Doga, the latest craze for Zen-seeking dog lovers, is a bonding experience, not an obedience class, says Leta Koontz, certified yoga instructor. Dogs are natural yogis, living in the moment, always looking for the next nibble.

I'm wondering how many treats it will take to get my gregarious lab in a downward dog?

The Schoolhouse Yoga instructor is bringing dog yoga to Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, for three sessions on March 14, April 11 and May 9th. Classes will begin with human and canine stretching and strengthening exercises and move into doggie massage and meditation. No prior doga or yoga experience is required, but you may want to bring a mat, towel, leash and lots of treats.

"It's about trying to teach your dog something new while keeping it fun and lighthearted," says Koontz who believes that you can't underestimate the benefits of doga to dogs. "It's actually good for them. It's not like they're reaching nirvana or becoming enlightened, but they are more mellow after the class than when they started. What's going on in their minds, we can't say."

Koontz, a certified yoga instructor for more than 10 years, uses the techniques when she walks her dogs. "As I step, I'm either breathing in or out with my step. This grew out of wanting to do my practice and engaging with my dogs in some way."

All proceeds from Doga will benefit Animal Friends. The suggested donation for a single session is $20 and all three sessions $50. Early arrival is suggested to give the dogs time to sniff out the class and settle in.