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Six Reasons to Give Your Dog a Massage
Whether you’ve got four legs or two, sometimes we all need to take time to relax.
When it comes to humans, we know there’s no better way to unwind than with a massage. It’s even known to lower blood pressure, and help with pain relief, anxiety and depression.
If you’re anything like us here at Tug-E-Nuff Dog Gear, you’re often dreaming about a spa day… But do you ever ask yourself if your dog should be getting a massage too?
The short answer is yes, they should. And here’s why...
1. It boosts bond
Dogs sometimes suffer from many of the same things we do: stress, hypertension, pain. A daily five-minute massage can help your dog relax and be at ease with you. We all know that quality one-to-one time is the best way to strengthen your all-important bond (for more on this, download our free e-book). Although it’s your four-legged friend getting all the attention, we find giving massage is therapeutic for us too!
2. It helps nervous dogs blossom
For nervous or anxious dogs that run and hide at the first crack of thunder or the sound of the letterbox, a massage can really help ease tension and calm nerves.
3. It helps active dogs recover
It’s always better to have a stretch before and after you do some exercise. It’s the same for dogs too, especially active dogs. Your dog might not heed commands of ‘touch your toes’, or ‘give me 10 star jumps’, but a quick warm-up massage might help prevent an injury. Also, a quick massage after a particularly intense training or play session could help the muscles recover.
4. It may help with getting older
Older dogs are prone to joint stiffness and soreness. Regular massage may help avoid early onset of conditions like arthritis or rheumatism. Just remember to get advice from your vet first if your dog suffers with any health conditions.
5. It’s easy!
Massaging your dog is so easy that, in some ways, you’re doing it already. Every time you idly stroke your dog or rub her ear; every time you tickle her belly or scratch underneath her chin, you’re effectively giving her a massage. But with a bit of technique and consideration, or what dog massage therapists call ‘intent’, your massage becomes more thorough - and more beneficial.
6. It helps you spot potential problems
Daily massage means daily maintenance. Dogs can’t tell us when they’re poorly or under the weather. But regular contact with your dog can help you gain a clearer picture of their overall health. It’ll help you get a feel for her body temperature and can give you a head start if any part becomes painful or doesn’t feel quite right. Make it part of your routine, just like you would with playing games with their favourite toy.
Important note: we recommend getting professional advice on massage techniques from a trained dog massage therapist or your vet before you get started.
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Do you massage your dog? Have you found it beneficial? Tell us in the comments!
