If you’re looking for a relaxing, mood-boosting activity, may I suggest puppy yoga?
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a yoga class which puppies also attend.
But beyond the sheer cuteness factor, these classes come with a litany of benefits.
As Victor Nguyen – co-founder of Doga Sydney – says, “Animals can have a powerful calming effect on humans. Some research shows that petting a dog can even lower cortisol, raise oxytocin levels and reduce blood pressure.”
And so, when puppies are integrated into a yoga class, they help “reduce stress, boost motivation and create a more relaxed, emotionally supportive fitness environment.”
But humans aren’t the only ones who benefit.
“These classes also provide a safe, positive environment for puppies to socialise with each other and get used to building confidence around humans,” Victor says.
Where can I do puppy yoga in Australia?
Well, that depends on where you live in Australia…
Puppy yoga in Sydney:
Decathlon
Sporting goods retailer Decathlon has recently opened its first-ever Australian fitness studio in Sydney.
And on Saturday, May 17, 2025, Decathlon, in partnership with Doga Sydney, will host two puppy pilates sessions – one at 10am and one at 12pm.
I recently attended a puppy pilates class at Decathlon’s new fitness studio and can’t recommend it enough! Seriously, talk about an endorphins high.
And yes, I know pilates is not the same as yoga. But it’s similar enough, and if you’re like me, you’ll do little to no pilates and just play with the adorable puppies instead…
Tickets, which will go on sale via Eventbrite on May 9, are just $25 and all proceeds will go to the RSPCA.
Doga Sydney
If you’re dead set on yoga rather than pilates, Doga Sydney offers classes in several Sydney suburbs like Chatswood, Parramatta, and Mosman.
Each class runs for an hour, with 45 minutes dedicated to yoga and 15 minutes dedicated to puppy playtime. Prices start at $65.
Puppy Yoga
Puppy Yoga is on a mission to support mental health and wellbeing.
And so, the company offers stress-free, mood-boosting classes where you can practice yoga with the aid of puppies!
You’re not the only one who’ll reap the benefits though; the classes help socialise the puppies and they leave class “with a newfound sense of confidence, love, and zen.”
Classes are held across Sydney – as well as in Melbourne and Brisbane – and prices start at $77.
In Melbourne:
Puppy Yoga
As aforementioned, Puppy Yoga offers classes across Melbourne and prices start at $77.
Puppy Yoga Melbourne
The team at Puppy Yoga Melbourne – which, despite the similar name, has no affiliation with Puppy Yoga listed above – believe that “every puppy deserves to feel safe, loved and free to explore the world at their own pace.”
The focus of the classes are on the gentle socialisation of the puppies, so you’ll be able to play and cuddle to your heart’s content. Prices start at $70.
In Brisbane:
As aforementioned, Puppy Yoga offers classes across Brisbane and prices start at $77.
Yoga Paws
Yoga Paws’ classes help puppies build their confidence, reduce their anxiety, and help them grow into well-adjusted, friendly dogs.
As for humans, the classes are designed to be relaxing yet enjoyable for all levels.
Yoga Paws offer classes in Brisbane as well as in the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, Perth and Sydney. Prices start at $70.
In Perth:
Yoga Paws
As aforementioned, Yoga Paws offers classes in Perth and prices start at $70.
