• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Wellness
  • Yoga
  • Beauty
  • GirlBossing
  • Lifestyle
  • Travel
  • About Me
  • Contact
  • Shop

Headstands and Heels

  • Wellness
  • Yoga
  • Beauty
  • GirlBossing
  • Lifestyle
  • Travel
  • About Me
  • Contact
  • Shop
IN: Yoga

How To Practice Yoga With Your Dog

December 6, 2016 By Melanie 2 Comments

yoga-with-dogs-11

If you’re a dog owner and have ever practiced yoga at home, you may have experienced the pure joy and curiosity your dog exudes whenever you’re practicing your asana. My dog Nina, a spunky little Dachshund and Jack Russell Terrier mix, starts wagging her tail uncontrollably the second my mat hits the floor. Maybe it’s because I’m spending time on her “level” or perhaps she secretly finds it amusing to watch me twist myself into various positions. Either way – yoga time is playtime in her mind and you can guarantee that if I’m on my mat, so is she.

I rescued Nina a little over 3 years ago, right around the same time that I started practicing yoga, so she became very acclimated to my daily sessions. For awhile, I just let her bounce on and off my mat – licking my face, pushing me over, and dropping her ball down in front of me at every opportune moment. One day I thought to myself, how would she react if I genuinely included her in my practice?

No, I didn’t train my dog to do yoga poses on her own. Instead, I seized each time on my mat as an opportunity to further bond with her by incorporating her into various yoga poses that I was already doing.

There were definitely a few hiccups a long the way (like that one time I almost fell on her while in headstand – sorry, Nina!) but over time it has become a great way to establish trust and to get more in tune with how my dog is feeling. I learned the dos and don’ts pretty quickly and now enjoy a lovely doga practice with Nina at least once a week.

If you’re looking to start practicing yoga with your dog, here are a few basic poses to get you started! Please keep in mind that Nina weighs about 16 pounds so the following poses are meant for a dog of similar or smaller size.

Boat Pose 

yoga-with-dogs yoga-with-dogs-3

This is one of Nina’s favorites and is something that we can stay in for at least a full 60 seconds.

Place your dog on your lap with their head facing you. Bring their front paws up so they rest on your shoulders or chest. Slowly lean back while bringing your knees up. Engage your core and control your breath. Encourage your dog by talking sweetly and maybe even waving your hands above them so they have something to look at.

Knees To Chest Pose

yoga-with-dogs-knees-to-chest-pose yoga-with-dogs-nina

This pose will test your dog’s balance. The key is to keep very still and encourage your dog to lie down on your legs.

While lying on your back, pick up your dog and place them on your chest. From there slowly bring your knees towards your head and gently pick up your dog and let them settle on your shins, facing you. Keep your hands on their sides until your dog is comfortable and balanced. Stay here for 10 full breaths and then release your legs slowly down.

Easy Pose

yoga dogyoga-with-dogs-9

If your pup is a lap dog they’ll love this yoga pose. I usually do this at the beginning or end of my practice and stay in it for as long as Nina allows.

Find a comfortable seated position with your legs crossed in front of you. No need to do full lotus, but if it’s in your practice feel free. Encourage your dog to come sit on your lap and just spend a few minutes giving them a nice petting session. With any luck they’ll doze right off.

yoga with your dog

Now that you’re ready to start doing yoga with your dog, keep in mind that it may take a few tries before your pup feels comfortable in these postures. I recommend keeping treats on hand; encourage them and know when enough is enough. Dogs are like little babies – it’s important to read their body language and know when you should probably just play fetch with them instead of forcing them to balance on your legs. 😉  As you can see, Nina was eyeing one of her fav toys and after this shot took the opportunity to pounce on it.

If you snap any photos trying yoga with your dog (or cat) please tag me! I love seeing pics of people bonding with their fur babies.

Namaste,

hahandlips-cutout-small

Filed Under: Yoga

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Caitlin says

    December 7, 2016 at 1:27 pm

    This is the cutest thing I’ve seen in a long time! <3

    Reply
  2. Flo @ Yoga, Wine & Travel says

    December 8, 2016 at 3:18 am

    This is too cute Melanie! My pups are super curious when they see me practicing yoga – love that you’ve found a way to incorporate them into your practice!

