles/whines and stiffens up. He’s fine, bizarrely, when I carry him at home eg up/downstairs/from sleeping spot to garden. I’m concerned that maybe I’m doing something wrong or pushing him too far too soon. Do all puppies tremble or is it just mine?

[Felicia4]

I have a 9 week old poodle shitzu cross who trembles. Vet said it's a bit of anxiety. It should pass as he becomes more confident.

[dangermouseisace]

Thanks felicia4

[DogInATent]

It's normal for puppies. It's not unusual for adults of toy breeds to tremble sometimes when carried. I guess when you're a few inches long being a few feet up in the air seems a long way down.

[BeerandBiscuits]

My lab used to do this when a very young pup. Definitely not scared though, he was desperate to get down and start exploring and sniffing.

[MaitlandGirl]

I use a baby ring sling for carrying toy breed puppies (or you can tie a sarong to use instead. Pop in a hand towel incase of accidents (and to give them something to snuggle in and away you go. As long as you keep a hand on the puppy at all times it’s a great way to socialise a puppy. Not sure what we’ll do with the next one as he’s going to be a big breed!

[billybagpuss]

Billypup used to do that, it was always when I carried her anywhere new and different.

She got better as she got more confident. The worst was when the trembling was accompanied with and I'm scared wee all down my t-shirt.

[dangermouseisace]

It’s funny you mention the height as our puppy doesn’t seem being carried by the (older) children. I’m wishing I hadn’t given away my baby slings now! Could have been fun at the school gate: what have you had? A dog!