Tips For Giving Your Dog a Massage

Massage is a wonderful way to spend time with a loved one. The touch that you share 
with them during that time can go very far to create a bond, build trust, and show 
affection, but what if your loved one is a pet? Dog love close contact, and respond 
powerfully to touch, but if this is something you’ve never thought of, then you’re not 
likely to know where to begin. This article has been written so that you can learn a few 
tips for giving your do a massage. 

Daily Care 

It doesn’t take much time to give you dog a health massage. When you begin, your dog 
will simply enjoy the extra love time. Use a flat hand to become aware of your dog’s 
entire body. Feel their frame through their hair, and pay very close attention to their 
muscle structures. Not only will this build a stronger trust bond, but it will also serve the 
purpose of showing you exactly what is normal for your dog’s body and general health. 
If any changes develop over time, you will be able to detect changes in your dog’s 
muscular health, and body temperature. This will also alert you to any changes that 
could be life threatening for your dog, and will empower you with the ability to 
communicate specific details about changes with the veterinarian. 

Warm Up Massage

When an athlete is preparing for a tournament, they are likely to perform a series of 
stretches and exercises that prepare them for the activity. Animals are also in need of 
this behavior to some extent. Stretching and rubbing your dog can prepare them for 
times of rigorous play. This can help them to avoid injury. Begin by giving them a full 
body rub down. After that, rub front and back legs, ending with gentle squeezing. Rub 
you dog’s chest, neck, buttock, and shoulder muscles with the heel of your hand. When 
you are finished end with a quick full body rub and pet. 

For Older Dogs

As your dog grows older, it is sometimes very difficult for them to do the things they 
used to do because of joint pain and swelling. A massage routine can help an older dog 
improve their health in many ways. Pet the hip, and shoulder areas to warm them up 
and prepare them for the massage. Very light kneading and compression can bring 
more fluids into the muscle to help alleviate pain and increase functionality. Never use 
hard sudden movements. End with petting the area, and make it a regular routine to 
help them improve their quality of life. 





