Doga: Bend it like your pet dog

If you’ve ever noticed your dog stretching out its front or back legs then you know there is a connection between dogs and yoga. Those stretches are mimicked in most yoga practices, forming the cornerstone poses of upward and downward dog. Many animal-like poses are featured in yoga, but it isn’t overly practical to do yoga with a cow or a lion, so why not corral your domesticated furry friend instead? That’s right, doga; yoga for dogs!

You can practice doga one of two ways, with your dog as an active participant, or by simply allowing it to visit with other dogs in the class as your perform your asanas. Doga can be practiced at home with your dog, or by attending a class for other dog owners.

If you choose to practice the former, there are a variety of positions you can aid your dog in achieving, including wheelbarrow, forward bend, and even chair pose. In addition to building the bond between you and your dog, these poses can help your pooch physically by improving circulation. Doga also functions as a form of behavioral therapy and can help to calm a hyperactive or anxious dog.

It may be difficult to find a doga class at first, but this latest trend in yoga is sure to catch on like those before it!