Catching Waves with Your Canine: The Top 5 Surfboards for Dogs
Surfing isn’t just a human sport anymore – dogs are hitting the waves with their owners all around the world! If you’re an avid surfer and a dog lover, it’s time to combine your two passions. But before you do, you’ll need the right gear. Here’s our review of the top five surfboards for dogs available on the market.
Benefits of Surfing with Your Dog
Aside from the pure joy of sharing a hobby with your furry friend, surfing can provide excellent exercise for dogs. It helps improve balance and coordination, builds strength, and can even help with behavioral issues by burning off excess energy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bond!
What Makes a Good Dog Surfboard?
When choosing a surfboard for your dog, consider the following:
- Stability: Look for a board that’s wide and long enough to provide stability.
- Durability: A strong, durable board will withstand the extra weight and movement of a dog.
- Non-slip surface: To help your dog maintain their footing, choose a board with a non-slip deck.
Now, let’s dive into our top picks!
- Pup Deck SUP Traction Pad for Dogs
Features: This isn’t a surfboard itself, but an addition to your existing board. The Pup Deck is a soft, grippy pad that sticks to your surfboard, providing a non-slip surface for your dog.
Pros: Easy to install, fits most boards, provides excellent grip. Cons: Doesn’t provide additional buoyancy or stability.
- South Bay Board Co. Soft Top Surfboard
Features: At 7 feet long, this board is stable and buoyant enough for both you and your dog. It features a non-slip foam top and comes with a leash.
Pros: Durable, stable, includes a leash. Cons: May be too large for smaller dogs or beginners.
- CBC Foam Surf Board
Features: This 8 foot long foam board provides excellent stability. It also includes a leash and traction pad.
Pros: Stable, includes a leash and traction pad. Cons: Less durable than some other options.
- Wavestorm 8ft Classic Surfboard
Features: This board is made of soft foam for comfort and grip. It’s 8 feet long and includes a leash and traction pad.
Pros: Comfortable, includes a leash and traction pad. Cons: Not as durable as hard boards.
- Liquid Shredder FSE EPS/PE Soft Surf Board
Features: This 6-foot board is lightweight yet durable and includes a non-slip deck.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, non-slip deck. Cons: May be less stable for larger dogs.
Tips for Surfing with Your Dog
• Start Slow: Get your dog used to the board on dry land before moving to the water.
• Safety First: Always use a dog life vest and keep an eye on your pup at all times.
• Positive Vibes: Make the experience fun and rewarding for your dog.
Surfing with your dog can be a unique and exciting adventure. With the right surfboard and a little patience, you’ll be riding the waves together in no time!
comes with a slick, water-resistant bottom and a padded leash.
Pros: Good for larger dogs, includes a leash. Cons: Might be too big for smaller dogs or young puppies.
- Liquid Shredder Softboard
Features: This board comes in various sizes, offering options for different dog breeds. It’s made from soft foam and has a non-slip deck.
Pros: Variety of sizes, durable construction. Cons: Higher price point.
- Wavestorm Classic Pinline Surfboard
Features: At 8 feet long, the Wavestorm offers great stability and a soft foam construction. It also features a traction pad and comes with a leash.
Pros: Stable and buoyant, includes a traction pad and leash. Cons: May not be suitable for very small dogs.
Extra Tips for Dog Surfing
• Always prioritize safety: Ensure your dog wears a life vest and is never left unattended in the water.
• Start slow: Let your dog get used to the surfboard on dry land first before you venture into the water.
• Keep it fun: If your dog isn’t enjoying themselves, don’t force them. The goal is to have a great time together!
In conclusion, surfing can be a fantastic activity to enjoy with your dog. With the right gear, training, and safety measures, you and your furry friend will be catching waves in no time!
Happy surfing!
The Top 5 Life Jackets for Surf-loving Dogs
As a pet parent, nothing beats the joy of sharing your favorite activities with your furry friend. If you’re a surfing enthusiast, you might have wondered if your pooch could join you in catching waves. Well, with the right safety precautions, they absolutely can! One essential piece of gear for your surf-loving dog is a life jacket. Here’s why.
Why Do Dogs Need Life Jackets for Surfing?
While many dogs are natural swimmers, surfing introduces new challenges like rough waters, strong currents, and fatigue. A life jacket keeps your dog buoyant, helps them swim efficiently, and most importantly, it can be a lifesaver in case of an accident12.
Now that we’ve established the importance of dog life jackets, let’s dive into our top five picks.
- Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket
Features: This life jacket comes with dual rescue handles, belly buckles & chest straps to ensure a secure fit, and reflective piping for better visibility.
Pros: High visibility, secure fit, multiple sizes. Cons: May not suit very small or large dogs. Price: $29.99 – $49.99 Where to Buy: Outward Hound’s website and major pet stores.
- EzyDog Doggy Flotation Device
Features: Made with heavy-duty polyester, adjustable neoprene straps, and featuring a buoyant and durable design.
Pros: Durable, adjustable, good flotation. Cons: Higher price point. Price: $65.00 – $77.00 Where to Buy: EzyDog’s website and major pet stores.
- Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat
Features: This life jacket features a strong, low-profile handle, reflective trim for visibility, and closed-cell foam panels for buoyancy.
Pros: Great buoyancy, high visibility, strong handle. Cons: May not fit very small dogs. Price: $79.95 Where to Buy: Ruffwear’s website and major pet stores.
- Kurgo Surf n’ Turf Dog Life Jacket
Features: This jacket doubles as a life vest and raincoat, has two handles for lifting, and includes a bottle opener for the humans!
Pros: Versatile, great for large dogs. Cons: Heavier than other models. Price: $59.99 – $89.99 Where to Buy: Kurgo’s website and major pet stores3.
- Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket
Features: Offers a breathable mesh underbelly, adjustable straps, and a strong grab handle.
Pros: Breathable, adjustable, budget-friendly. Cons: Less buoyant than others. Price: $20.99 – $40.99 Where to Buy: Paws Aboard’s website and major pet stores.
In conclusion, equipping your dog with a life jacket is a crucial safety measure for surfing. The right life jacket should be comfortable, secure, and highly visible. We hope our top picks help you find the perfect fit for your furry friend. Stay safe and happy surfing!
Footnotes
- Why Do Dogs Need Life Jackets? ↩
- The Importance of Life Jackets for Dogs: Keeping Your Pup Safe in the Water ↩
- Surf N Turf Dog Life Jacket ↩
