By Team Ayurved Sutra
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‘Overwhelmed and Distressed’: Petition Calls to Ban Puppy Yoga Events
A Coventry-based dog trainer has launched a petition urging the UK government to ban puppy cuddle and puppy yoga events, citing serious animal welfare concerns.
Nicky Brunt, who has more than 20 years of experience, argues that such events expose young puppies to overwhelming environments during a critical stage of development. Her campaign has already gathered over 1,100–1,400 signatures, though 100,000 are required for parliamentary debate.
“People picking them up and cuddling them… sounds like a really nice cute thing, but it’s over exposing them to stimulus,” Brunt said.
Concerns Over Stress and Development
Brunt and supporting organisations, including RSPCA and Dogs Trust, warn that these sessions may negatively impact puppies’ emotional and behavioural development.
According to Brunt, sessions can last several hours, during which puppies may not get adequate rest, food, or water.
“Puppies are not having their basic needs… met, which can cause them to have chronic stress,” she explained.
She added that young dogs, often around eight weeks old, may struggle to cope with being handled repeatedly by strangers in busy environments, potentially leading to long-term behavioural issues.
Animal welfare experts echoed these concerns, noting that early-life experiences shape a puppy’s future behaviour. They argue that socialisation should be gradual, controlled, and allow puppies to retreat when overwhelmed—conditions that may not be met in group events.
Lack of Specific Regulation
One of the key concerns raised is the absence of clear, specific regulations governing puppy cuddle or yoga events in England.
The RSPCA has called for stricter licensing requirements, while Dogs Trust has gone further, advocating for a complete ban.
The issue has gained international attention, with puppy yoga classes recently banned in Italy due to similar welfare concerns.
Local authorities, including Coventry City Council, have stated that event organisers are responsible for securing appropriate licences, and any breeders involved must also be properly licensed by their respective local authorities.
Organisers Defend Events
Event organisers and some breeders have rejected claims that puppy cuddle sessions harm animals, insisting that such interactions can be beneficial when conducted responsibly.
Bethan Lee, who runs Pooch Therapy, said her events follow strict guidelines designed to prioritise animal welfare.
“We have very strict rules… the ratio between dogs and puppies is right… they are told how to handle the puppies,” she said.
Lee added that participants are monitored closely, and puppies are given time to rest, play, and interact in controlled environments.
Socialisation vs Welfare Debate
Supporters argue that such events can aid early socialisation, particularly before puppies are fully vaccinated and able to go outdoors.
Licensed breeder Sophie Mortimer said the sessions can help build confidence in young dogs.
“Their confidence has just literally gone through the roof… these puppy events have really brought them on leaps and bounds.”
However, critics maintain that true socialisation should involve gradual exposure to everyday environments rather than repeated handling by large groups of unfamiliar people.
Growing Popularity and Scrutiny
Puppy cuddle and yoga sessions have surged in popularity in recent years, often marketed as therapeutic experiences that help reduce stress, anxiety, and even fear of dogs. Universities and wellness groups have also hosted such events.
Despite their appeal, the growing trend has sparked increasing scrutiny from animal welfare groups and policymakers, particularly over the conditions in which puppies are kept and handled.
