Stretches for Crate Rest Games

I’ve researched crate rest games and there are some really good ones out there! So I created a list of a few since Sobek is the perfect candidate while recovering from cruciate ligament repair (torn ACL).

Depending on your dog’s injury, always consult your vet before performing any stretches. Be safe first!

Stretches are Good

Usually crate rest is prescribed after orthopedic surgery, meaning dogs should keep walking to a minimum during the first critical weeks. Sobek really enjoyed neck, shoulder and chest stretches. I noticed increased mobility during short potty walks. His neck and shoulders work harder, as he favors his repaired knee–poor baby boy!

Practice one stretching session in the a.m. and p.m.

Lure Dog’s Nose to Shoulder (Beginner Level)

With this stretch, your dog will stretch his neck and shoulder muscles. Move at your dog’s pace. His nose doesn’t need to touch his shoulder. You’re looking for tiny stretches in the beginning. Never force your dog’s head toward his shoulder, as this will make things worse. With continued practice sessions, your dog will become more flexible over time.

If your dog knows “touch,” replace the lure with your hand, then click and treat when your dog touches your hand.

You’ll need six yummy treats about the size of a penny and a clicker/marker word.

• Hold lure in your right hand (or left, if you’re left-handed).
• Place lure on your dog’s nose.
• Slowly, lure your dog’s nose diagonally toward his left shoulder.
• Click and give him the lure (treat).
• Practice two more times.
• Now, lure your dog’s nose toward his right shoulder. You may notice one side has more flexibility, which is normal.
• Practice two more times.

VIDEO: Stretches for Crate Rest Games: Up and Down

Stretch Neck Up and Down

Picture a clock. You’ll lure your dog’s nose up into the 12 o’clock position. This will stretch your dog’s neck and chest. You’ll need several yummy treats about the size of a penny.

If your dog knows “touch,” replace the lure with your hand, then click and treat when your dog touches your hand.

Head Up

• Holding a lure in your right hand, lure your dog’s head up. His nose should be pointing up in the air.
• Refrain from lifting the lure up too high. You don’t want your dog to stand or sit up. You just want him to extend his neck and lift his head up.
• Click and give him the treat (lure).
• Practice two more times.

Head Down

• Your dog can be sitting or lying down, whichever is most comfortable.
• Place a lure on your dog’s nose and lure his nose toward the ground.
• Click and give him the treat (lure).
• Practice two more times.

Holding Stretches for One Second

After several practice sessions, hold the lure in position for one second, then click and treat.

Happy stretching!

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