How to Massage a Dog's Body

There are many health benefits to giving your dog a home massage. It will not only relax and make your dog happy but it will help the dog's nervous system, increase his blood circulation, help to alleviate pain, strengthen his body and relieve emotional pain such as loss of a another pet, abuse or fear.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Have your dog lie next to you in a quite comfortable setting a soft cushion or a rug works perfect.

2. Get your dog relaxed stroking the length of his body several times, this helps to warm the tissue. Massage him gently behind his ears. Starting at his head gently, with circular motion, rub each ear with your fingers working your way down to the tip of the ear.

3. Move slowly and softly over his face, cheeks, chin and nose gently using the circular motion. Gently massage between and around his eyes and back to his head.

4. Use your fingers in the same circular motion to move slowly over his neck, shoulders and chest. Start at the top of his foreleg and gently massage as you move down each of his leg. Continue massaging up and down the leg using this circular motion.

5. Slowly and gently stroke the length of his body several times. Start at the top of his rear leg and gently massage as you move down each of his leg. Continue massaging up and down the leg using this circular motion.

6. Finish the massage up with several soft, slow strokes covering his entire body.

Tips & Warnings

• Certified therapist can provide a deeper, more thorough massage, using a variety of techniques.
• Avoid Soars, lumps, rashes and tender spots.