Some highly active dogs need a helping hand to settle down before going to sleep at night. I have a highly active sport dog, and we often do training, tricks, and play in the evening to engage his mind and body and keep this herding dog out of trouble... most of the time!
However, activity before bedtime also means we have to use calming techniques to transition between energetic play and training, and bedtime. Making this part of a regular routine can help your dog learn that it's time to settle down.
Here are three great ways to massage and relax your active dog to help calm him down if you have an unusually active evening.
Before you get started
I have the most success with taking it very slow and gentle, or it can end up making my active dog think it's playtime again. Also make sure to choose a calm, quiet location and to put the toys away before you get started! Think about your voice and body language: it also can help to use a very calm tone of voice to soothe your companion before bedtime.
While you practice these calming techniques, closely watch your dog's body language and behavior, take cues from what he seems to like or feel uncomfortable with and adjust accordingly. No two dogs are completely alike, and you know your dog best.
1) Long strokes down the side of the face and/or body
Dogs relax while being calmly stroked. Focus on the side of the face with gentle, slow strokes, or small circular motions.
When you massage the length of the body, place your palm at the base of your dog's neck, and run it along the spine towards the base of the tail. Do not press too hard, just sweep gently down the back in a calming, repetitive, slow motion. You can end the session by pressing lightly at the base of the head and tail.
2) Massage the ears
The ears contain many nerve endings and can release endorphins into your dog's body when you massage them. An ear massage is a great, natural way to promote relaxation.
Slowly stroke the ears using a circular movement with your finger, moving from the base of the ear outwards. Use very soft pressure, and make sure to watch your dog carefully to see what he enjoys the most.
3) Rub the chest
This might be my dog Mort's favorite. Gently stroke your dog's chest in a circular motion. Take cues from your dog for how much pressure to apply, as too much or too fast may cause excitement. I sometimes combine this with stroking the cheeks (#1, above), or applying pressure in a vertical motion between the snout and forehead using my thumb.
What else?
If your dog is highly active in regular sport activities that use specific muscle groups, you may also want to take this time to focus on a deeper muscle massage.
It's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or canine massage therapist for the proper technique for working with sore muscles properly, in the way that is most appropriate for the sports you take part in. The professional can also teach you the signs of injury or overuse, or develop warm-up exercises that will help reduce the chances of encountering them.
Your turn!
An added benefit of any form of calming technique or massage for your dog is the additional bonding time, and handling practice (if your dog is sensitive to it), and you will become aware of any subtle changes in your dog's body or health. Give it a try, and let us know how it goes!