Puppy Yoga in New York City turns a classic yoga class into a playful, heart-melting wellness experience. On weekends in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, you can roll out your mat for a 75-minute session that combines a 45-minute, all-levels vinyasa flow with 30 minutes of dedicated puppy cuddle time. With 6–12 vaccinated, adoptable puppies exploring the room, a yoga mat ready for you, and a wellness drink cart on hand, it’s one of NYC’s most uplifting ways to unwind, reset, and connect.
What Is Puppy Yoga in New York City?
Puppy yoga blends guided yoga with the joyful presence of young, adoptable pups. While a certified instructor leads you through a beginner-friendly flow, curious puppies wander around, nap on your mat, or nuzzle into your side in savasana. The vibe is relaxed, light-hearted, and social — more about stress relief and smiles than nailing the perfect pose.
In NYC, this experience takes the energy of the city and softens it with wagging tails and tiny paws. It’s designed for anyone looking for:
- Stress relief from a busy workweek or city life.
- Gentle movement to stretch, breathe, and reconnect with your body.
- Social connection with fellow dog lovers and wellness fans.
- Adorable, Insta-worthy moments that you’ll want to share later.
Inside the 75-Minute Puppy Yoga NYC Experience
Each session in Manhattan lasts 75 minutes and is intentionally structured to give you both a real yoga practice and unhurried time with the puppies.
The First 45 Minutes: All-Levels Vinyasa Flow
Your experience begins with a 45-minute vinyasa session that’s truly all levels. Certified instructors guide you through a flowing sequence of poses focused on breathing, light stretching, and simple strength-building.
You can expect:
- Beginner-friendly instruction with clear options to modify or deepen each pose.
- A relaxed, non-competitive atmosphere where laughing when a puppy sits on your mat is absolutely encouraged.
- A provided yoga mat so you can travel light — no need to bring your own unless you prefer it.
- A wellness drink cart available during the experience, adding a little extra self-care to your class.
Because puppies roam freely, your practice will be playfully interrupted — a pup may curl up beside you in child’s pose or trot by just as you move into downward dog. The goal isn’t a perfectly focused yoga session; it’s a gently active, feel-good experience.
The Last 30 Minutes: Dedicated Puppy Chill Time
After your flow, the final 30 minutes are reserved for one thing: puppy time. You’ll be able to sit, stretch, or lie back on your mat while the pups explore, cuddle, and nap.
This is your chance to:
- Snuggle and play with the puppies in a relaxed, no-rush setting.
- Take photos and videos for your camera roll or social media — the experience is designed to be delightfully photo-ready.
- Connect with other attendees over your shared love of dogs and wellness.
- Unwind fully after movement, letting the puppy cuddles deepen that post-yoga calm.
Because puppy wellness comes first, interaction levels can vary. Sometimes a pup is sleepy, sometimes extra playful — and that unpredictability is part of the charm. The team prioritizes the dogs’ comfort, so while you’ll be surrounded by them, specific interactions can’t be guaranteed.
Why Puppy Yoga Is the Ultimate NYC Weekend Reset
In a city that never slows down, this 75-minute experience offers a much-needed pause — with built-in joy.
1. A Mood Boost You Can Feel
Gentle yoga and time with animals are both widely associated with reduced stress and improved mood. Many people find that combining movement, breathing, and puppy cuddles helps them:
- Let go of weekday tension.
- Feel more grounded and present.
- Walk out lighter, happier, and more energized.
2. Movement That’s Accessible, Not Intimidating
Whether you have a regular practice or can’t remember the last time you stretched, this class is intentionally beginner-friendly. The focus is on feeling good, not pushing your limits.
Expect:
- Simple flows that build warmth and mobility.
- Plenty of options to rest, modify, or skip poses.
- An instructor who keeps the atmosphere light, encouraging, and welcoming.
3. Built-In Social Connection
Puppy yoga is naturally social. The moment a puppy tumbles into someone’s lap, the whole room lights up. It’s an easy, low-pressure way to:
- Bond with friends, a partner, or coworkers over a unique activity.
- Meet new people who love dogs and wellness as much as you do.
- Celebrate special occasions with something more memorable than a standard brunch.
4. A Memorable NYC Experience for Locals and Visitors
Because the classes run on weekends on the Upper East Side, they fit seamlessly into a busy New Yorker’s schedule or a short New York City visit. It’s a standout option if you’re looking for:
- A fun weekend ritual that feels like self-care.
- A unique activity to add to your NYC itinerary.
- Something fresh to do with visiting friends or family.
Meet the Puppies: 6–12 Adoptable Pups Each Session
Every session features between 6 and 12 puppies. They are typically:
- Between 8 and 12 weeks old— that irresistibly cuddly age.
- Vaccinated and cleared to safely join the session.
- Adoptable and on their way to their future homes.
The organizers partner with local breeders near each city. For health and safety, litters are not mixed during classes. The puppies participate in sessions shortly before joining or returning to their homes, and then go back to their breeders afterward.
There is also a socialization benefit for the pups. Gentle interaction with humans in a calm, supervised environment can help them get used to new sights, sounds, and people, which may support an easier transition into their new families’ homes.
How Puppy Breeds Are Announced
Curious which fluffy faces you’ll meet? Puppy breeds are usually announced about three days before each weekend on the company’s website and social media channels. Because many factors can affect availability, specific breeds are not guaranteed and may change at the last minute.
