Is Puppy Yoga Suitable for Beginners? (Yes - Here's Why)

New to yoga? Intimidated by those Instagram-perfect poses and wondering if you need to be super flexible to join a class? Here's some great news: puppy yoga might just be the perfect way to start your yoga journey.

In fact, we'd argue that puppy yoga is actually better for beginners than traditional yoga classes. Here's why adding adorable puppies to your first yoga experience creates the ideal learning environment – and why you absolutely don't need any prior experience to join us.

No experience needed – just bring your sense of adventure and love for puppies!

Why Puppy Yoga Is Perfect for Yoga Beginners

The Pressure Is Off (Thanks to Adorable Distractions)

Let's be honest – one of the biggest barriers to starting yoga is feeling like you need to "look the part" or nail every pose perfectly. With puppies around, that pressure completely disappears.

When a curious golden retriever decides your downward dog looks like an invitation to play, suddenly no one cares if your form is perfect. The focus shifts from performance to presence, which is exactly what yoga should be about.

Natural Pace and Frequent Breaks

Traditional yoga classes can feel rushed for beginners trying to keep up with unfamiliar poses. Puppy yoga naturally creates a slower pace with built-in breaks – whether it's pausing to let a sleepy puppy settle on your mat or taking a moment to laugh at their playful antics.

This gentler rhythm gives beginners time to:

• Actually understand each pose before moving to the next

• Rest when needed without feeling self-conscious

• Focus on breathing and mindfulness rather than rushing through sequences

Less Intimidating Environment

Walk into a traditional yoga studio and you might feel overwhelmed by the serious atmosphere and advanced practitioners. Puppy yoga classes attract people from all backgrounds and fitness levels, united by one thing: we're all here for the puppies.

This creates a naturally welcoming, inclusive environment where beginners feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes.

What Beginner-Friendly Yoga Looks Like

Simple, Accessible Poses

Our puppy yoga sessions focus on foundational poses that work for all fitness levels:

Child's Pose: Perfect for beginners and puppies love to cuddle up next to you
Cat-Cow Stretches: Gentle spinal movement that puppies often mirror adorably Seated Forward Fold: Great for flexibility without being intimidating
Gentle Twists: Helps with mobility while staying grounded
Savasana: The ultimate relaxation pose, often with a puppy nap buddy

No Complex Sequences

Unlike traditional vinyasa classes that flow quickly between poses, puppy yoga keeps things simple. Each pose is held longer, explained clearly, and modified as needed. There's no rushing, no complex transitions, and definitely no pressure to keep up.

Built-in Modifications

Having puppies around naturally creates pose modifications. Can't reach your toes in a forward fold? No problem – you might be too busy gently petting a puppy by your feet. This organic approach to modifications helps beginners understand that yoga is about what feels good for your body, not achieving perfect alignment.

Common Beginner Concerns (And Why They Don't Apply)

"I'm Not Flexible Enough"

This is the biggest myth about yoga! Flexibility is a result of yoga practice, not a prerequisite. Plus, with puppies around, you'll be so focused on their cuteness that you won't even notice if you can't touch your toes.

Many participants tell us they were able to relax into poses more deeply than ever before because they weren't overthinking their flexibility – they were just enjoying the moment.

"I Don't Know the Poses"

Perfect! Neither do the puppies, and they're having a great time. Our instructors explain every pose clearly, demonstrate modifications, and the laid-back atmosphere means you can ask questions without feeling embarrassed.

"I'll Look Silly"

Trust us, you won't be the silliest one in the room – that honour goes to the puppy who's decided your water bottle is the most interesting toy ever. The playful energy of puppies gives everyone permission to be less serious and more joyful.

"I'm Not Spiritual or Zen Enough"

Yoga isn't about being spiritual – it's about connecting with your body and breath. Puppies naturally bring you into the present moment, which is really what mindfulness is all about. You don't need to chant or meditate; just be present with these adorable creatures.

What to Expect in Your First Puppy Yoga Session

Arrival and Settling In
Come and join us at one of our lovely, studios in London. We combine yoga & puppy cuddles for a paw-fect experience! Find your mat & meet the pups!

Yoga(ish!)
Our classes involve a mix of puppy play, and yoga surrounded by the pups.

