Ever tried doing yoga while cute puppies climb all over you? I hadn’t, until I joined a puppy yoga class in Rochester, NY. What started as a fun way to add some movement into my week, turned into a heartwarming wellness activity that tugged at more than just my yoga pants.
What Is Puppy Yoga?
Puppy yoga combines gentle yoga with free-roaming, adoptable puppies, typically 8–12 weeks old. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned yogis alike—and equally beneficial for the pups. These playful sessions help socialize the puppies, teaching them how to interact calmly with humans, other animals, and new environments.
During class, an instructor begins the practice with calming, beginner-friendly poses. Then, the real fun begins. The puppies clumsily waddle in, turning your yoga mat into their playground.
My Experience: Puppy Yoga in Rochester, NY
When I walked into Puppies & Yoga, I expected a strong kennel scent, but the studio was spotless and welcoming. The yoga instructor began the practice with a guided meditation, followed by gentle, and beginner-friendly poses. Perfect for anyone who’s easing back into yoga or trying it for the first time.
Then the puppies came out and the yoga poses quickly became a secondary focus.
Wagging tails. Tiny paws. Full chaos. They climbed on backs, nestled in laps, and even chewed on hair ties. It was hilarious and heart-warming all at once. I left feeling both energized and deeply relaxed.
Tips for Your First Puppy Yoga Class
Wear a bun. Loose hair = tug-of-war toy.
Go early. Morning classes feature the most playful pups.
Bring a towel. Studios usually provide mats, but a towel adds comfort.
Ditch the water bottle with an open top. Puppies will investigate.
Expect accidents. But expect staff to clean them quickly and thoroughly.
Capture a few memories. Then put your phone down and soak it in.
Add it to your self-care toolbox. Seriously.
Puppy Fever Is Real
I didn’t expect this class to unlock something deeper. Watching the puppies explore so freely reminded me to do the same.
By the end of class, the puppies were asleep in a little pile. I left the class not just relaxed, but with a full-blown case of puppy fever.
For years, I’d considered adopting a dog. After class, I dove into research mode:
“Best dog breeds for first-time owners”
Cesar Millan videos
Pet rescue websites
Texting my bestie, a proud Chiweenie mom
She gently reminded me: dog parenting is a lifelong commitment. They love you deeply, and you are their whole world. So, she suggested I start small.
I signed up to volunteer at a local animal rescue—to learn, help, and better understand what life with a pup really looks like. If that feels right, I may try fostering next. I want to be the kind of human a dog can count on—steady, informed, and ready.
A Wellness Habit Rekindled