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Meet Melanie

Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com

Connect

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

Find Me on Instagram


Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡

Here a
Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 

Here are a few of my #fallfavorites from the archives featuring lots of leaf peeping, spooky treats, and fun moments with family and friends.

#lifelately #autumnarchives #fallgirl #cozygirlfall #cozyseason #babiesfirstfall #romanticizelife #simplejoys #newmomlife #fallphotodump


Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ri
Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ride & Haunted Happy Hour I hosted for my @denverfitfriends community this past weekend! 👻 🎶 

The gals showed up in costume and @ritual_indoorcycling led us through such a fun 45 min ride with all the best spooky vibes 🖤 

A big thank you to our vendors @alythactive, @truvani and @drinkparch for making this an extra special experience! 

I have one last DenFit event planned for November to wrap up the year so if you’re in the Denver area stay tuned for details coming sooooon ✨☺️

#denverfitfriends #denfit #denverfitnesscommunity #denverfitness #dayinmylife #halloweenevent #wellnessgirl

“When we are together darling, every night is Ha
“When we are together darling, every night is Halloween.” 🖤

Lily was invited to her first Halloween party yesterday so we obviously had to dress up as one of the most iconic, creepy + kooky families ever! And I know I’m so biased but I don’t think I’ve seen a cuter Wednesday Addams 🥹

Such a fun way to celebrate spooky season (and a pretty easy family costume if you’re in need of something last minute!) 

But what do you guys think? Is it creepy or cute? 👇🏼

#addamsfamily #familyhalloweencostumes #halloweenparty #wednesdayaddams #familyhalloween #theaddamsfamily #babiesfirsthalloween

Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series
Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series where I’ll share some of my favorite things each month that can help you slow down and savor the season

I have so many things I want to chat with you all about and can’t wait to dive into more of these! You can expect lots of cozy hobby ideas, self care tips, book recommendations, gift guides, fitness/wellness favs, recipes I’m loving, and more — just let me know if you have any requests! 

I’m kicking things off with 3 of my favorite fall crafts that I’ve been loving for both solo cozy nights in or for hosting friends ✨. You can find tutorials and video examples of all three in my recent reels

I hope you guys enjoy our cozy chat 💬 

#cozyhobbies #cozycrafts #fallgirl #selfcaretips #comfortcreator #wellbeing #wellnessjourney #softwellness #hobbiesareimportant #romanticizeyourlife #cozycorner #joyfulliving

You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but
You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but in this season of life, cozy evening rituals have been everything for me ✨💕

If you’re looking for quick and simple ways to add a little more hygge into your evenings, these are some of my personal favorites to: 

Restore your Body
✨just a few minutes of intentional movement or nourishing self care can help your body relax, unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep 

Clear your Mind
✨ stop the scroll and opt for more positive ways to reduce the mental clutter. Taking a few minutes to reflect and reset your thoughts can help you fall asleep with a clear mind 

Soothe your Soul
✨the quiet moments of the evening provide the perfect opportunity to choose activities that make you happy. Whether it’s reading a book, trying a new cozy hobby or even as simple as stepping outside to look at the moon & stars… choose to end your day with warmth and ease 

If you’d like to receive my free printable Autumn Reflections guided journal, just comment JOURNAL and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. It’s the perfect thing to add to your cozy evening (or morning) routine 🧡

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #cozyseason #joyfulliving #happyandhealthy #hygge #intentionalliving #cozyrituals #healthyliving

Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple
Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple latte is the new “it girl” of fall drinks! 🍁 All you need are 4 ingredients to whip this up at home 

Recipe:

✨ 1-2 tsp Trader Joe’s maple butter 
✨ pinch of salt
✨ 2 shots espresso 
✨ milk of choice 

Let me know if you’ll be trying this! 🧡 

#fallvibes #fallgirl #fallrecipe #coffeeathome #morningsips #coffeemorning #maplelatte #softgirlera #comfortcreator #cozyseason #cozyathome #pinterestaesthetıc #cozyvibesonly

What would you add to this list? 💕✨

#romanti
What would you add to this list? 💕✨

#romanticizeyourlife #lifeisbeautiful #iamwellandgood #positivemindset #wellbeing #mindfulness #intentionalliving #happyandhealthy


This autumn leaf bookmark is still one of my favor
This autumn leaf bookmark is still one of my favorite cozy fall crafts! It’s so cute and simple to make — perfect for a crafternoon with the girls or as a bookclub activity 📖🧡🍁

Just comment “bookmark” and I’ll send you everything you need to make this yourself! Or send this to someone you want to have a cozy craft day with ☺️

#fallvibes #fallcrafts #cozyhobbies #cozyseason #hobbiesareselfcare #romanticizeyourlife #fallgirl #craftinspo #girlswhoread #bookstagram

#JUSTINSbrandpartner 🍁 Send this to someone you
#JUSTINSbrandpartner 🍁 Send this to someone you want to have a snack-filled cozy, outdoor movie night with! 

