- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Dog massage is a growing trend—and it’s not hard to see why. Unlike simply petting your dog to relax, a massage targets certain areas with gentle pressure to help relieve pain, reduce stress, improve blood flow, and release endorphins that make your dog happy.
The physiological benefits go beyond offering your good boy or girl scritches—and it’s important to understand the proper techniques to avoid injury.
“Massages can be especially helpful to dogs with soft tissue or muscle strain injuries, arthritis, and limited mobility,” says Glen Ellyn Animal Hospital veterinarian, Dr. Kathleen Mottel. “They can help relieve tension in the muscles and increase mobility of the joints.”
Whether you have an energetic puppy or a sweet elderly canine, a massage is a great way to provide your pet with a bit of extra TLC. Read on to learn more about health benefits, target areas, and safe techniques for massaging your dog.
The Benefits of a Dog Massage
Just as many humans relish a spa day, dogs can too. Many canines enjoy a tissue massage just as much as we do, and reap benefits both mental and physical.
Stress and anxiety relief
Your dog might not have human problems, but they can still experience stress. Whether they struggle with separation anxiety or are dealing with changes to their environment, a massage can relax the body and mind.
Sore muscle relief
If your dog is walking stiffly, becoming less active, or finding it difficult to jump onto the couch or bed, they may be experiencing soreness in their joints and muscles. This is most common among senior dogs, though some younger dogs may struggle with soreness too. Massaging areas where muscles are tense can help relieve tightness and improve movement.
Pain relief
If your dog is in pain, it’s time to book an appointment with your vet. “Some pets may not make any noise when in pain,” says Dr. Mottel, “while others might whimper or groan.” Observing your dog’s body language and vocalizations can help identify if something is awry. Whether they are experiencing digestive issues or sore joints, a massage can often bring pain relief and relaxation.
Blood flow
Though your dog might seem relaxed during a massage, their body is doing work! Applying the appropriate amount of pressure to certain spots can improve blood circulation and boost the immune system.
Bonding
The most fun benefit of a dog massage is quality time and bonding with your dog. This activity builds trust, communicates care, and releases oxytocin, which can help your dog feel calm and relaxed. A final benefit? It can make you feel relaxed and happy too.
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Signs Your Dog Likes a Massage
A good massage will have your dog saying “That’s the spot!” Observe your dog’s body language when working out tense spots or knots to ensure they aren’t experiencing pain or discomfort. The good news is that dogs typically aren’t shy about sharing their feelings.
Signs that your dog is happy during a massage include:
- A calm demeanor and relaxed body
- Stretching or leaning into the massage
- Sighing
- Tail wagging
- Eyes closed or falling asleep
Your surroundings can also play a role in your dog’s enjoyment of a massage. Try settling into a peaceful environment, away from loud noise and lots of stimulation. For example, you may choose to massage your pup while unwinding in front of the TV before bed.
Teaching your dog to “relax” or “settle” next to you can also be a great tool for helping your pet stay calm. Consider using clicker or rewards-based training to help your pup associate this cue with relaxation.
How To Massage Your Dog’s Head & Ears
Help your pooch rest and relax with a nice head massage. By gently moving your fingers in a circular motion behind the ears, along the temples, and at the top of the head, you can help relieve stress and release endorphins. Start by petting your dog and then, when they’re comfy, massage these spots with soft pressure.
How To Massage Your Dog’s Back
Dogs of every age can benefit from a back massage. Lightly massaging the back of an aging dog, in particular, can help alleviate pain, improve circulation, and loosen tense muscles.
To safely massage this delicate area, gently use a flat hand to apply light pressure from your dog’s neck to their tailbone. It’s important to avoid putting too much pressure on the spine. If your dog seems uncomfortable, stick with the head and ears instead!
How To Massage Your Dog’s Thighs & Legs
Labradors, Bulldogs, and other breeds prone to hip issues might benefit from a massage in this area. Carefully move your fingers and thumb along the dog’s legs, thighs, and hips to soothe sore joints, improve flexibility, and alleviate hip pain. Avoid applying pressure to the kneecaps, and keep an eye out for any signs that your dog might be uncomfortable.
How To Massage Your Dog’s Belly & Chest
Your dog will be in heaven with a nice, soothing stomach massage. Use your palm to rub clockwise circles into your dog’s belly to improve digestion, increase blood flow, and reduce stress.
You can also massage your dog’s chest by gently moving your palm in a long motion up and down their front, staying mindful to avoid pressure on the ribcage.
How To Massage Your Dog’s Paws
Giving your dog the canine equivalent of a hand or foot massage can promote relaxation and decrease anxiety. To massage those cute toe beans, softly press your fingers to the top of the paw as well as the base of the paw pad. You can lightly massage between each toe bean (formally known as a “digit”) too.
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When Not To Massage Your Dog
Whether your dog experiences pain during a massage or is simply not in the mood, it’s important to note when your pet is saying “no.” Most dogs will make it evident when they aren’t keen on the full spa experience.
Signs that your dog is unhappy during a massage include:
- Growling in warning (aggressively or with teeth)
- Pulling away
- Flinching
- Nipping or biting at your hand
Though massages benefit many dogs, there are instances when you should avoid this type of care and stick to plain old scritches. Avoid massaging your dog in the following situations:
- They are healing from a medical procedure or injury (unless the vet advises otherwise)
- They have a skin infection, bacterial infection, or open wound
- They have frail or severely weak bones and joints
- They are running a fever (you can check with a dog thermometer)
- They have a torn muscle or tendon
Finding a Professional
When massaging your dog to remedy a specific health issue, it can be worth seeking the support of a professional. You might choose to work with a canine therapist, certified by the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM) or the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork (IAAMB).
If you’re unsure where to start, ask your vet for recommendations as well as further tips on using dog massage therapy at home.