Ps. If you just want to cuddle the puppies, that’s totally ok with us!

Puppy Circle
At the end of our classes, we finish with a puppy circle! Get smothered in puppy cuddles & kisses - sound good?!

Why Beginners Often Prefer Puppy Yoga

Less Intimidating Than Traditional Classes

Our participants regularly tell us that puppy yoga gave them the confidence to try other yoga classes. The relaxed atmosphere and focus on enjoyment rather than perfection creates a positive first impression of yoga.

Better Mind-Body Connection

Puppies naturally bring you into the present moment. This helps beginners understand what yoga is really about – connecting with your body, breath, and the present moment rather than achieving perfect poses.

Natural Stress Relief

The combination of gentle movement and animal therapy creates immediate stress relief. Many beginners are amazed at how relaxed they feel after just one session.

Community Building

The shared experience of laughing at puppy antics creates instant connections. We've seen many beginners form friendships and even start attending regular yoga classes together.

Tips for Your First Puppy Yoga Experience

What to Wear

• Comfortable, stretchy clothes you don't mind getting a little furry

• Avoid loose jewellery and long earrings that might get caught on curious puppy claws

What to Bring

• Water bottle (puppies love investigating these!)

• Open mind and sense of humor

• Your phone to fill it up with adorable pictures!

What to Expect Physically

• Gentle movement that shouldn't leave you sore

• Possible slight stretching sensations (this is normal!)

• Feeling more relaxed and centered than when you arrived

Mental Preparation

• Come with zero expectations about your yoga "performance"

• Be prepared to laugh and not take yourself too seriously

• Remember that everyone started as a beginner

The Science Behind Why This Works

Reduced Cortisol Levels

Animal interaction naturally lowers stress hormones, making you more receptive to trying new things and less likely to feel anxious about your first yoga experience.

Increased Oxytocin

The "bonding hormone" released during positive interactions with animals creates feelings of calm and connectedness – perfect for a first yoga experience.

Mindfulness Without Effort

Puppies naturally draw your attention to the present moment, achieving the mindfulness goals of yoga without having to work at it.

Beyond Your First Session

Building Confidence

Many beginners find that puppy yoga gives them the confidence to explore other forms of yoga. The foundation of breathwork and basic poses learned in our sessions translates beautifully to other classes.

Developing a Practice

Several of our regular participants started as complete beginners and now have home yoga practices. The joy and relaxation they experienced in puppy yoga motivated them to continue their journey.

Community Connection

Our beginner-friendly approach has created a supportive community where experienced participants naturally mentor newcomers, creating an ongoing cycle of encouragement.

Addressing Special Considerations

Physical Limitations

Our gentle approach works for most physical limitations. If you have specific concerns, our instructors can suggest modifications or alternative poses that work for your body.

Anxiety About Animals

If you're nervous around dogs, puppy yoga might actually help! The calm, supervised environment allows you to interact with gentle, well-socialised puppies at your own pace.

What Our Beginner Students Say

“What a lovely and original yoga session! I was not sure what to expect and everything was well explained. I really appreciated the attention to the well being of the puppies. The yoga itself was cosy and relaxing, just like I like it!”

“Such a great experience with a combination of a light yoga session and puppy cuddles! Perfect for a group activity or with a friend to get those endorphins flowing!”

"It's amazing how much joy you can get from spending time with such beautiful little puppies! The yoga was pretty cool too, got us nice and chilled (before we got all excited & started gushing over the puppies!). A highly enjoyable experience!”

The magic happens when you stop worrying about perfect poses and start enjoying the moment

Ready to Start Your Yoga Journey?

If you've been thinking about trying yoga but felt intimidated by traditional classes, puppy yoga offers the perfect gentle introduction. You'll learn foundational poses, discover what mindfulness actually feels like, and have fun in the process. Plus, you'll leave with adorable photos and maybe some new friends – both human and canine.

Book your beginner-friendly puppy yoga session and discover why this might just be the best way to start your yoga journey. Check our class schedule for sessions marked "beginner-friendly" or read our FAQ for more information about what to expect.

Your future, more flexible, more relaxed self will thank you. And so will the puppies who are excited to meet you! 🐾