Key Details: When, Where, and What’s Included
Puppy Yoga NYC is structured as a pop-up weekend experience hosted at studios on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Here is a quick overview of what you can expect with a standard ticket.
| Detail | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Location | Manhattan, Upper East Side (pop-up studios) |
| Days | Weekends (Saturdays and Sundays, multiple time slots) |
| Session length | 75 minutes total (45 minutes yoga + 30 minutes puppy chill) |
| Typical ticket price | Usually around $69 per person |
| What’s included | Yoga mat for the session, wellness drink cart, all-levels class, time with 6–12 puppies |
| Age requirement | Participants must be at least 10 years old (minors under 15 must be accompanied by an adult) |
| Arrival time | Arrive 15 minutes early; entry is not allowed 20 minutes after the session begins |
| Waiver | All participants must sign a waiver before joining |
| Puppy risks | As with any interaction with animals, minor scratches or bites are possible |
| Puppy interaction | Contact with individual puppies cannot be guaranteed; their wellbeing is the first priority |
| Ticket policy | All ticket sales are final and non-refundable, but transfers to another class are typically allowed up to 3 days before the event |
Important Policies to Know Before You Go
To keep the experience safe, smooth, and enjoyable for both humans and puppies, there are a few key policies to understand.
Age and Participation
- Minimum age is 10 years old for all participants.
- Minors under 15 must attend with an accompanying adult.
- If you are pregnant or have specific health conditions, it is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before participating to ensure the class is right for you.
Waivers and Safety
All attendees must sign a waiver before class. This acknowledges that, while the environment is supervised, interacting with puppies carries inherent risks, such as the possibility of light scratches or minor bites. Wearing comfortable, slightly less delicate clothing can be a smart choice.
Ticket Sales, Refunds, and Transfers
Because these are limited-capacity pop-up events with real puppies involved, planning is precise. As a result:
- All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.
- You can typically transfer your ticket to another class up to three days before your scheduled event, subject to availability.
It is a good idea to double-check your date, time, and availability before purchasing, then set a reminder so you do not miss out.
How to Prepare for Your Puppy Yoga Session
Maximize your experience with a few simple steps before you arrive on the Upper East Side.
Arrive Early and Travel Light
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled class to check in, sign your waiver, and get comfortable.
- Remember that late arrivals beyond 20 minutes after the session starts cannot be admitted, to avoid disrupting the class.
- Since yoga mats are included, you can keep belongings minimal and move easily around the studio.
Dress for Comfort (and Cuddles)
- Wear comfortable, flexible clothing for yoga — think leggings, joggers, and breathable tops.
- Consider pieces you do not mind getting a little fur on. Puppies may climb into your lap, paws and all.
- Bring a light layer if you tend to get cool during relaxation or sitting on the floor.
Bring Your Puppy-Loving Mindset
Every session is different because puppies are individuals. Some are snuggly, some are playful, some nap most of the time. Arriving with an open, flexible mindset helps you enjoy whatever unfolds — from a pup snoozing on your mat to a burst of zoomies across the room.
Who Puppy Yoga NYC Is Perfect For
Puppy yoga is designed to be inclusive and welcoming. It is a particularly great fit if you are:
- A dog lover who cannot currently own a dog but still craves puppy time.
- A stressed-out New Yorker looking for a playful yet restorative reset on the weekend.
- New to yoga and wanting a relaxed, low-pressure first experience.
- Planning a special outing— date day, birthday, celebration with friends, or a team-building idea.
- Visiting NYC and craving something unique and memorable beyond the typical tourist stops.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Yoga NYC
Is the yoga really beginner-friendly?
Yes. Classes are intentionally structured so that people of all experience levels feel comfortable. The instructors are certified and offer modifications and options throughout the flow. If you are new to yoga, you can take it easy and rest whenever you like — the puppies will keep things lighthearted.
Can I interact freely with the puppies?
You will be in the same room with the puppies throughout the class, and the final 30 minutes are dedicated to puppy time. However, the wellbeing of the dogs is always the priority. Interaction is supervised, and contact with any individual puppy is not guaranteed. Sometimes a pup may choose to nap or wander elsewhere, and that is respected.
Where do the puppies come from?
The puppies are provided by local breeders near each city. They are typically 8–12 weeks old, vaccinated, and join sessions shortly before heading to or returning to their homes. For health reasons, litters are not mixed within a single session.
How many puppies will be in my class?
Each session usually hosts between 6 and 12 puppies. The exact number can vary depending on the litter and availability, but classes are designed to feel lively and full of puppy energy without overwhelming the animals.
Are the puppies adoptable?
Yes. The puppies you meet are adoptable and on their journey to their new families. The time they spend in class helps gently socialize them with humans, which can support an easier transition into home life later on.
How will I know which breeds will be at my class?
Breeds are typically announced around three days before each weekend on the company’s website and social media. Because things can change due to availability and the puppies’ needs, specific breeds cannot be guaranteed and may vary at the last minute.
Can I get a refund if my plans change?
Due to the pop-up nature of the events and the planning involved with live animals, all ticket sales are final and non-refundable. However, you can usually transfer your ticket to another class up to three days before your scheduled session, subject to availability.
What if I am pregnant or have health concerns?
While puppy yoga is generally gentle, it is always wise to check with your healthcare provider before participating if you are pregnant or have specific medical considerations. They can help you decide whether the class is appropriate for you and suggest any needed modifications.
puppy yoga New-York in New York City brings together movement, mindfulness, and the simple joy of being surrounded by puppies — all in one 75-minute, weekend-friendly experience on the Upper East Side. With a yoga mat and wellness drink included, certified instructors, 6–12 adoptable pups, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it is an easy way to trade city stress for wagging tails and deep breaths. If you are looking for a feel-good, photo-ready NYC wellness activity that you will be talking about long after you roll up your mat, this is it.
