If you love yoga, puppies, or both, Raleigh's puppy yoga experience is one of the most joyful ways to spend a weekend. Picture this: 45 minutes of all-level flow yoga, followed by 30 minutes of cuddles, photos, and play with a pack of adorable puppies in a bright downtown studio. All you have to bring is yourself; the mat and good vibes are ready and waiting for you.
Located at 131 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601 on the ground floor, this pop-up style event has quickly become a favorite in the city, earning about 4.7 / 5 stars from 131 reviews. With mats provided, a wellness drink cart on site, and a beginner-friendly flow, it is designed to be as accessible as it is unforgettable.
What Is Puppy Yoga in Raleigh?
Puppy yoga combines a gentle yoga class with supervised puppy social time. During the session, you will move through accessible poses while puppies roam, explore, and sometimes curl up right beside your mat. After your flow, you transition into dedicated cuddle and photo time with the pups.
In Raleigh, each ticket gives you a full 75-minute experience in the downtown studio:
- 45-minute all-level flow yoga surrounded by playful puppies
- 30-minute supervised puppy chill time for cuddles, photos, and relaxed interaction
- Yoga mat provided for the session
- Wellness drink cart available so you can sip something refreshing before or after class
It is a unique blend of movement, mindfulness, and pure cuteness that leaves most guests walking out lighter, happier, and full of puppy stories.
The 75-Minute Class Format at a Glance
| Segment | Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome & Settle In | About 5–10 minutes | Arrive early, check in, sign waiver, roll out your mat, meet the team, get oriented. |
| All-Levels Flow Yoga | 45 minutes | Guided yoga class suitable for beginners and more experienced yogis, with puppies roaming the studio. |
| Puppy Chill Time | 30 minutes | Dedicated time for snuggles, photos, gentle play, and connection with the puppies under staff supervision. |
Beginner-Friendly, All-Levels Yoga
Raleigh puppy yoga is designed to be beginner-friendly. You do not need prior yoga experience or advanced flexibility. Instructors cue poses clearly and offer options so you can move at your own pace, whether you are a first-timer or a regular yogi.
Expect an all-level flow that focuses on:
- Gentle stretching to unwind tight muscles
- Simple standing and balancing poses you can modify as needed
- Calming breathwork to help you relax and reset
- Playful moments as puppies wander through the space
The energy is light and welcoming rather than intense or competitive. Guests often describe the session as equal parts movement, laughter, and heart-melting puppy moments.
Why Raleigh Loves Puppy Yoga: Benefits Beyond the Cuteness
The experience is fun and extremely photogenic, but there are deeper benefits that keep people coming back:
- Stress relief— Gentle movement plus time with animals can help ease tension and calm a busy mind.
- Mood boost— Puppies have a way of sparking joy, playfulness, and laughter in almost everyone.
- Mindful movement— The presence of puppies encourages you to stay present and enjoy the moment.
- Social connection— It is an easy way to meet other dog lovers and share a lighthearted experience together.
- Unique memories— From puppies napping on your mat to candid photos, you leave with stories you will talk about for weeks.
With an average rating around 4.7 out of 5 stars from 131 reviews, guests consistently highlight the friendly staff, approachable yoga, and the care shown for both humans and puppies. Many reviewers mention it as the highlight of their weekend, a great date idea, or the perfect way to coax a non-yogi partner into trying something new.
Meet the Puppies: Sourced From Local Breeders and Well Cared For
The puppies you meet in Raleigh puppy yoga are not random or unsupervised. They are carefully brought in through partnerships with local breeders within about an hour of each city.
- Age— Puppies are typically between 8 and 12 weeks old.
- Health— They are vaccinated before participating in classes.
- Litter structure— Each session includes roughly 6 to 12 puppies, and litters are not mixed for health and safety.
The class is also designed to be beneficial for the pups. Early, gentle exposure to different people and environments helps many puppies feel more socialized and confident before going home to their new families. Interactions are supervised, and staff members pay close attention to puppy energy levels, stepping in to give them breaks when they need to rest.
How Puppy Breeds Are Announced
Many guests love planning their visit around a certain breed. In Raleigh:
- Breeds are generally announced a few days before each weekend on social media and the booking page.
