There are few things more satisfying to your dog than receiving a good rub from his favorite person a.k.a. you—or your friends, or your neighbors, or anyone who happens to be passing by. Your dog experiences bliss at the slightest pet, from an under-the-collar scratch to a luxurious belly rub.
So can you imagine how relaxed and happy your furry friend would be with a canine massage?
Yes, massages aren’t just for people—your dog can enjoy massages, too. Especially after a long flight or big move, dog massages are a wonderful way to care for and show love to your pet. Dog massages may also help improve the quality of your pup’s life—and it’s much easier than you think. This article will cover the benefits of dog massage as well as how to give your dog a massage he’ll love.
If you do happen to be in the process of moving with animals, we’ve written all about how much it costs to fly a dog and how to move cats across the country.
Benefits of Massaging Your Dog
If your dog becomes delirious with happiness at the smallest little ruffle of his ears, you might be wondering why dog massage is so important for your pet’s health.
Here are just a few benefits your dog may reap if you become a pro at dog massage:
- Helps reduce anxiety – Dog massage can help reduce stress in dogs.1 If your dog suffers from anxiety or has a nervous disposition, a little massage can go a long way.
- Improves circulation – Your dog’s circulatory system helps move nutrients, oxygen, and antibodies throughout the systems of his body. This keeps your pup’s brain, organs, skin, and even coat healthy and thriving. Massage helps your dog’s circulatory system move around those vital elements to maintain his health. It can also help carry metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs to keep them flourishing.
- Helps reduce anxiety – Dog massage can help reduce stress in dogs.1 If your dog suffers from anxiety or has a nervous disposition, a little massage can go a long way.
- Improves circulation – Your dog’s circulatory system helps move nutrients, oxygen, and antibodies throughout the systems of his body. This keeps your pup’s brain, organs, skin, and even coat healthy and thriving. Massage helps your dog’s circulatory system move around those vital elements to maintain his health. It can also help carry metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs to keep them flourishing. Translation? Massage helps your pup’s body stay healthy from the outside in, and may even help reduce the risk of certain health conditions like high blood pressure and edema.2
- Promotes bonding – Dog massages can benefit your dog’s health as well as your relationship with your pup. Spending time helping your dog feel his best will deepen your bond with your pet, helping him feel safe, secure, and protected.3
- Keeps you in the loop of your dog’s health – Regular dog massages means lots of tail wags for your dog in the short term, but it may also help you identify potential health concerns in the long run. The more you rub your pet, the more you’ll get to know his body. That means you’ll notice even the smallest changes in your pet. You’ll easily spot anything from irksome ticks to tender areas that require a visit to the vet.
- Reduces your stress and anxiety – Yes, even you benefit from dog massages. Just ask Dr. Barrack, a certified canine massage therapist: “Studies have shown that petting a dog or cat can lower heart rate and blood pressure. Touching your pet will also cause your body to release oxytocin, a hormone that causes sensations of bonding and love.”4So really, it’s a win-win—your pup gets a massage that will keep him healthy and happy, and you get a wonderful dose of warm-fuzzies.
Dog Massage 101: Learning Massage Techniques
By now you’re probably scheduling your furry friend for a nice long massage after his evening walk, but you might still be wondering how to give a dog a massage properly. We’ll start with the basic techniques and take you through a step-by-step guide to a relaxing massage for your dog.
The basic massage styles for dog massage include:
