Tips for Giving Your Dog a Massage
Just like us, dogs can get sore muscles and achy joints. Massaging our pups will relax their muscles and free up joints so there’s less (or no) pain, better range of motion and increased fluidity of movement. A regular massage will make our pets happy, relaxed and loved.
When and Where to Massage Your Dog
Make massaging just another part of your regular routine. Work your massage into times that you and your dog typically relax together. Canine massage doesn’t require any special equipment, but make sure your dog is on a comfortable surface. For a positive massage experience, try these tips:
- Massaging your dog in a quiet area of the home with minimal distractions.
- Choose a time when your dog is sleepy, like before bedtime.
- Waiting at least 30 minutes after your pup’s last meal.
- Give your dog a potty break before you begin to ensure he will be relaxed.
How To Give Your Dog a Massage
- Begin by calming your dog with some gentle petting. Use long, slow strokes on their back, belly and other parts they like to be touched.
- Start at the back of his neck, applying gentle pressure in a circular motion with your fingertips.
- Work your fingers down and apply pressure in a circular motion between your dog’s shoulder blades.
- Move to the front legs. Start with your hands at the ankle then slowly move them up to the back of the knee. Some dogs don’t like their legs being touched so be aware of signs of discomfort.
- Stroke your dog’s back, gently press your fingers as you draw them from the head to the base of the tail on one side of the spin. Then, from the tail to the head on the other side of the spin.
- Move to the back legs. Apply gentle pressure at the ankle then slowly move to the back of the knee.
- Finish the massage with an ear rub. Place your thumb at the base of the inner side of your dog’s ear and your index finger on the outer side, then use gentle pressure to slide them out towards the tip of the ear.
Your pup will love this massage. If you have any tips on how you massage your dog, we would love to hear from you!