Puppy Yoga Classes Have Faced Global Scrutiny
While some shelters use sessions to boost adoptions, others face accusations of animal mistreatment.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Dogs
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Would you participate in a puppy yoga class knowing there are concerns about animal welfare?
Puppy yoga classes have become a global trend, sparking debate between those using the sessions for animal socialization and welfare groups alleging mistreatment. The practice, where participants interact with roaming puppies during yoga, has prompted varying regulatory responses worldwide.
Why it matters
The practice serves as a dual-purpose tool, providing entertainment for participants while helping shelters socialize animals for adoption. However, organizations like PETA have raised concerns that commercial operators may prioritize profit over animal well-being, leading to stricter oversight in some regions.
A Bali-based shelter housing 500 rescued dogs has operated puppy yoga classes for two years. Commercial breeders have also adopted the model to generate income.
The players
PETA
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is a global nonprofit organization that focuses on animal rights and opposes the mistreatment of animals in commercial settings.
The details
In these sessions, shelter staff bring rescue puppies to hotel yoga classes where they play or sleep among participants. While intended to facilitate socialization and adoption, PETA alleges that some commercial operations involving puppies result in the neglect and mistreatment of the animals.
Timeline
Italy banned all puppy yoga classes in 2024.
The shelter in Bali began its puppy yoga program approximately two years ago in September 2024.
Culture Shift
The 2024 Italian ban on puppy yoga signals a move toward stricter animal protection laws globally. This trend highlights the growing tension between commercializing animal interactions and prioritizing the welfare of rescue animals.
If you attend a session, research the organizer to ensure the puppies are rescue animals rather than from commercial breeders. Checking the legitimacy of the program can help you avoid supporting businesses that potentially mistreat young dogs for profit.
The takeaway
When choosing to participate in animal-assisted wellness, prioritize programs that work directly with reputable local rescues. Transparency regarding the animal's origin is essential to ensuring your participation supports rescue efforts rather than exploitative commercial practices.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving standards of animal care, visit the Dogs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Star.
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Would you participate in a puppy yoga class knowing there are concerns about animal welfare?
