Doggy Acupuncture
What is it, and Why is it practiced?
Acupuncture is an ancient medical practice (that’s now considered an alternative medicine) that is routed in traditional Chinese medicine, but has become increasingly popular in the modern western world. It involves the practice of inserting super thin needles through the skin at strategic points of the body.
While practices like this, and others within the scope of traditional Chinese medicine, are considered to be alternative practices in the west, they have evolved significantly over thousands of years to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases.
These practices have been around for much longer than any of our modern western medical practices; this doesn’t necessarily mean that either Eastern or Western practices are better (or worse) than the other, it just means they both have credibility and purpose.
Chinese medicine believes that the body’s vital energy flows along specific channels or meridians; if it’s balanced then we are in good physical, emotional and spiritual health.
If it isn’t balanced, it can lead to diseases. Acupuncturists believe that the practice of acupuncture can release stagnant or blocked energy, and improve its flow throughout the body.
This improvement of energy flow is believed to improve health and prevent disease. The needles used for acupuncture are extremely thin, this paired with correct placement by the acupuncture creates a pain-free experience.
What are the benefits?
Acupuncture can provide relief from a multitude of different medical conditions in dogs. It is mostly used to relieve nervous system and musculoskeletal conditions such as:
Arthritis & Hip Dysplasia
Tendon Injuries
Body Weakness/Lameness
Back Pain
Shortened Gait/Decreased Range of Motion
Nerve Injury/Paralysis/Weakness
Intervertebral Disc Disease
However, it is also been successfully used to help treat other conditions in dogs such as:
Seizures
Dental and Tooth Pain
TMJ Pain
Lick Granulomas
Allergies
Delayed Wound Healing
Cystitis
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic Vomiting & Diarrhea
Constipation
Nausea & Indigestion
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Fecal Incontinence
Asthma
Chronic Upper Respiratory & Sinus Infections
Nasal Congestion
Dry Eye & Corneal Ulcers
Irregular Reproductive Cycles
Ear Infections
Pain Management for Cancer & Amputation (with phantom limb pain) patients
Acupuncture is highly effective for many medical conditions because it enhances circulation, delivering more oxygen to tissues and helping the body eliminate waste more efficiently. It also helps relax muscles at the needle sites, easing pain caused by tension. Additionally, the thin needles can trigger the release of natural hormones that reduce pain and inflammation, often lowering the need for medication. This therapy is frequently used alongside conventional treatments; combining both approaches produces better results than either alone.
One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is its safety; it typically has no systemic side effects, making it a gentle and viable option for virtually any pet. It can be used on its own or in combination with other treatments, which is especially beneficial for dogs that can’t tolerate standard medications. In more serious conditions, like cancer, infections, or organ disease, traditional therapies such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, or radiation are usually the primary treatment. Still, acupuncture can play a supportive role by reducing pain and inflammation.
For dogs nearing the end of life—whether due to aging or illness—acupuncture offers a safe, compassionate option to ease discomfort. When western medicine no longer brings relief, acupuncture can help provide comfort, allowing your dog to rest more peacefully and enjoy meaningful time with you and your family in their final days.
What To Expect
The initial visit with a veterinary acupuncturist typically begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation. Prior to the appointment, your dog’s primary care veterinarian will share relevant medical records, including the history of the condition, lab work, X-rays, and details of any current treatments. This ensures the acupuncturist has a full understanding of your dog’s health. During the appointment, the acupuncturist will conduct their own physical exam, review potential treatment options, and explain what to expect during an acupuncture session.
While some dogs may feel uneasy in a new clinical environment, most become noticeably relaxed once the needles are in place. Sessions generally last between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. The acupuncturist will recommend a treatment plan, which may involve one to three sessions per week over several weeks. As your dog improves, sessions are gradually reduced in frequency.
Acupuncture has cumulative effects, meaning repeated treatments can lead to greater improvement over time. The goal is to achieve and maintain optimal results with as few sessions as necessary. Side effects are rare, but some dogs may experience mild soreness, stiffness, or fatigue following a session—these typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
Conclusion
Overall, if you are looking for a therapy to help with your dog’s medical ailments (especially for pain, musculoskeletal, and nervous system issues) then acupuncture may be an excellent idea for treatment or in conjunction with other treatments. As you’ve learned, it is a very safe and noninvasive therapy that can help your dog with a variety of systems that may be holding them back from living their best (and most comfortable) life. If you have been curious about acupuncture for your pet, we highly suggest that you ask your primary veterinarian for their opinion and referral to your local pet acupuncturist. It is a specialty practice, so not every veterinarian office may offer it, however it is becoming increasingly popular and accessible!
Written By: Jessica L Hays
Lead Dog Walker/Community Outreach/Social Media Associate
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/acupuncture
https://www.petmd.com/dog/acupuncture-dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/acupuncture-for-dogs/
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/acupuncture-acupressure-for-dogs