You all know how much I love hosting and this snack station is sooo perfect for an outdoor movie date night or girl’s craft + movie night with friends! I loaded up the table with popcorn, apple cinnamon muffins, apple cider and justin’s NEW Peanut Caramel Nougat Chocolate Mini Candy Bars

JUSTIN’S® Peanut Caramel Nougat Chocolate Candy Bars are USDA-certified organic, gluten-free do not contain stevia or sugar alcohols– and most importantly, they taste amazing! They come in both 1.4oz single-size bars or the mini-size bars that you see here! 

Be sure to stock up on these for your next cozy Fall gathering or Halloween party! 🎃 

#autumnvibes #fallgirl #autumnparty #cozygathering #cozysnacks #outdoormovie #movienightathome #fallhardwithjustins #JUSTINScandybars

Hocus Pocus + pumpkin painting may just be the mos
Hocus Pocus + pumpkin painting may just be the most wholesome girl’s night in combo 🧡

Wait till the end to see how our lil pumpkins turned out and send this to someone you want to do this with! 

#romanticizeyourlife #cozyseason #outdoormovienight #fallvibes #fallactivities #cozycrafts #girlsnightin

✨Cozy season = hosting season✨ and I’ve got
✨Cozy season = hosting season✨ and I’ve got you covered with 5 super cozy, creative & cute fall gatherings to bring your friends or family together! 

Trust me when I say you’ll want to save this for later or send to a friend who you want to do one of these with! 🎃

🧡PUMPKINS & PSLS: combine cozy home cafe vibes with an autumnal crafternoon 

🧡COOKBOOK CLUB POTLUCK: pick a cozy, seasonal themed cookbook and have all your friends pick a dish to make, bring & share! 

🧡 GILMORE GIRLS NIGHT IN: set up a spread from “Luke’s Diner” and spend an evening watching some of the best fall episodes (I’ve listed a ton in my Autumn watch list post) 

🧡SPIRITS & SPELLS SOIRÉE: get your coven together for a witchy cocktail party complete with dark candlelight and potion inspired sips 

🧡 MYSTERY BOOK CLUB: pick a fall friendly mystery, serve mulled wine and get together to discuss all the plot twists and theories 

Let me know if you’ll be hosting any of these and if you want to see a similar roundup for the holiday season in November!

#fallgirl #autumnparty #hostingideas #girlsnightideas #fallparty #cozyseason #cozyvibes #fall2025

The sweetest apple picking adventure to celebrate
The sweetest apple picking adventure to celebrate Lily’s first time in the northeast 🍎💕

#autumnvibes #fallactivities #applepicking #fallgirl #autumnaesthetic #falltrip #pinterestaesthetic


Popular Posts

Currently Pinning

  • This is your sign to paint a pumpkin this year and turn it into a fun girls night activity!
  • From pumpkins to moody autumn collages—these cute Halloween wallpapers double as fall tech background picks you’ll want on rotation. Grab your favorites for free now.  If collages or other mood-setting backgrounds aren’t enough to inspire your fall bucket list, you might need it spelled out right in front of you. This fall to-do list will do just that. And unlike most to-do lists, every task on this one is actually fun.
  • Pan-Fried Sticky Garlic Tofu with Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts – recipestasteful
  • Celebrate fall flavors with this spicy cheddar apple veggie sandwich – the ultimate autumn sandwich combining crisp apples, melted spicy cheddar, and hearty veggies. It’s perfect for lunch, light dinner, or a cozy picnic. 🍂🥪  Pin now & assemble one today! Click for full sandwich recipe, flavor tips & grilling options.
  • One of the showiest tricks that takes next to no effort is “gift-wrapping” your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors with wide satin ribbon. In a cozy apartment, it’s a sweet way to turn everyday storage into holiday cheer without adding clutter.

