Puppy yoga brings together two of life’s purest joys: mindful movement and baby animals. These 75-minute pop-up wellness sessions combine a 45-minute all-levels vinyasa flow with 30 minutes of puppy cuddle and playtime, creating a fun, energizing, and deeply mood-boosting experience.
Sessions run mostly on weekends in major U.S. cities like puppy yoga Manhattan (Upper East Side) and Boston/Cambridge, as well as other hubs such as Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Austin, and San Francisco. With yoga mats and a wellness drink included, all you need to bring is comfortable clothes and your love of puppies.
What Exactly Is Puppy Yoga?
Puppy yoga is a playful twist on classic yoga practice. You will move through a guided vinyasa flow while a group of 8–12 week old, vaccinated puppies wanders around the room. Some may curl up on your mat, others will nuzzle your hands during poses, and many will deliver surprise bursts of joy just when you need them most.
These puppies come from vetted local breeders near each city (typically within about an hour). Litters usually include 6–12 puppies per session, and for their health and safety, litters are never mixed. It is a carefully designed environment where humans get a wellness boost and puppies enjoy gentle early socialization before joining their future families.
How a 75-Minute Puppy Yoga Session Works
Each event is structured so you can relax, move, and fully soak in the puppy magic without feeling rushed.
The Flow: 45 Minutes of All-Levels Vinyasa
The first part of your session focuses on a guided, all-levels vinyasa flow. Instructors design classes so that:
- Beginners feel supported and never overwhelmed.
- More experienced yogis can deepen their practice with optional variations.
- Everyone can move safely around the puppies, with clear guidance on transitions.
The atmosphere is light, playful, and non-judgmental. Think fun music, gentle cues, and the freedom to smile, pause, or snap a quick pic of a puppy snoozing on your mat.
The Best Part: 30 Minutes of Puppy Cuddles and Play
After savasana, it is time for pure puppy bliss. The final 30 minutes are dedicated to:
- Cuddling puppies on your mat or a soft corner of the studio.
- Taking those Insta-worthy, photo-friendly moments with friends and partners.
- Gently playing, petting, and enjoying the puppies at a calm, respectful pace.
Staff and instructors help ensure that each guest gets quality time with the puppies while always putting puppy wellness first. If a puppy wants to nap, they are allowed to nap. If another wants to play, staff guide interactions to keep things safe and positive.
What Is Included With Your Ticket?
Every ticket is designed as a complete, elevated wellness moment. Your puppy yoga session typically includes:
- 75-minute experience: 45 minutes of yoga + 30 minutes of puppy chill time.
- All-levels yoga class: Accessible for beginners and still satisfying for regular practitioners.
- Puppy cuddle and playtime: Dedicated interaction time after class.
- Yoga mat provided: No need to bring your own gear (unless you prefer to).
- Wellness drink: A refreshing, feel-good beverage to round out the experience.
Because mats and drinks are included, you can treat this like a ready-made wellness date, group outing, or solo self-care ritual.
Where and When You Can Join a Puppy Yoga Class
Puppy yoga events are hosted as pop-up sessions on weekends, with time slots offered throughout the day (for example, mornings through late afternoon). You will typically find classes in:
- New York City– Upper East Side studios.
- Boston & Cambridge– Accessible studio locations in the metro area.
- Other major U.S. cities– Including Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Austin, and San Francisco.
New dates are generally released around two months in advance, giving you time to plan birthdays, bachelorette events, team outings, or a special weekend treat.
Who Puppy Yoga Is Perfect For
These sessions are intentionally beginner-friendly and welcoming. You will fit right in if you are:
- A student looking for a fun, low-pressure way to move your body.
- A working professional craving a cheerful stress release between busy weeks.
- A visitor exploring the local wellness scene in cities like NYC or Boston.
- A dog lover who is not able to have a pet at home but still wants puppy time.
- A group of friends, couples, or coworkers looking for a unique, photo-ready outing.
The atmosphere is social, relaxed, and filled with laughter. There is no expectation to nail every pose. The priority is feeling good and enjoying the moment.
