7 Steps for the Perfect Doggy Massage
This weekend, I took my pup, Zuri, on his first hike! He bounded up the trail, leaping boulders and splashing through mud, all with a smile plastered on his face. The day after the hike was full of naps, downward dogs, and slow ambles. Unfortunately, the next day was the day of DOMS — and that’s exactly why I’m sharing my how to massage your dog routine with you below.
That’s right — dogs can get DOMS (delayed-onset muscle soreness) too. Jumping from 3-mile runs to a 7-mile hike with elevation change and a boulder obstacle course was a recipe for severe doggy DOMS. Thankfully, just like with people, learning how to massage your dog the right way can offer real relief.
Why You Should Learn How to Massage Your Dog
- Stress and anxiety reduction. Just like us humans, dogs can easily become stressed or anxious. A loud noise, car ride, crate, or thunderstorm can all set your dog into a frenzy. One way to ease your dog’s tension while helping him relax is a quick massage.
- Helps with circulation and recovery. Gentle massage supports healthy blood flow, helping sore, hard-working muscles recover after long walks and play sessions.
- Strengthens your bond. Your dog might initially resist the massage. But once he realizes how great it feels — and that you’re the cause — he’ll love you all the more. Plus, one-on-one time with your pooch deepens your bond.
How to Massage Your Dog: A Gentle 7-Step Guide
You don’t want to massage your dog the same way you would yourself. A deep tissue massage will most likely have your dog yowling at you. Gentle, slow techniques are the best approach to making sure your pup is comfortable. Here is exactly how to massage your dog, step by step.
- Make sure your dog is already in a calm and relaxed state. Trying to force your dog into a submissive position while she is anxious or fearful will only increase the anxiety. Instead, catch your dog in a post-walk nap or relaxing before bed and then start the massage.
Approach your dog calmly. Start the massage by petting your dog gently and slowly, all over. Light touch is key here.- Begin the massage at your dog’s neck. Slowly add pressure while moving your fingers in a circular motion at the neck. Keep it gentle and calm.
- Work down your dog’s shoulders (an area your dog can’t reach). Again, keep small, calm circular movements.
- Move to the chest and front legs. If your dog doesn’t like her legs massaged, move on to a different part of the body. If she does, see if she wants a paw massage too. (FYI: some dogs have an automatic “kick” reflex when anything touches between their pads. Be careful.)
- Massage your dog’s back on either side of the spine. Keep working your hands up and down the spine using those circular motions.
- Finish with the lower back and back legs. Then grab some cuddle time if you can.
How to Massage Your Dog Safely Over Time
By the time you work down to his back legs and even his tail (if he likes it), you’ll have one happy and relaxed pup. As you practice how to massage your dog regularly, you’ll learn your dog’s body. Pay attention to any changes in her reaction. If she jerks when you massage a specific area, she might have strained something and need a day or two off (with some extra massages) to get those muscles happy and healthy again.
Have you ever given your dog a massage? What tips and tricks work for you?