- Specific breeds are not guaranteed and may change at the last minute if needed for puppy wellbeing or logistics.
Whether it is a session full of tiny dachshunds, bouncy Australian shepherds, or fluffy retrievers, every weekend brings a fresh, irresistibly cute group of pups.
Location, Schedule, and Typical Pricing
Puppy yoga in Raleigh takes place in a convenient downtown studio:
- Address— 131 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601 (ground floor).
- Schedule— Classes generally run on weekends.
- Release of new dates— New sessions are usually released about two months in advance, giving you time to plan.
- Typical price— Tickets are usually priced around $69 per person for the full 75-minute experience.
Because spots often sell out, especially for popular breeds or prime time slots, many guests like to check new dates as soon as they are announced and book early.
What Your Ticket Includes
Each ticket to the Raleigh puppy yoga experience is designed to feel like a complete mini-retreat. Your purchase typically includes:
- 75 minutes in the studio with puppies and a guided yoga class
- 45 minutes of all-level yoga led by an instructor
- 30 minutes of supervised puppy chill time for snuggles, photos, and play
- Yoga mat for use during the session, so you can travel light
- Access to a wellness drink cart with refreshing options available for purchase
This streamlined format makes it a turn-key outing for birthdays, bachelorette weekends, date days, or simply treating yourself to something special.
Who Puppy Yoga in Raleigh Is Perfect For
Thanks to its welcoming structure and all-level approach, the Raleigh puppy yoga experience suits a wide range of people:
- First-time yogis who want a low-pressure, fun introduction to yoga.
- Dog lovers who cannot currently have a dog at home but want some puppy time.
- Couples looking for a playful, memorable date activity.
- Friends' days out or bachelorette groups seeking something unique and photo-ready.
- Busy professionals who need a mental reset and stress relief on the weekend.
- Families with older kids who want to share a special experience together.
If you love the idea of moving, laughing, and relaxing with a pack of puppies trotting around, you are exactly the kind of person this experience was created for.
How to Prepare for Your Raleigh Puppy Yoga Session
To make the most of your visit, a little prep goes a long way. Here is how to arrive ready and relaxed:
- Arrive 15 minutes early— This gives you time to check in, sign the waiver, choose your spot, and settle in before class starts.
- Know the late policy— Entry is not allowed more than 20 minutes after the session begins, to respect the flow of the class and minimize disruptions.
- Wear comfortable clothing— Opt for breathable, stretchy clothes you would normally wear to yoga or a workout.
- Leave the mat at home— A yoga mat is provided for you, so you can travel light.
- Consider minimal jewelry— Puppies are curious; limiting dangling items keeps things simple.
- Plan for photos— You are welcome to capture memories during puppy chill time, so make sure your phone is charged.
Most importantly, arrive with an open mind and a sense of play. Puppies are delightfully unpredictable, and that spontaneity is a big part of the fun.
Safety, Waivers, and Puppy Wellbeing
Because classes include live animals, there are a few important safety and wellbeing considerations to understand before you book.
Waivers and Participant Safety
- Waiver required— All participants must sign a waiver before joining the session. This acknowledges that you understand the nature of the activity and agree to participate responsibly.
- Minor risks— Interacting with puppies can involve small risks, such as light scratches or occasional nips. Staff members are present to help manage interactions, but puppies are still learning and exploring.
If you have specific concerns about allergies, skin sensitivities, or mobility, it is a good idea to consider those in advance and, if needed, talk with a healthcare professional.
Puppy Wellness Comes First
One of the core principles of the experience is that puppy wellness is the top priority. This means:
- Interactions are supervised by staff who understand puppy needs and behavior.
- Puppies are given breaks if they appear tired, overstimulated, or in need of rest.
- Guests are encouraged to be gentle and respectful, letting puppies come to them rather than forcing contact.
Because of this focus on wellbeing, interaction with the puppies cannot be guaranteed for every moment or every guest. Puppies may choose to nap, cuddle with certain people, or explore different areas of the room. This natural, puppy-led dynamic helps keep them happy and safe while still creating memorable moments for participants.
