Doga - Yoga for Dogs of course

Who says Yoga is just for humans? Why should we two-legged creatures reap all the benefits of mindful meditation and renewed energy when our four-legged friends are forced to rely on chasing Frisbees and an afternoon nap?

Well take heart. Now there is Doga! It’s more than just a handy convergence of Dog and Yoga; it’s a slick 21^st century twist on a revered ancient practice. I may sound cynical, but who am I to question innovation? - especially successful innovation.

Doga is, in fact, sweeping the globe; filling the void for guilty dog owners who spend too much time at work or at the gym or with the kids and fail to provide adequate bonding behavior with their canine companions. Doga is also supposed to be great for dogs that are activity or socially challenged, or for those who need to find their inner puppy.

Grab your precious pooch and head for the nearest Doga studio where, for only dollars a day, your dog can learn just about everything you’ve been trying to teach him the old fashioned way…such as

- How become more disciplined

- How to enjoy non-destructive exercise

- How to get those old bones moving again

- How to learn patience and wisdom (to a degree)

and of course,

- How to get a lot of attention

Doga classes are made up of masters and pets (currently dogs) and an instructor trained in Doga. Although Doga training schools are non-existent, many Doga instructors have become pseudo-certified just by watching training videos and learning a few clever tricks; heartening proof that the health care job market is a shoe-in for anyone with a big heart in this struggling economy.

The nice thing about Doga is that you don’t have to buy any special equipment. Dogs are not required to wear appropriate Yoga clothing or use a mat; although the dog in the first photo demonstrates that that’s a lot of advertising rubbish just meant to draw you in. Although Yoga gear is not essential, I do recommend bringing a pooper-scooper to class. Yoga promotes smooth movements and Fido may get the wrong idea.

According to Doga practitioners who were interviewed in the New York Times and CNN, dogs love Doga as they receive the undivided attention of their owners. Just look at these photos.

Here’s one poodle that’s been placed on a powerful pedestal. She looks just a tiny bit apprehensive but I’m sure she feels the energy of her master’s third Chakra, which is sure to improve her digestion, not to mention her balance. Great for strengthening your core muscles, especially when practiced with dogs over 50 pounds.

Yoga students (the human variety) often use dense foam blocks for support and stability, but blocks are cold and lifeless. Animals make much better Yoga blocks; in fact, animals in general make for excellent cushions. I can’t help but recall Helena Bonham Carter’s trumpet-like command in the movie “Alice in Wonderland”. "I need a pig here!”…”I love a warm pig belly on my aching feet."

Pigs for footrests, dogs for Yoga blocks. The possibilities are endless.

Doga is not all about passive practice for pooches. It wouldn’t be called Doga is there weren’t at least a few stretching and strengthening asanas (poses) offered to the dogs.

Here’s the kingdancer position, although you really should lift the opposite leg as well to get the full benefit of the asana. (see photo).

Some canines need gentle prodding, bending and the occasional treat, but as any good yoga instructor will tell you, “modify for your level of practice”.

I don’t know which guru invented this wheelbarrow pose, but then again, Doga instruction is not an art requiring certification.

Other asanas come more naturally to canines, like Downward Facing Dog. The name speaks for itself.

Place the soul of your right foot against your inner left leg and move smoothly into your tree position. Breathe. If you’re really bonding with Bonzo, don’t be surprised if he doesn’t lift his leg too, as this powerful asana enhances ones focus and relieves stress.  No doubt it will move you both to a new level of consciousness.

If you can’t cough up the big bucks to attend Doga classes, why not try it at home? There are a few good books and videos I've described below, to guide you and your dog through several exercises that will not doubt prove to be mutually rewarding. Who knows, maybe your doggie will be able to do these new tricks.

A word of caution: Yoga is great for increasing sexual libido so don’t be surprised if your dog starts reaping the benefits as well.

Proverbial Disclaimer: Doga is a natural for dogs and their owners; however, as recommended in all my health related Hubs, consult with your doctor (or veterinarian) before beginning any new exercise program.

So there you have it. Enjoy your Doga practice. Namaste. And may you and your four-legged companions find enlightenment.

© Copyright Green Lotus, 2011. All rights reserved.