How to Do Puppy Yoga Pose? An Ultimate Guide

Puppy yoga is not just an adorable activity; it's a wellness trend that combines physical movement, relaxation, and emotional joy while spending time with playful pups. As we already know, puppy yoga is a fusion of traditional yoga and playful interaction with puppies. These sessions typically involve guided yoga movements with free-roaming puppies who may snuggle with, sit on, or play around with participants. The "puppy yoga pose" isn't a specific asana; instead, it refers to safe yoga positions that are inviting and engaging for both human and pup participants. Whether you're a yogi seeking something new or a dog lover looking for a fun workout, this guide serves as your ultimate introduction to the puppy yoga pose and how to incorporate it into your session.

Preparation: What You Need?

To get the maximum advantage of a puppy yoga session, you must be ready and take care of the following aspects:

• Comfortable clothes
• Water to keep the body Hydrated

Join our Puppy Yoga class, where you don't need to worry about other things. Just book your session and join it. It is as easy.

Top Puppy Yoga Poses (With Instructions)

Here’s how to incorporate the most popular yoga poses with puppies, where puppies can participate safely and comfortably.

Puppy Pose (Uttana Shishosana):

This pose literally shares a name with the theme. It’s a heart-opening stretch between Child’s Pose and Downward Dog.

Steps:

• Start on all fours in a tabletop position.
• Keep your hips above your knees and walk your hands forward.
• Lower your forehead to the mat, allowing your chest to melt down.
• Hold for 30 seconds, breathing deeply.

Puppy Involvement:

• Puppies often crawl under your chest or lay next to you.
• Place a soft towel under your face in case a pup wants kisses!

Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana):

An iconic puppy yoga pose and one dog naturally perform.

Steps:

• Begin in a tabletop position.
• Tuck your toes under and lift your hips up and back.
• Keep your spine long and knees soft.
• Press heels gently toward the floor.

Puppy Involvement:

·       Puppies may run under your tummy or sniff your hands.

·       They might mimic the stretch, making it a literal downward dog.

Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana):

The calming puppy yoga pose offers a front-facing opportunity for puppy cuddles.

Steps:

• Sit on the mat with legs stretched straight out.
• Inhale, raise arms overhead.
• Exhale, hinge at the hips, and reach toward your toes.
• Keep your spine long and chest open.

Puppy Involvement:

• Place a puppy on your lap to encourage stillness.
• Gently pet the puppy while holding the stretch.

Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana):

It is excellent for spine flexibility and a fun pose for puppies to explore.

Steps:

• Lie on your back with knees bent and feet hip-width apart.
• Press into feet and lift hips.
• Clasp your hands under your back and press your arms into the mat.
• Hold for 20–30 seconds.

Puppy Involvement:

• A puppy may sit on your belly (with supervision).
• Use it as a bonding moment by gently cradling them after the pose.

Savasana (Corpse Pose):

The closing pose of any yoga practice—and the ultimate bonding moment.

Steps:

• Lie flat on your back with your arms at your sides, palms facing up.
• Close your eyes and relax every muscle.
• Breathe deeply for 5–10 minutes.

Puppy Involvement:

• Let a puppy cuddle on your chest or lie beside you.
• This stillness often calms them as well.

You will learn all the above-mentioned puppy yoga poses during our classes. Knowing them beforehand will help you perform them well, as yoga is a practice where proper postures yield benefits, but the wrong Mudra can ruin the entire practice. So, teach it and perform it well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

At Pups&Yoga, we strive to ensure that every participant has a fulfilling, safe, and heartwarming experience. To help you make the most of your puppy yoga session, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of common mistakes to avoid, backed by practical advice. Have a look:

Arriving Late to the Session:

One of the biggest disruptors in a puppy yoga class is tardiness. Arriving late not only distracts other participants but can also unsettle the puppies. Puppies are sensitive to new arrivals, especially when they are already acclimating to the space and the energy of the room. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. This gives you time to check in, choose your spot, greet the puppies, and settle into a relaxed state of mind.

Ignoring the Puppies’ Boundaries:

Puppies are irresistibly cute, but they're also little beings with emotions and boundaries. One common mistake participants make is overwhelming or overstimulating the puppies by petting them too much, picking them up without permission, or interrupting their naps. So, let puppies approach you. If a puppy wants to lie on your mat, great! If not, respect their space. Observe their body language, and never force interactions.

Bringing Food or Strong Scents:

Some participants may bring snacks or coffee or wear strong perfume, forgetting that puppies have incredibly sensitive noses. Food smells can excite or overstimulate them, and strong perfumes may be irritating or even harmful to them. It is better to avoid eating in the yoga space. Please refrain from wearing perfumes or scented lotions during the session. Stick to neutral hygiene products that won't trigger the puppies' noses.

Treating It Like a Regular Yoga Class:

While yoga with dogs incorporates puppy yoga poses, it's not meant to be an intense workout session. Participants often make the mistake of focusing too much on "perfecting" their practice and forget to enjoy the playful and spontaneous moments with the puppies. You have to come with a flexible mindset. Embrace the unexpected, whether it's a puppy lying on your back during a child's pose or licking your face during savasana. It's about joy and mindfulness, not performance.

Not Following the Instructor’s Guidelines:

Your yoga instructor will provide essential cues, not just for yoga poses but also for interacting with the puppies and maintaining a harmonious environment. Ignoring or casually dismissing these instructions can create chaos. Listen actively and follow instructions, especially during transitions or when the instructor is managing puppy behavior. They are trained to maintain a balance between yoga and interacting with their puppies.

Variations for Different Levels

Beginners:

• Focus on seated or floor poses.
• Use yoga blocks or cushions for support.

Intermediate:

• Try balancing poses like Tree Pose while holding a calm puppy.

Advanced:

• Incorporate gentle vinyasa flows with mindful movement around the puppies.

Mental and Emotional Connection with Puppies

One of the hidden benefits of a Puppy yoga pose is the deep emotional connection that forms between participants and animals. It teaches empathy, encourages care, and enhances the overall yoga experience beyond physical movement. Practicing alongside puppies encourages us to move gently, breathe deeply, and smile often.

Health Considerations

• Pregnant women, seniors, or individuals with injuries should consult a physician before participating.
• Avoid strong scents (lotions or perfumes) that may irritate pups.

Moreover, please consult with our experts and get assistance before joining the class. We ensure that it will help you understand the puppy yoga pose, its concept, and its associated medical benefits. So, book your appointment today.

FAQs

What kind of puppies are used in puppy yoga?

Calm, friendly, and healthy puppies, often from rescue centers or breeders.

Is puppy yoga suitable for kids?

Yes, with supervision, and those above 8 years old are allowed to join us. It's a great family activity.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of puppy yoga poses lies in their simplicity: mindful movement, furry companionship, and joyful presence. Whether you're deep in downward dog or resting in savasana with a puppy curled against you, the emotional warmth and physical benefits are undeniable. It's more than a trend; it’s a heartwarming, soul-soothing way to move and connect.