Currently Pinning

  • This is your sign to paint a pumpkin this year and turn it into a fun girls night activity!
  • From pumpkins to moody autumn collages—these cute Halloween wallpapers double as fall tech background picks you’ll want on rotation. Grab your favorites for free now.  If collages or other mood-setting backgrounds aren’t enough to inspire your fall bucket list, you might need it spelled out right in front of you. This fall to-do list will do just that. And unlike most to-do lists, every task on this one is actually fun.
  • Pan-Fried Sticky Garlic Tofu with Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts – recipestasteful
  • Celebrate fall flavors with this spicy cheddar apple veggie sandwich – the ultimate autumn sandwich combining crisp apples, melted spicy cheddar, and hearty veggies. It’s perfect for lunch, light dinner, or a cozy picnic. 🍂🥪  Pin now & assemble one today! Click for full sandwich recipe, flavor tips & grilling options.

Sign up for my Newsletter 💌

Footer Widget Header

Subscribe

Join Me!

Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 Here a Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 

Here are a few of my #fallfavorites from the archives featuring lots of leaf peeping, spooky treats, and fun moments with family and friends.

#lifelately #autumnarchives #fallgirl #cozygirlfall #cozyseason #babiesfirstfall #romanticizelife #simplejoys #newmomlife #fallphotodump
Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ri Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ride & Haunted Happy Hour I hosted for my @denverfitfriends community this past weekend! 👻 🎶 

The gals showed up in costume and @ritual_indoorcycling led us through such a fun 45 min ride with all the best spooky vibes 🖤 

A big thank you to our vendors @alythactive, @truvani and @drinkparch for making this an extra special experience! 

I have one last DenFit event planned for November to wrap up the year so if you’re in the Denver area stay tuned for details coming sooooon ✨☺️

#denverfitfriends #denfit #denverfitnesscommunity #denverfitness #dayinmylife #halloweenevent #wellnessgirl
“When we are together darling, every night is Ha “When we are together darling, every night is Halloween.” 🖤

Lily was invited to her first Halloween party yesterday so we obviously had to dress up as one of the most iconic, creepy + kooky families ever! And I know I’m so biased but I don’t think I’ve seen a cuter Wednesday Addams 🥹

Such a fun way to celebrate spooky season (and a pretty easy family costume if you’re in need of something last minute!) 

But what do you guys think? Is it creepy or cute? 👇🏼

#addamsfamily #familyhalloweencostumes #halloweenparty #wednesdayaddams #familyhalloween #theaddamsfamily #babiesfirsthalloween
Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series where I’ll share some of my favorite things each month that can help you slow down and savor the season

I have so many things I want to chat with you all about and can’t wait to dive into more of these! You can expect lots of cozy hobby ideas, self care tips, book recommendations, gift guides, fitness/wellness favs, recipes I’m loving, and more — just let me know if you have any requests! 

I’m kicking things off with 3 of my favorite fall crafts that I’ve been loving for both solo cozy nights in or for hosting friends ✨. You can find tutorials and video examples of all three in my recent reels

I hope you guys enjoy our cozy chat 💬 

#cozyhobbies #cozycrafts #fallgirl #selfcaretips #comfortcreator #wellbeing #wellnessjourney #softwellness #hobbiesareimportant #romanticizeyourlife #cozycorner #joyfulliving
You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but in this season of life, cozy evening rituals have been everything for me ✨💕

If you’re looking for quick and simple ways to add a little more hygge into your evenings, these are some of my personal favorites to: 

Restore your Body
✨just a few minutes of intentional movement or nourishing self care can help your body relax, unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep 

Clear your Mind
✨ stop the scroll and opt for more positive ways to reduce the mental clutter. Taking a few minutes to reflect and reset your thoughts can help you fall asleep with a clear mind 

Soothe your Soul
✨the quiet moments of the evening provide the perfect opportunity to choose activities that make you happy. Whether it’s reading a book, trying a new cozy hobby or even as simple as stepping outside to look at the moon & stars… choose to end your day with warmth and ease 

If you’d like to receive my free printable Autumn Reflections guided journal, just comment JOURNAL and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. It’s the perfect thing to add to your cozy evening (or morning) routine 🧡

