Have you ever seen a dog on a paddleboard, tail wagging, face full of excitement, and thought, “I wish I could do that with my pup?” Well, you’re not alone. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) with pets is gaining popularity, and it’s no wonder why – it’s a fun, bonding experience that also offers great exercise for you and your furry friend. This blog post will guide you through the steps of paddleboarding with your dog in a lake, pond or lagoon, ensuring you both have an exciting and safe adventure.
Step 1: Introduction to Paddleboarding
Before you take your dog out on the water, it’s crucial that you become comfortable with paddleboarding yourself. Learning how to balance, steer, and handle the board will help you maintain control when you add a wriggling, excited dog to the mix.
Step 2: Choose the Right Gear
When choosing a paddleboard, consider the size of your dog. Larger dogs will need a board with more surface area. Inflatable paddleboards can be a good choice as they are often wider and more stable.
Don’t forget about safety gear. A life jacket is essential for both you and your dog. Choose a dog life jacket with a handle on top, which you can use to help your dog back onto the board if they decide to take a swim.
Step 3: Familiarize Your Dog with the Paddleboard
Before hitting the water, let your dog get used to the paddleboard on dry land. Encourage them to hop on and off the board and reward them with treats for doing so.
Step 4: Start in Calm, Shallow Water
For your first few outings, choose calm, shallow water. Stand in the water next to the board and help your dog onto it. Stay close to shore and keep outings short until both you and your dog feel comfortable.
Step 5: Teach Commands
Teaching your dog commands like “on,” “off,” “sit,” and “stay” can be very helpful when paddleboarding. Remember to always reward good behavior with praise and treats.
Step 6: Enjoy the Ride!
Once both you and your dog are comfortable, it’s time to venture out a bit further and enjoy the ride. Always keep an eye on your dog to ensure they’re safe and having fun.
Here’s a video of a dog named Olive enjoying his first paddleboarding adventure on a quiet lake:
And don’t forget to take photos of your SUP adventures! Here’s a gallery of our readers’ dogs having a blast on their paddleboards:
Photo Gallery
Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Take your time, be patient, and most importantly, have fun.
Paddleboarding with your dog can be a fantastic way to bond and enjoy nature together.
The 5 Best Stand-Up Paddle Boards for Dog-Loving Adventurers
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is an exciting outdoor activity that offers an excellent way to bond with your furry friend while enjoying the serenity of open waters. However, not all paddleboards are created equal, especially when it comes to accommodating our canine companions. Here are the top 5 stand-up paddleboards that are perfect for dog owners.
- Blackfin Model XL
The Blackfin Model XL is touted as the best overall SUP for dogs. Its generous dimensions and weight capacity make it ideal for larger breeds. The 35” width provides excellent stability, ensuring a comfortable ride for both you and your pet. - Sea Gods Skylla
Recognized as the best lightweight SUP for dogs, the Sea Gods Skylla offers a perfect blend of durability, stability, and portability. Its unique design and lightweight construction make it easy to navigate, even with your furry friend on board. - iROCKER Cruiser Ultra 2.0
The iROCKER Cruiser Ultra 2.0 stands out for its compact design, making it ideal for small to medium-sized dogs. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on stability, ensuring a safe and enjoyable paddleboarding experience. - THURSO SURF Max
Described as the ‘SUV of paddleboards’, the THURSO SURF Max can hold a lot of weight and offers plenty of space for your dog to move around comfortably. Its additional features like handles and action mounts add to its appeal. - POP Paddleboards Yacht Hopper
The POP Paddleboards Yacht Hopper is not just functional but aesthetically pleasing as well. This board features a sleek wood-grain design and offers ample space for larger dogs.
When choosing the right paddleboard, consider the size and temperament of your dog, as well as your skill level. A larger, more stable board is ideal for beginners or those with large dogs.
Remember to always prioritize safety – ensure both you and your pet wear life jackets, and never tether your dog to the board.
Whether you’re an experienced paddleboarder or just starting out, these top-rated SUPs offer something for every dog lover.
So why wait? Embark on a paddleboarding adventure with your furry friend today!
The Ultimate Guide: The 5 Best Life Vests for Dogs to Wear While Riding Stand-Up Paddleboards
Taking your furry friend on a paddleboarding adventure is an excellent way to bond while enjoying the great outdoors. However, ensuring their safety is paramount. One of the best ways to protect your pup while on the water is by equipping them with a high-quality life vest. Here, we will explore the five best life vests suitable for dogs to wear while paddleboarding.
- Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket
The Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket is known for its top-notch buoyancy and durability. It features adjustable straps and a front float to help keep your dog’s head above water.
- Ruffwear – K-9 Float Coat for Dogs
With its strong, durable construction and easy-to-adjust telescoping neck closure, the Ruffwear – K-9 Float Coat for Dogs is another excellent choice. It also includes a reflective trim for enhanced visibility.
- Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket
The Vivaglory New Sports Style Ripstop Dog Life Jacket stands out with its sporty design and superior buoyancy. It comes in various sizes and bright colors for added visibility.
- EzyDog Doggy Flotation Device Dog Life Vest Jacket (DFD)
The EzyDog Doggy Flotation Device Dog Life Vest Jacket (DFD) is designed with a unique, ultra-buoyant foam that keeps dogs in a natural swimming position. Its adjustable neoprene straps ensure a secure fit.
- Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket
The Paws Aboard Dog Life Jacket not only provides excellent buoyancy but also features a breathable mesh underbelly for proper draining and drying. This helps prevent chafing and irritations.
Dog owners who have used these vests rave about their quality and the peace of mind they provide. One user noted, “The Outward Hound life jacket is a game-changer. Now I can enjoy paddleboarding with my dog without constantly worrying about his safety.”
You can purchase these life vests from various online retailers like Amazon, Chewy, and PetSmart. Training your dog to wear a life vest involves positive reinforcement – reward them with treats and praises when they wear it without fuss.
Remember, while a life vest is a critical safety measure, it’s essential to never tether your dog to the paddleboard. Also, always supervise your pet while on the water.
With the right life vest, paddleboarding can be a safe and fun activity for your dog. So, strap on that vest and get ready for some tail-wagging adventures!
Louie Montan
Meet Louie Montan, the dog-loving, beer-drinking, travel-writing extraordinaire behind Great White Website Services. As a full-time blogger, Louie’s passion for all things canine shines through in every post he creates. But don’t let that fool you, this creative mind is also well-versed in the art of travel and knows how to appreciate a good glass of cold beer with friends. When he’s not busy exploring new destinations or tasting different brews, you can find him jamming out to some tunes or indulging in his love for good food. And of course, no writing session is complete without his best friend, Sage by his side, providing invaluable insights and snuggles as Louie crafts his witty and engaging content from the comfort of his home office.