Booking Policies: Tickets, Transfers, Kids, and Pregnancy
Tickets, Refunds, and Transfers
Puppy yoga in Raleigh runs as a pop-up style event, which affects how tickets are handled:
- All sales are final— Tickets are generally non-refundable.
- Transfers allowed up to 3 days before— If your plans change, you have the option to change your class up to 3 days before the event, depending on availability and the specific policies at the time of booking.
Always review the details shown at checkout when you purchase, as they will reflect the most current terms for your specific session.
Children and Age Requirements
Puppy yoga can be a wonderful experience for families with older kids, but there are age guidelines in place:
- Minimum age— Children must be at least 10 years old to participate.
- Under 15— Minors under 15 years old may attend, but they must be accompanied by an adult in the class.
These guidelines ensure that everyone in the room can follow instructions, move safely on their mats, and interact gently with the puppies.
Pregnant Participants
Puppy yoga is generally light and low impact, but pregnancy always warrants extra care. If you are pregnant:
- It is strongly recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before attending.
- Discuss the 45-minute yoga portion and the presence of active puppies so your provider can advise you appropriately.
Your comfort and safety matter, and your healthcare provider is the best person to help you decide whether this particular activity is right for your situation.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Puppy Time
Want to walk away with incredible memories and photos from your Raleigh puppy yoga class? A few simple habits can elevate your experience:
- Let puppies lead— Allow them to approach you at their own pace; this often creates the sweetest interactions.
- Stay present during yoga— It can be tempting to play the entire time, but enjoying the 45-minute flow sets you up for deeper relaxation in puppy chill time.
- Use the cuddle time fully— After yoga ends, feel free to sit or lie down on your mat to be more accessible for snuggles and photos.
- Capture a few key photos, then unplug— Take your snapshots, then put the phone down for a bit to simply enjoy the moment.
- Be gentle and calm— Soft voices and relaxed movements help puppies feel safe and curious instead of overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raleigh Puppy Yoga
What exactly happens during the 75-minute class?
You will start with check-in and settling on your mat, then enjoy 45 minutes of all-level yoga while puppies are in the room. After that, there is 30 minutes of puppy chill time dedicated to cuddling, playing, and taking photos, all under the guidance of staff.
Where do the puppies come from?
Puppies are brought in through partnerships with local breeders around each city, typically within about an hour of Raleigh. They are 8 to 12 weeks old, vaccinated, and join the event as part of their socialization before going to their future homes. After classes, they return to their breeders.
How many puppies will be in my session?
Each session typically includes between 6 and 12 puppies. Exact numbers can vary depending on litter size and availability. For health and safety, litters are not mixed, so all puppies in the room are from the same litter.
When are new Raleigh dates released?
New puppy yoga dates are usually released about two months in advance. This makes it easier to plan for birthdays, special occasions, or just a weekend treat.
Can I get a refund if my plans change?
Because this is a pop-up style event, ticket sales are typically final and non-refundable. However, there is the option to change your class up to 3 days before the event, subject to the policy in place when you book.
Is interaction with the puppies guaranteed?
Puppy time is a central part of the experience, but specific interactions cannot be guaranteed. Puppies may choose to rest, stay close to certain areas, or interact more with some guests than others. Staff help encourage fair opportunities while still prioritizing each puppy's comfort and wellbeing.
Is this a good option if I have never done yoga before?
Yes. The Raleigh puppy yoga class is designed to be beginner-friendly with an all-level flow. Instructors offer cues and variations so you can move comfortably even if it is your very first class.
Turn Your Weekend Into a Puppy-Filled Mini Retreat
If you are looking for a fresh way to reset, celebrate, or simply brighten your weekend, puppy yoga in downtown Raleigh delivers a joyful mix of movement, mindfulness, and heartwarming puppy time. With a 75-minute guided experience, downtown studio location, mats provided, and a wellness drink cart on site, it is an easy, all-in-one outing you will be talking about long after the last downward dog.
Keep an eye out for newly released weekend dates on https://puppies-yoga.com/products/raleigh, choose a time that fits your schedule, and get ready for an uplifting session where yoga, relaxation, and puppies all come together in the heart of Raleigh.