How the Puppies Are Sourced and Cared For
Behind the scenes, a lot of care goes into making sure the experience is safe and positive for the puppies first, and humans second.
Local, Vetted Breeders
Puppies come from reputable, local breeders close to each city (usually within about an hour). Importantly:
- Puppies are between 8 and 12 weeks old.
- They are vaccinated before participating.
- They attend classes only for a short stage in their lives, right before joining their new homes.
- After classes, they return to their breeders until adoption.
- Puppies from different litters are not mixed, to protect their immune systems.
This controlled environment helps puppies have gentle, structured interactions with humans, which can reduce stress and support smoother transitions into their future families.
Socialization Benefits for Puppies
Puppy yoga is more than a cute photo opportunity. Well-managed sessions can contribute to a puppy's early development:
- Exposure to different voices, movements, and gentle touches.
- Practice being calm around new people and environments.
- Positive associations with humans as sources of comfort and fun.
Because puppy wellness is always the top priority, interaction is never forced. If a puppy needs a break, staff ensure they can rest or step aside from play.
Photo-Friendly, Insta-Worthy Moments
Puppy yoga is intentionally designed to be highly photo-friendly. From the bright, cozy studio setups to the playful energy of puppies weaving through yoga poses, you will have endless opportunities for:
- Candid shots of puppies dozing on mats.
- Group photos after class with the litter.
- Fun action moments during puppy playtime.
While you are encouraged to be present and mindful, there is always time for capturing memories. Many guests come back specifically to recreate the magic or to bring friends who “have to experience it for themselves.”
Important Safety and Participation Guidelines
To keep the experience smooth and safe for everyone, there are a few key operational details to know before you book or arrive.
Age Requirements
- Minimum age: 10 years old to attend a session.
- Participants under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
This helps ensure that all interactions with the puppies are gentle, predictable, and respectful.
Arrival and Late Entry Policy
- Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to check in, sign your waiver, and settle onto your mat.
- No entry is allowed 20 minutes after the session begins. This minimizes disruptions for the class and keeps the puppies’ environment calm.
Waivers and Potential Risks
Because you are interacting with live animals, there are some inherent risks, even in a carefully managed setting. As part of check-in:
- All participants sign a waiver before joining the session.
- You acknowledge the possibility of minor incidents such as scratches or small bites.
Staff are present throughout to monitor interactions, guide safe handling, and keep both humans and puppies as comfortable as possible.
It is also important to understand that, for the sake of the animals’ wellbeing, interaction with the puppies cannot be absolutely guaranteed. If a puppy is tired, shy, or needs space, their needs come first. That said, sessions are intentionally structured to offer ample cuddle and playtime for guests.
How Puppy Breeds Are Announced
One of the most exciting parts of booking a session is discovering which breed or mix will be in the studio that weekend. Typical communication includes:
- Breeds announced up to three days before the weekend on social media stories.
- Breed information also updated on the relevant booking page.
Because puppies are living animals and plans can shift, breeds cannot be guaranteed and may change last minute if needed. Litters are always chosen with safety and welfare in mind first.
Ticket Policies, Transfers, and Cancellations
These events operate on a pop-up model, with limited capacity and high demand. To keep operations smooth:
- All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.
- You can typically transfer or change your class up to three days before the event, subject to availability.
This structure helps organizers coordinate puppies, breeders, instructors, and studio time, so every session feels polished and well-run.
Health Considerations and Suitability
Many people find puppy yoga gentle and accessible, but there are some considerations:
- If you are pregnant, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider before participating, to confirm it is appropriate for you.
- If you have allergies to dogs, consider whether you might need medication or whether this experience is right for you.
- If you have mobility limitations, reach out to organizers in advance to ask about modifications, seating, or support.
Instructors are experienced in offering modifications for all levels, so you can absolutely take it slow, stay on your knees, or rest whenever you like.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Since yoga mats and a wellness drink are included, preparing for your session is simple.
