While there are hundreds of different ways to perform massage, there are three main techniques that can be used to help your dog improve his or her health. In addition to the techniques, some basic massage terminology may be helpful.

Effleurage: Long, flowing strokes that are usually done at the start and end of a massage sessions. This helps to warm up the tissues.

Petrissage: Kneading and twisting the skin and tissue to help remove adhesions, and massage the underlying tissues beneath the skin.

Compression: Kneading and twisting the skin and tissue to help remove adhesions, and massage the underlying tissues beneath the skin.

While there are many other techniques used during the massage, the basics are all that is needed for an at-home session. For a more detailed look at canine massage techniques, check out the sources at the bottom of this article.

Technique 1: Gentle, slow, calming strokes are important in the massage of a stressed or anxious dog. Starting at the neck and working downward, long, soft strokes can be used. Placing a hand on the back of the neck while stroking may also help to calm your dog. Do not hug or squeeze, just stay calm, pet and rub gently, and focus on finding where your dog is tense. Once he is calmer, you can feel the muscles relax under your touch.

Technique 2 (Arthritis/ Pain Recovery): Start with a slow and gentle massage as noted in the above Stress Relief technique, and then begin to use pumping and compression motions. These motions will help to soften up the tense tissues and muscles, and help them to relax and uncoil. Do not use hard force, and go gently on any areas that may be very sore or painful. Finish the massage with gentle stroking and petting motions to help relax your dog.

Technique 3 (Injury Rehabilitation): Rehabilitation techniques will vary depending on the injury, and many vets and therapy clinics will provide you with a handout of the techniques specific to your dog’s injury and recovery. Be sure not to start a canine massage session for injury rehabilitation unless instructed by your veterinarian or canine physical therapist. Most techniques will involve gentle motion exercises. You can start by first using a calming stroking technique over your dog’s entire body to help relax him, and then gently begin to move the limb in a normal range of motion. If the limb is too stiff or painful, return to a more soothing and gentle massage to help the muscles relax and stimulate circulation.

Times to Avoid Canine Massage: In some cases, massage may not be beneficial to your dog or may even be harmful. These can include systemic problems such as fever, organ dysfunction or infectious disease, as well as problems including fractured/sprained limbs or masses of unknown type and origin. Massage of surgical sites should also be avoided unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian as part of a rehabilitation program.

Sources:

• “Canine Massage, Pawsitively Peaceful Canine Massage Techniques Used.” Pawsitively Peaceful Canine Massage. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://www.pawsitivelypeacefulcaninemassage.com/techniquesused.html
• Chiquoine, Jody. “A Dog Lover’s Guide to Canine Massage- Benefits of Canine Massage.” Canine Massage Book. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://www.caninemassagebook.com/benefits.html
• Davieds, Kathy, DVM. “Relieving Arthritis.” The Bark. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://thebark.com/content/relieving-arthritis?page=2
• “FAQs: Dog Hip and Joint Supplements.” Dog Joint Care Products: General FAQs for Dog Joint Care.Drs Foster & Smith. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=1049
• “International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork/ Association of Canine Water Therapy.” IAAMB/ ACWT. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://www.iaamb.org/
• Michelin, Lola. “How to Massage Your Dog.” Modern Dog Magazine. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/how-massage-your-dog/2028
• Rivera, Michelle. “Veterinary Massage.” IVC Journal, Winter 2012. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://ivcjournal.com/veterinary-massage/
• “Canine Massage.” Wikipedia Foundation. 4 Dec. 2015. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canine_massage
• Van Dyke, Janet, DVM. “Canine Rehabilitation: An Inside Look at a Fast-growing Market Segment.” DVM 360, 1 July 2009. Web. 01 Apr. 2016. http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/canine-rehabilitation-inside-look-fast-growing-market-segment