What’s Your Dog’s Favourite Spot to Be Scratched?

If you’ve ever given your pup a good scratch, you’ve probably noticed there are certain spots that send them straight to cloud nine — maybe with a happy sigh, a leg thumping in the air, or a blissed-out smile. But have you ever wondered why dogs love being scratched in these particular places?

Let’s explore some of the most beloved scratching spots and the reasons behind them. Plus, we’ll share a few massage tips to promote good energy flow and overall well-being! 🐶✨

🐕 Popular Scratch Zones & Why Dogs Love Them

1️⃣ Behind the Ears

Many dogs adore gentle scratching behind their ears. This area is packed with nerve endings that, when stimulated, release feel-good endorphins. It’s also a spot dogs can’t easily reach themselves — making your attention here even more appreciated.

Energetic note: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this area corresponds to points connected to calming and balancing the nervous system.

2️⃣ Under the Chin & Neck

Scratching under the chin and along the neck helps relax the muscles and stimulates lymphatic flow. The lymph nodes around the neck play a role in immune support, so this area may feel soothing when gently massaged.

Bonus tip: Use slow, light circular motions here for a calming effect.

3️⃣ Along the Back (Near the Base of the Tail)

Many pups absolutely melt when scratched at the base of their tail. This spot is rich with nerve endings and tends to hold a lot of tension, especially for dogs who wag their tails a lot.

Biological reason: Stimulation here can release muscle tension and encourage relaxation. Energetically, it’s considered a grounding point.

4️⃣ Belly

Ah, the classic belly rub — often greeted by an instant roll onto the back with paws in the air! The belly is a vulnerable area, so if your dog offers it to you, they’re showing trust. Light scratches or rubs here can stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Fun fact: Belly rubs can also aid digestion by promoting gut motility.

5️⃣ Chest & Shoulder Area

This is a great area to massage for both physical and emotional reasons. The large muscles here often become tight from activity, and dogs find chest scratches calming.

Energetic note: The chest area is associated with the heart centre, and gentle strokes here can help deepen the human-canine bond.

💆 Recommended Massage Spot for Energy Flow & Circulation

If you want to give your dog a little wellness boost during your scratch sessions, try focusing on the neck and shoulders area.

Why?

• Massaging here helps release tension from active play and daily movement.
• It promotes lymphatic drainage and circulation to the brain and body.
• In TCM and canine massage, this area is linked to pathways that encourage balanced energy flow.

How to do it:

• Use gentle circular motions with your fingertips.
• Move slowly down from behind the ears, along the neck, to the shoulders.
• Always watch your dog’s body language — if they lean in or sigh, you’re doing it
•  right!

Final Woof 🐾

Every dog is unique — and so are their favourite scratchy spots! Take time to explore what your dog enjoys most, and use those special moments not just to pamper them, but to support their well-being too.

Where is YOUR dog’s favourite spot to be scratched?