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Begin the massage at the chin area. (photo Marian/Sxc.hu)
If you have a stressed out dog, one way to relax him is with a massage. A soothing massage can calm his muscles and nervous system. Here's how to do it:
1. Go to a quiet place. It can be outside or in your home. Just make sure it's a peaceful place without a lot of noise.
2. Get your dog into a comfy position. Lay him on his side or sit him on all fours. Make sure the position is one that he is inclined to do naturally.
3. Start the massage by petting his chin. Gently rub underneath it. Make your movements slower than usual.
4. Move your massage up to your dog's face. Pet around his face and ears, but with more pressure than usual. If your dog flinches, you are touching him too hard.
5. Graduate your massage to the rest of his body. With gentle, circular motions, massage the back of your dog's head and then glide your hand down to his tail. Don't forget your dog's legs and feet.
6. End the massage with a treat. It will be the icing on the cake. So give him a small bite of his favorite snack.
7. Take your dog outside for a potty break. A massage can move your dog's bodily fluid. Therefore, he may need to relieve himself afterward.
For more information and instruction on how to massage your dog, check out the "Good Dog Massage DVD". It can help you more and also give you visual instruction.
Comments
Ahh, datzo gud!
Great article! This is an under used reward and a great tool for things like fear of storms.
Practice this massage for 20 minutes during the next few storms and your dog will start to associate the weather with a massage.
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