This stretch should only be performed after the leg has been warmed up (through heat or exercise). While your dog is lying (easier) or standing comfortably and on an non-slip surface. Hold the leg you’d like to stretch so that it is not weight bearing – you want the muscles to be relaxed.
Cup your hands around the hock (ankle) and the stifle (knee) and gently lift the leg away from the body. It has to be moved away from the centre line (not forward, or back) and the whole leg must be moved together.
The aim of this exercise is to stretch the inner thigh muscles that are responsible for pulling the limb back toward the centre of the body. Do not rush the stretch, and perform it gently, stretching too fast or too strong can risk muscle, ligament and tendon tears that are painful for your dog. If your dog resists, do not force it. We are aiming for a minimum of 10 seconds, and ideally for at least 3 repetitions.
Professional physiotherapy and hydrotherapy centre for dogs in South East Kent