Yoga sessions for dogs help beloved pets match owners’ healthy lifestyles

YOGA sessions are helping dogs, like Boston pictured with owner Mikala James, match their owners’ active lifestyles and avoid the growing problem of overweight dogs.

THE ritual morning stretch most dogs enjoy is becoming more formal with doggie yoga sessions.

Mikala James, 31, of St Kilda, enjoys an active, healthy lifestyle and wants her German short-haired pointer cross Boston, 3, to keep up with her own fitness regimen.

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“I like yoga because I find it relaxing and I really love the stretching element,” Ms James said.

“Boston is one of those dogs who has his own morning routine and, even though he still acts like a puppy, nibbling my ears when I’m doing yoga, he’s trying to join in.

“He’s a big dog, weighing 35kg, but he loves getting out and about.”

Mikala James performs yoga and meditation with her dog Boston in the park. Picture: David Caird

With more than 40 per cent of our dogs being overweight or obese, the Real Food movement has expanded to include dogs with a website, dogcheck.com.au, aimed specifically at helping dog owners learn how to help their dogs lose weight and increase wellbeing.

One of those tips is to exercise with your dog and even do yoga together.

Public Doggy Yoga sessions are also planned to be held in Melbourne later this year.

Mikala James performs yoga and meditation with her dog Boston in the park. Picture: David Caird