When to Massage Dog

Massaging your dog is a great way to show them that you love them. It also has many benefits for their health. When should you massage your dog?

You should massage your dog after they have been exercising. This will help to release the lactic acid and other toxins from their muscles. You should also massage your dog if they are in pain or have a sore muscle or joint. This will help to reduce any inflammation and may even help with pain relief.

How often does a dog need a massage?

One goal of the initial massage session is to determine an appropriate care plan for your dog. A dog with a serious health condition, chronic pain or mobility issues may benefit from massage once or twice a week. A healthy, athletic dog might need a massage once or twice a month.^[1]

Is it good to give your dog a massage?

Improves body functions. A massage can increase your dog’s circulation, decrease blood pressure, improve lymphatic fluid movement, strengthen his immune system, aid digestion, stimulate the kidneys and liver, and encourage deeper breathing.^[2]

How long should you massage your dog?

Start with just a few minutes of massage at a time and work your way up to longer sessions of 10 minutes or more. To avoid accidentally injuring your dog never apply too much pressure or attempt to get at the deep tissue yourself. Deep tissue massage should be left to professionals with a deep knowledge of dog anatomy.^[3]

Where do dogs like to be massaged the most?

Starting at the back of the head, stroke up and down either side of your dog’s spine using very gentle pressure. Be sure to stay off the bone. This type of back rub is calming and relaxing for dogs, says Brandenburg. It can be a good dog massage for anxiety, particularly for dogs who are fearful of human touch.^[4]

How do you calm down a stressed dog?

As with humans, exercise can be a great stress reducer. Physical activities like walking or playing fetch help both you and your dog release tension. It is also good to provide your dog with a safe place in the home where he can escape anxious situations. Everybody enjoys a calm place to retreat.^[5]

Do dogs like deep tissue massages?

Dog’s Perspective Well, if you do it right, he will enjoy it just as much as you do. The best way to get him used to a deep tissue massage is to start out with more gentle massages until he is used to them and then increase the “intensity” over time.^[6]

How do you massage a dog to relax it?

Massage your dog’s back using circular motions, going up and down on both sides of the spine. Keep gently massaging your pup until you get to his back legs and tail area. Once you finish, he should be totally calm and stress-free. A massage is a great way to get in tune with your dog so you know what’s normal for her.^[7]

Do dogs like to be hugged and kissed?

When you kiss your dog, you might try to hug them at the same time. But, a lot of dogs don’t like being hugged. Especially not a big, tight bear hug. Many dogs, when hugged, will show signs of distress such as turning their head away, showing whale eye, lowering their ears, and licking their lips.^[8]

Do dogs have pressure points to calm them down?

The Yin Tang Point It is a single point in the center of your pet’s forehead located directly between and slightly above the eyes. Massage this area using one or two fingers and watch your pet melt into relaxation. This point is especially important for the flow of calming energy through your pet’s body.^[9]

When should you not give your dog a massage?

If your animal companion has a temperature over 104 degrees consult with your Veterinarian. If your animal companion is in shock don’t massage them. Consult with your Veterinarian immediately. Sprains.^[10]

Do dogs like their paws massaged?

Do you love having your hands massaged? So does your pup. A paw massage can relax your dog and promote better circulation. Try rubbing between the pads on the bottom of the paw, and then rubbing between each toe.^[11]

Do dogs like belly rubs?

Dogs love belly rubs simply because they feel good. It also sets off a specific reaction in their brain that responds to the stimulation of hair follicles. Experts believe that dogs love petting, and belly rubs in particular, because the stroking of hair is linked to social grooming.^[12]