Introduction to Puppy Therapy
Downward dog just got a whole new meaning. At Puppy Sphere, New York yogis swap silence and stillness for snuggles and slobbery kisses, as wagging tails and wet noses weave between their mats mid-flow.
But don’t mistake this feel-good fitness class for just a cute photo op. Puppy Sphere offers yoga classes at four locations across New York City. (Pictured: New York Post’s Paige Kahn) Paige Kahn/NY Post
What is Puppy Therapy
“There’s something truly special about combining mindful movement with the unconditional love of puppies,” said Francesca Albo and Lea Burbidge-Izquierdo, co-founders of Puppy Sphere, creators of the original puppy yoga experience. “Yoga helps calm your mind and release stress, but adding puppies takes that sense of joy and connection to a whole new level,” they added.
Benefits of Puppy Therapy
And it’s not just fluff. Research shows that yoga delivers a wide range of mental and physical benefits, from boosting strength, balance and flexibility to reducing stress and anxiety. Burbidge-Izquierdo has experienced the perks firsthand. “After losing my sister to suicide, I went through one of the darkest periods of my life,” she said. “I wasn’t much of a yogi before that, but I started attending classes as a way to ground myself and I quickly noticed how much calmer and lighter I felt after each practice.”
The Healing Power of Puppies
Albo found similar healing from a furry friend. Guests are invited to interact with puppies throughout class. McKenzie Beard/NY Post
After the yoga flow, there’s time for free play and photos. McKenzie Beard/NY Post
“I went through a really dark period of depression before I brought home my puppy, Hershey,” she said. “I was working in a toxic corporate job, and getting a dog felt like a quick mental health fix. He did so much more than that. He truly saved me!”
Science Behind Puppy Therapy
Studies have found that interacting with animals can trigger the release of serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones that help boost mood and reduce anxiety. Research also links human-animal connection to better physical health, including lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels — all key factors in reducing cardiovascular risk.
The Concept of Puppy Sphere
Inspired by their own healing journeys, Albo and Burbidge-Izquierdo launched Puppy Sphere to blend the mental health benefits of movement with the joys of animal interaction. Each Puppy Sphere class showcases a different dog breed. Paige Kahn/NY Post
The result? A one-of-a-kind wellness experience that appeals to seasoned yogis and first-timers alike.
Experience at Puppy Sphere
“People walk in tense or tired, and within minutes, they’re smiling, laughing, and completely in the moment,” Burbidge-Izquierdo and Albo said. “It’s not just about exercise — it’s about presence, play and human-animal connection.” Since its launch in 2021, Puppy Sphere has expanded rapidly, opening more than 20 locations across the US and Canada, including four in New York City.
A-listers like Sabrina Carpenter have helped popularize the wellness trend. Instagram/@thepuppysphere
Class Structure
Each session begins with a 45-minute flow led by a certified instructor while a litter of energetic puppies roam the studio. Staff make sure the dogs are well-behaved — and well-shared — so everyone gets a chance to connect with the comforting critters. After class, participants can unwind with 30 minutes of free time with the dogs while sipping complimentary green juice, sparkling water or apple cider.
Participant Feedback
“I always walk out of a good yoga class like this feeling pretty calm and high spirited,” attendee Charlotte Beisel told The Post. “Then you throw in puppies and you leave feeling so elated.” Other students described feeling “stretched,” “powerful” and, of course, “silly.” “I got a big serotonin boost,” said attendee Julia Kim. “It was great — and even more fun than regular yoga.”
Conclusion
And the puppies benefit too, getting valuable socialization before heading off to their forever homes. “At the end of the day, everyone needs a little puppy love, or as we like to call it, puppy therapy,” Burbidge-Izquierdo and Albo said. “No matter who you are, puppies have a way of making you slow down, smile and feel good. And honestly, they don’t care if you’re a yoga pro or can’t touch your toes — as long as you give them kisses and belly rubs, they think you’re perfect.”
FAQs
Q: What is Puppy Sphere?
A: Puppy Sphere is a wellness company that offers yoga classes with puppies.
Q: What are the benefits of puppy therapy?
A: Puppy therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety, boost mood, and improve physical health.
Q: How do I sign up for a Puppy Sphere class?
A: You can sign up for a Puppy Sphere class on their website or by visiting one of their locations.
Q: Are the puppies well-behaved during class?
A: Yes, the puppies are well-behaved and well-shared during class, so everyone gets a chance to connect with them.
Q: Can I bring my own puppy to class?
A: No, only puppies provided by Puppy Sphere are allowed in class.
