Is Yoga with Dogs the Next Big Wellness Trend?
In a world constantly seeking innovative ways to achieve wellness, a unique trend is gaining popularity: yoga with dogs. This growing practice combines the calming benefits of yoga with the playful, stress-reducing presence of our canine companions. But is it just another fleeting fad, or does it genuinely contribute to holistic well-being? At Pups&Yoga, this tail-wagging twist on traditional yoga is more than a trend. It's a movement toward a more profound connection, greater happiness, and overall well-being.
Let’s dive into the world of yoga, where people practice it in the presence of dogs, and explore and understand why it might just become your new favourite form of self-care.
What is Yoga with Dogs?
It is also known as "Doga", a wellness practice that involves performing yoga poses while interacting with your dog. This type of yoga differs from traditional yoga, which prioritizes stillness and structure. Yoga with dogs introduces a dynamic, light-hearted environment where the dog might lie beside you in savasana, nuzzle into your downward dog, or even get gently incorporated into certain poses.
At Pups&Yoga, sessions are structured to allow both the person and the pup to benefit. While you stretch, breathe, and centre your mind, the dog engages through touch, bonding, and light movements, creating a fun and enriching experience for both species.
Why Yoga with Dogs is Gaining Popularity?
Different types of health-related practices come and go, but the popularity of yoga with dogs is on the rise, and for good reason. Have a look:
You can build an emotional Connection and Bonding:
Dogs can form a lovable bond easily; therefore, spending intentional, calm time with them helps strengthen your bond. The physical closeness, eye contact, and synchronized breathing enhance the emotional connection. At Pups&yoga, we emphasize this relationship as central to every session, creating a space where mutual trust and affection can flourish.
Stress Reduction for You and the Dog:
Scientific studies have shown that spending time with dogs can lower cortisol levels (the primary stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the hormone associated with love and bonding). Yoga itself also reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation, so when you perform yoga in the presence of these ting creatures, both of you form a powerful stress-busting combo, beneficial for both of you.
Accessibility and Joy:
Unlike some fitness regimens that require strict discipline or expensive equipment, yoga with dogs is accessible, inclusive, and fun. The unexpected joy of having the dog playfully interrupt your poses adds laughter and warmth to the experience. You’re not striving for perfection; you’re enjoying the moment. Sometimes, the incredible activity of dogs adds extreme happiness during yoga sessions.
Community and Connection:
Group doga sessions create a welcoming, low-pressure environment where people connect over shared interests: wellness and dogs. This fosters community support, reduces loneliness, and makes every class feel like a tail-wagging get-together.
As we already know, yoga can heal your body, both internally and externally, and adding a playful dog to the session will bring joy and happiness.
The Science Behind Yoga with Dogs
Let’s take a brief look at the science that supports the magic of combining dogs and yoga:
Touch therapy:
Petting a dog has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate. It is the reason people prefer to adopt pets, as they also help prevent loneliness.
Mindfulness practice:
Dogs naturally live in the present moment, and practising yoga with them encourages humans to do the same.
Behavioural benefits:
Calmer dogs tend to exhibit better behaviour. Yoga can help anxious or high-energy dogs calm down, especially when practised regularly.
Pups trained with consistent doga sessions often exhibit more relaxed behavior at home and in social settings.
How Doga Beneficial for Dogs?
Dogs, too, benefit from the shared experience:
- It can reduce anxiety and stress
- They will get more attention and socialization in a controlled setting
- Yoga with dogs helps them with mental stimulation
- Increased trust and comfort with people around
- Enjoyment of touch and praise
Dogs thrive on routine and attention, and yoga with dogs provides both in a structured, loving setting.
Addressing the Skeptics
Some critics view doga as a novelty with little substance. However, when done intentionally and professionally, as we ensure at Pups&Yoga, the yoga session with dogs is far from a gimmick. It is therapeutic, bonding, and evidence-based in many aspects. Even if the dog isn’t doing a perfect down-dog, the shared moment, breath, and intention carry tremendous value.
Mental health professionals are beginning to acknowledge the therapeutic potential of combining animal-assisted interaction with mindfulness-based practices. That makes doga not only beneficial but potentially transformative for some.
If you have any queries and would like to visit personally, please schedule an appointment. Once you take a single class, you will discover how it works and its impact on your mood and health.
The Future of Doga: Is It Here to Stay?
The wellness world is ever-evolving, but trends that offer genuine benefits tend to stick around. With more people seeking meaningful, joyful, and mindful experiences and pet adoption on the rise, yoga with dogs is perfectly positioned for long-term popularity.
It appeals to a wide range of individuals, including yoga lovers, dog parents, wellness seekers, and those intimidated by traditional fitness environments. Plus, as people seek work-life balance and emotional healing post-pandemic, accessible practices like doga are likely to continue flourishing.
At Pups&Yoga, we're proud to lead this growing movement, offering inclusive, heart-centred classes that bring joy to both ends of the leash.
Final Thoughts: Wellness, Wagging Tails, and a Whole Lot of Love
So, is yoga with dogs the next big wellness trend? Because it's more than just a fitness class. It's an experience rooted in presence, connection, and joy. It reminds us that wellness isn't just about the body; it’s also about the heart, relationships, and the small moments that make life beautiful. Whether you’re a lifelong yogi or a curious pet owner, Pups&Yoga welcomes you to explore this unique fusion of mindfulness and companionship. Roll out your mat, play with the new furry friend, and get ready to stretch, breathe, and bond in a truly unforgettable way.
