Understanding Pain in Dogs: Signs, Diagnosis & How Canine Massage Can Help
- Ang Auger
- May 6
- 2 min read
Updated: May 8
Pain in dogs isn’t always obvious, but it can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life. From arthritis to soft tissue injuries, understanding the signs is the first step. Once diagnosed by a veterinarian, canine massage can offer meaningful support and relief—especially for soft tissue discomfort.

Signs Your Dog Might Be in Pain
Dogs are experts at hiding pain, so signs can be subtle. Look for changes in:
Movement: reluctance to jump, stiffness, limping
Behavior: restlessness, increased sleeping, grumpiness
Appetite: eating less or disinterest in food
Posture: hunching, shifting weight, or abnormal sitting
Grooming: licking or chewing at certain areas
If you notice any of these, your first step should always be a visit to your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
Veterinary Diagnosis Comes First
Before starting any manual therapy, it’s essential to rule out serious medical issues. Your vet will assess whether the pain stems from joints, muscles, nerves, or internal sources. Once the underlying cause is known, you can explore supportive therapies like canine massage—with your vet’s approval.
How Canine Massage Supports Dogs in Pain
When pain is soft tissue-related, canine massage therapy can be a gentle, effective option to reduce discomfort. Benefits include:
Improved circulation to aid healing
Reduced muscle tension and soreness
Better mobility and range of motion
Relaxation and stress relief
Enhanced body awareness
Massage can be especially beneficial for dogs recovering from injury or dealing with chronic muscular tension.
Massage Works Alongside Pain Medications
If your dog is already taking pain management medications, massage can safely complement them. While medications reduce inflammation and nerve pain, massage helps:
Prevent muscle tightness and compensation patterns
Increase comfort without adding more drugs
Support recovery through low-impact touch
Improve emotional well-being
It’s a non-invasive, hands-on way to support your dog’s comfort during recovery or long-term care.
Important Note: When Massage is Not Appropriate
Avoid massage if your dog has:
An active infection or fever
A recent or suspected fracture
Open wounds or stitches
A condition your vet has flagged as a contraindication
Always consult your veterinarian before starting massage therapy.
Canine Massage in Edmonton: A Supportive Option for Your Dog
If you’re searching for canine massage in Edmonton, K9 Muscleworks is happy to collaborate with your vet and tailor sessions to your dog’s specific needs. Whether your dog is an athlete, senior, or recovering from injury, K9 Muscleworks can be a valuable addition to their wellness plan.
Book with K9 Muscleworks today: https://www.k9muscleworks.com/contact

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