What to Wear
- Comfortable workout clothes you can move and stretch in.
- Layers you can remove as you warm up.
- Items you do not mind getting a little fur on.
What to Bring
- A water bottle, if you like extra hydration.
- A hair tie or headband if you have long hair.
- Your phone or camera for photos (kept on silent during practice).
- An open, playful mindset.
You can usually leave valuables in a safe corner of the studio, but it is best to bring only what you truly need.
The Wellness Benefits of Puppy Yoga
Puppy yoga feels joyful in the moment, but it also supports your wellbeing long after class ends.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
- Stress relief: Gentle movement, guided breathing, and animal interaction can help calm your nervous system.
- Mood boost: Puppies naturally invite laughter, playfulness, and a sense of childlike wonder.
- Mindful presence: It is hard to worry about your inbox when a puppy curls up by your hands in child’s pose.
Physical Benefits
- Improved flexibility through accessible stretches and flows.
- Gentle strength building, especially in the core, legs, and shoulders.
- Better posture and body awareness from moving intentionally and slowly.
Social and Connection Benefits
- Great for meeting new people in a relaxed, fun environment.
- Perfect as a date idea, friend outing, or team-building activity.
- Shared memories and photos that extend the joy beyond the studio.
Sample Puppy Yoga Session Schedule
To help you picture your visit, here is an example breakdown of a typical 75-minute session.
| Time | Activity | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0:00–0:15 | Arrival and Check-In | Sign waivers, remove shoes, claim your mat, get settled. |
| 0:15–1:00 | All-Levels Vinyasa Flow | Gentle warm-up, standing poses, balance work, and stretches with puppies nearby. |
| 1:00–1:15 | Savasana and Transition | Guided relaxation, then a smooth shift into cuddle time. |
| 1:15–1:45 | Puppy Cuddle & Playtime | Photos, cuddles, and play with the litter; wellness drink enjoyment. |
Exact timing can vary slightly by studio and time slot, but this gives you a realistic feel for the flow.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Session
- Book early: Weekends and popular time slots often sell out quickly.
- Arrive on time: Give yourself a cushion for transit so you can enjoy the full experience.
- Embrace imperfection: If a puppy decides to nap on your mat mid-pose, enjoy the detour.
- Stay present: Take photos, but also put your phone aside part of the time to fully feel the experience.
- Respect the puppies: Follow staff guidance, let them rest when they need to, and keep your energy calm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is puppy yoga suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. Classes are explicitly designed to be beginner-friendly. Instructors offer clear cues and multiple variations so you can move at your own pace. Many attendees are trying yoga for the very first time.
How many puppies will be in my session?
Most sessions feature 6–12 puppies, depending on the litter. For health reasons, litters are not mixed, so the exact number can vary based on that particular group.
Can I adopt the puppies from class?
Puppies come from local breeders and are on their way to their future homes, so the specific adoption process is handled directly by the breeders, not during the yoga session. The class is designed as a wellness and socialization experience rather than a direct adoption event.
What if I need to change my booking?
Because events are pop-up and carefully planned, tickets are non-refundable. However, you can usually transfer or change your class up to three days before your scheduled time, subject to availability.
What if I am late?
To protect the flow of class and keep things calm for the puppies, no entry is allowed 20 minutes after the session begins. Plan ahead so you can enjoy the full 75-minute experience.
Why Puppy Yoga Is Worth Adding to Your Wellness Routine
In a world that often feels busy and screen-heavy, puppy yoga offers something rare: a chance to move your body, calm your mind, and connect with animals and people in a joyful, low-pressure setting.
Whether you are in New York City’s Upper East Side, Boston/Cambridge, or another major U.S. city, these 75-minute sessions make it easy to schedule a burst of happiness into your weekend. With mats and wellness drinks provided, all-level flows, and professional instructors guiding the way, it is a polished experience that still feels playful and spontaneous.
If you are looking for a fresh way to treat yourself, celebrate a milestone, or surprise someone special, puppy yoga is a heartwarming choice that people remember long after class ends.
