Instructions
Take your dog for a walk before starting a doga session to help work off extra energy. It is best to do yoga poses for dogs when your furry friend is calm and relaxed. To begin, start with just one or two poses at a time to get your dog used to the new activity.
Join a doga class in your area if it is available. This is the best way to get variety and learn proper technique. In organized doga classes, instructors lead guided classes, helping dogs and their owners get a good stretch together.
Start with sun salutations, just as you would with your own yoga practice. Stand behind your dog and pick up the front paws, lifting them up over the dog's head and stretching the entire body. For tender dogs, simply hold them under the arms. Hold for a few moments and gently bring the paws back to the floor.
Move into upward facing dog. With your dog on all four paws, place your hands gently under the hips and lift the feet off of the ground, stretching the lower back. Again, hold for a few seconds and then repeat the sun salutation, repeating these two poses 3 or 4 times.
Perform the doga boat pose, gently coaxing your dog onto his side and gently holding the front paws. Lift the paws gently to create a stretch across the belly. This is a great time to take a moment for love and belly rubs.
Roll your dog over onto her belly for the locust. While human bodies can create a backward bend, all your buddy needs to do for this doga pose is rest on her belly with front and back paws outstretched. Once in position, massage the back muscles slowly and gently.
End with a meditation pose, as in all yoga styles. Simply lay on your back on the floor with your arms and legs outstretched, allowing your dog to rest peacefully at your side. Remain in your yoga meditation for at least five minutes and then give your dog plenty of praise for a yoga session well done.
How to Do Doga
Doga, or yoga for dogs, may sound like a strange concept. However, for older dogs or dogs with injuries, gentle assisted stretching can help to improve quality of life and increase the speed of healing. Doga requires patience, as some dogs may not have the attention span to complete a long series of poses or hold a posture, but it's well worth the time.