If you’ve ever been the recipient of a full body massage, you already know how wonderful it feels and how relaxed it can make you. It’s not so far fetched to consider that a massage would be beneficial to our pets as well. Massage can be great therapy for very active or older dogs, as it increases circulation and helps muscles relax, and it can help puppies learn socialization, or the act of being comfortable around people. Massage is also a great way to introduce your dog to touch therapy, which can be very beneficial for those suffering illnesses and senior citizens. You can learn to massage your goldendoodle by following these tips.
First, find a nice quiet space in which to give your massage with no nearby distractions. Make sure you are in a comfortable position, as sudden movements like readjusting yourself to get comfortable can startle your dog. Once you’re confident that you’ve created a quiet and comfortable space, you can get to work.
Start your massage by petting your dog like you normally do, but then change the frequency and pressure of your hand movements. Make a mental map of the areas you have worked on so you’ll be sure to spend a little time all over the dog’s body. Take a few minutes to concentrate on each section, such as his chest, back, or one leg, before moving on to the next part. You can try circular motions, light scratching, kneading or rubbing. Follow the grain of the coat and if you work in the opposite direction, work slowly and lightly. Speaking calmly and quietly to your dog can also provide a calming effect.
If your dog is resistant to massage, give him time to get used to the idea but never force him. If he is letting you know that this is not a good time for him to have a massage, try again later. Once you have earned his trust, he will allow himself to relax and enjoy the massage. Until then, try to massage for a few minutes at a time and work up to a longer session. After a massage, your goldendoodle may take a snooze or might even be ready for another play session. Either way, you can be sure that you’re building a lasting relationship just by taking the time to pamper your goldendoodle.
