4 Benefits of Massaging your Dog

Three Minutes

May 04, 2023

A white and black dog lies on their side while its paws are massaged.

Massage can be a powerful holistic treatment for humans with ailments like muscle tension, chronic pain, stress, and much more. But have you ever considered giving your dog a massage?

Read on to discover if your canine companion might benefit from massages.

1. Canine Massage for Anxiety

For anxious dogs, the physical contact that comes with massage may be calming. If your dog is extremely fearful or anxious, it may take some time before he is comfortable with being massaged.

If this is the case, start little by little until your dog is comfortable being handled.

2. Massage for Arthritis

Massage can be used to alleviate joint and muscle pain in dogs who suffer from arthritis. Massaging your dog’s muscles helps to increase blood flow, which in turn relieves tension and pain.

It’s important to be gentle, as a firm massage may be uncomfortable for your dog.

If you think your arthritic pup may benefit from dog massage, speak to your vet before attempting it. You may even wish to hire a professional pet masseuse to ensure your furry friend receives expert care.

3. Bonding Through Canine Massage

Even if you’re skeptical of the health benefits of canine massage, there’s no denying that it’s a great way to bond with your dog.

Indulging your pup in a peaceful massage for even just a few minutes each day is a wonderful way to spend quality time together. It will also help your dog grow accustomed to being touched.

Additionally, a regular massage is a good way for you to keep tabs on your dog’s physical form. This way, changes to your dog’s physique, such as lumps, bumps, or rashes, will never slip by you.

4. Massage Can Improve Blood Flow

Not only is massage a powerful way to help reduce your dog’s stress and anxiety, but it can also strengthen his immune system.

Massaging your dog can help to increase the circulation of your dog’s blood and other internal fluids.

Is Massage a Good Fit For Your Pup?

If you think your dog could benefit from massage therapy be sure to speak to your veterinarian.

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Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.

1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.