While no individual household experiences the consequences of the pandemic in the same way as another, one thing remains the same—an inevitable change in routine. If you’ve already been training your dog to adjust to fewer social opportunities and more time indoors, you might’ve come across dog yoga—or doga.
Doga is an enriching activity for longtime pet owners and those preparing to adopt a dog for the first time. If you are looking for a suitable activity to attempt with your canine companion this quarantine, consider the benefits of doga below.
Improved Physical Health
If social distancing measures limit your outdoor exercise opportunities, doga is an excellent way to stay in shape and improve strength. Coupled with a daily walk around the block or in the comfort of your garden, doga can help correct orthopedic issues and improve joint health.
Are you or your dog suffering from poor cardiovascular health? An hour of daily doga can improve your heart rate and circulation!
Reduced Stress
Spending hours unable to leave your home can prove severely damaging to your mental health. Because dogs are empathic, they can become sensitive to your stress.
By taking the time to immerse yourself in daily calming activity, you and your dog can experience reduced anxiety and stress.
Similarly, if your dog harbors unspent energy, doga makes for an ideal outlet that can help make them mentally calmer. Dogs with behavioral issues such as yapping or aggression will benefit significantly from an hour of Doga every day.
A Stronger Relationship Between Human & Dog
If you have trouble bonding with your newly adopted four-legged friend, Doga can increase feelings of connectedness and security. Engaging in poses that your dog would naturally conform to can establish trust between both parties.
Instead of coercing your dog into engaging in activities, you would enjoy, adjusting to their natural behavior can make your relationship flourish.
Social Opportunities
If you can safely attend a group doga class, you can easily incorporate social opportunities into your dog’s weekly routine. If they are inherently shy or slightly anxious, interacting with dogs in a similar setting allows your pet to hone their social skills.
Similarly, you can engage with like-minded owners and learn a thing or two from their daily routines. Alternatively, if you can’t attend an in-person class, virtual doga sessions can be just as enriching.
Pure Entertainment
As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine. While doga is proven to boost physical and mental health, an afternoon of fun can be just as rewarding.
Contrary to popular belief, dogs can grow tired of daily walks and monotonous games of fetch—so why not try something new?
The Bottom Line
In recent years, many pet owners have grown to become Doga fanatics—and for a good reason. Not only does doga provide daily entertainment for you and your dog, but it also boasts proven health benefits.
Before attempting doga, always consult with a veterinary professional and a healthcare provider. By doing so, you can make the most of this fulfilling activity.