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #cozyseason #joyfulliving #happyandhealthy #hygge #intentionalliving #cozyrituals #healthyliving
Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple latte is the new “it girl” of fall drinks! 🍁 All you need are 4 ingredients to whip this up at home 

Recipe:

✨ 1-2 tsp Trader Joe’s maple butter 
✨ pinch of salt
✨ 2 shots espresso 
✨ milk of choice 

Let me know if you’ll be trying this! 🧡 

#fallvibes #fallgirl #fallrecipe #coffeeathome #morningsips #coffeemorning #maplelatte #softgirlera #comfortcreator #cozyseason #cozyathome #pinterestaesthetıc #cozyvibesonly
What would you add to this list? 💕✨ #romanti What would you add to this list? 💕✨

#romanticizeyourlife #lifeisbeautiful #iamwellandgood #positivemindset #wellbeing #mindfulness #intentionalliving #happyandhealthy
This autumn leaf bookmark is still one of my favor This autumn leaf bookmark is still one of my favorite cozy fall crafts! It’s so cute and simple to make — perfect for a crafternoon with the girls or as a bookclub activity 📖🧡🍁

Just comment “bookmark” and I’ll send you everything you need to make this yourself! Or send this to someone you want to have a cozy craft day with ☺️

#fallvibes #fallcrafts #cozyhobbies #cozyseason #hobbiesareselfcare #romanticizeyourlife #fallgirl #craftinspo #girlswhoread #bookstagram
#JUSTINSbrandpartner 🍁 Send this to someone you #JUSTINSbrandpartner 🍁 Send this to someone you want to have a snack-filled cozy, outdoor movie night with! 

You all know how much I love hosting and this snack station is sooo perfect for an outdoor movie date night or girl’s craft + movie night with friends! I loaded up the table with popcorn, apple cinnamon muffins, apple cider and justin’s NEW Peanut Caramel Nougat Chocolate Mini Candy Bars

JUSTIN’S® Peanut Caramel Nougat Chocolate Candy Bars are USDA-certified organic, gluten-free do not contain stevia or sugar alcohols– and most importantly, they taste amazing! They come in both 1.4oz single-size bars or the mini-size bars that you see here! 

Be sure to stock up on these for your next cozy Fall gathering or Halloween party! 🎃 

#autumnvibes #fallgirl #autumnparty #cozygathering #cozysnacks #outdoormovie #movienightathome #fallhardwithjustins #JUSTINScandybars
Hocus Pocus + pumpkin painting may just be the mos Hocus Pocus + pumpkin painting may just be the most wholesome girl’s night in combo 🧡

Wait till the end to see how our lil pumpkins turned out and send this to someone you want to do this with! 

#romanticizeyourlife #cozyseason #outdoormovienight #fallvibes #fallactivities #cozycrafts #girlsnightin
✨Cozy season = hosting season✨ and I’ve got ✨Cozy season = hosting season✨ and I’ve got you covered with 5 super cozy, creative & cute fall gatherings to bring your friends or family together! 

Trust me when I say you’ll want to save this for later or send to a friend who you want to do one of these with! 🎃

🧡PUMPKINS & PSLS: combine cozy home cafe vibes with an autumnal crafternoon 

🧡COOKBOOK CLUB POTLUCK: pick a cozy, seasonal themed cookbook and have all your friends pick a dish to make, bring & share! 

🧡 GILMORE GIRLS NIGHT IN: set up a spread from “Luke’s Diner” and spend an evening watching some of the best fall episodes (I’ve listed a ton in my Autumn watch list post) 

🧡SPIRITS & SPELLS SOIRÉE: get your coven together for a witchy cocktail party complete with dark candlelight and potion inspired sips 

🧡 MYSTERY BOOK CLUB: pick a fall friendly mystery, serve mulled wine and get together to discuss all the plot twists and theories 

Let me know if you’ll be hosting any of these and if you want to see a similar roundup for the holiday season in November!

#fallgirl #autumnparty #hostingideas #girlsnightideas #fallparty #cozyseason #cozyvibes #fall2025
The sweetest apple picking adventure to celebrate The sweetest apple picking adventure to celebrate Lily’s first time in the northeast 🍎💕

#autumnvibes #fallactivities #applepicking #fallgirl #autumnaesthetic #falltrip #pinterestaesthetic
Follow me on Instagram

Copyright © 2025 · Headstands & Heels · Blog Design by Little Blue Deer
Privacy Policy