Standup paddleboarding (SUP) is a fantastic water activity that can be made even more enjoyable by including your furry friend. Paddling with dogs not only adds fun and excitement to your adventures but also strengthens the bond between you and your loyal companion. However, when choosing a paddle board for your dog, there are several factors to consider, such as the size of your dog, their comfort level on the water, and their training. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore some of the best paddle boards available for dogs, highlighting their features and suitability for different dog sizes and temperaments. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect paddle board for you and your canine companion!
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Paddle Board for Dogs
Before we delve into the specific paddle board options, let’s discuss the key factors to consider when selecting the right board for paddling with your dog. These factors will help ensure the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of both you and your furry friend.
1. Size of Your Dog
The size of your dog plays a crucial role in determining the paddle board that will work best for you. Smaller dogs, such as Teacup Chihuahuas, can comfortably fit on any board, while larger breeds, like Newfoundlands, may require a more spacious board to accommodate their size. It’s important to consider your dog’s weight and ensure that the paddle board has a suitable weight capacity to support both of you.
2. Comfort on the Water
Not all dogs are natural water enthusiasts, so it’s essential to gauge your dog’s comfort level on the water. Some breeds have a natural affinity for swimming and will quickly adapt to paddleboarding, while others may need more time and reassurance. If your dog is less comfortable on the water, opt for a larger board with increased stability to provide a sense of security.
3. Training Level
The training level of your dog also affects the choice of paddle board. Well-trained dogs with basic obedience commands, such as “come,” “sit,” “down,” and “stay,” are easier to handle on a SUP. Dogs that are more independent may pose challenges on smaller boards and may benefit from the stability offered by larger boards.
4. Doggy Safety
Just like humans, dogs should also prioritize safety while paddleboarding. Invest in a properly-fitted personal flotation device (PFD) for your dog that features a heavy-duty handle on the top. This handle makes it easier to assist your dog back onto the paddle board after a swim.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore some of the best paddle boards available for dogs.
Best Paddle Boards for Dogs
In this section, we will introduce several paddle boards that have proven to be excellent choices for paddling with dogs. We have carefully selected these boards based on their weight capacity, stability, and dog-friendly features.
1. Gili Sports Komodo
- Dimensions: 10’6″ x 33″ x 6″
- Availability: US, International Shipping Available
The Gili Sports Komodo is a cruiser inflatable paddle board that offers a perfect blend of stability and performance for you and your pup. With its 33″ width and wide outline, it provides exceptional stability, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride. The full-length deck pad is a great feature for your dog, providing a soft and durable surface for them to grip onto the board.
The Gili Sports Komodo utilizes top-tier construction and carbon-fiber reinforced rails, resulting in an extremely rigid inflatable paddle board. This board is not only suitable for paddling with your dog, but it also excels as a general-purpose cruiser board and for yoga sessions on the water.
2. Sea Gods Skylla
- Dimensions: 11′ x 33″ x 6″
- Availability: US, Canada
The Sea Gods Skylla is a crossover all-around/touring board that offers excellent stability for you and your furry friend. With its 33″ width and wide outline, the Skylla provides a stable platform for paddling with your dog. While it doesn’t have a full-length deck pad, the pad extends far enough up the front of the board to accommodate medium-sized dogs comfortably.
The Skylla stands out from other boards on this list due to its speed and efficiency on the water. It offers a perfect balance between stability and performance, making it an ideal choice for longer adventures with your dog.
3. Isle Switch 2-in-1 iSUP
- Dimensions: 11’6″ x 35.5″ x 6″
- Availability: US
The Isle Switch 2-in-1 iSUP is a versatile option that allows you to paddle with larger dogs and even convert the board into a kayak for added stability. With its extra width and wide tail, the Switch offers exceptional stability, making it suitable for paddling with larger dogs. The full-length deck pad ensures a comfortable and secure grip for your furry friend.
The included kayak conversion kit, consisting of an inflatable kayak seat, foot brace, and kayak paddle, provides added stability when sitting while paddling. The wider board also allows your dog to move around freely without sacrificing stability.
4. Thurso Surf Max Multi-Purpose iSUP
- Dimensions: 11’6″ x 34″ x 6″
- Availability: US, Canada, UK, EU
The Thurso Surf Max Multi-Purpose iSUP is a versatile paddleboard primarily designed for fishing but also perfect for paddling with your dog. With its 11’6″ length and 34″ width, the Max offers ample volume and stability, accommodating dogs of various sizes. The carbon fiber reinforced rails ensure stiffness and performance even under the extra weight of a larger dog.
The full-length grooved deck pad provides excellent traction for your dog’s paws, allowing them to brace side-to-side comfortably. The two paddle holders and extra grab handles make it convenient to keep your fishing gear nearby and assist your dog back onto the board.
5. Nixy Venice G4
- Dimensions: 10’6″ x 34″ x 6″
- Availability: US, Canada
The Nixy Venice G4 is a lightweight paddleboard that offers stability and ample space for paddling with your dog. Thanks to advanced materials used in its construction, the Venice G4 is exceptionally lightweight and easy to transport. The 34″ width and wide tail provide stability, allowing your dog to find a comfortable position on the board.
The smaller front cargo area leaves plenty of uninterrupted space for your dog to relax as you paddle. The Nixy Venice G4 is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and stable paddleboard for their furry friends.
6. Bote Flood 11′ Full Trax
- Dimensions: 10’6″ x 34″ x 6″
- Availability: US
The Bote Flood 11′ Full Trax is an all-around inflatable paddleboard that offers excellent paddling performance and a full-length deck pad for your dog’s comfort. Despite being the narrowest board on this list at 32″ wide, the Flood provides exceptional stability due to its wide tail and nose, ensuring a secure ride for you and your dog.
The full-length deck pad offers a comfortable surface for both humans and canines, while the board’s versatile features, such as storage space and fishing rack mounts, make it a great choice for various water activities.
7. Gili Sports Manta Ray Multi Person
- Dimensions: 12′ x 45″ x 8″; 15′ x 56″ x 8″
- Availability: US, International Shipping Available
The Gili Sports Manta Ray is a multi-person paddleboard that can accommodate even the largest four-legged friends. With two size options, 12′ x 45″ and 15′ x 56″, both at 8″ thick, the Manta Ray offers ample space and weight capacity for multiple dogs or a mix of people and pups. The fully padded decks provide plenty of room for passengers and accessories.
Despite its size, the Manta Ray remains surprisingly stable, even when standing far to one side. This makes it an excellent choice for paddling with larger dogs or including the whole family in your water adventures.
8. Aqua Marina SuperTrip Tandem
- Dimensions: 14′ x 34″ x 6″
- Availability: Worldwide
The Aqua Marina SuperTrip Tandem is a super-sized paddle board that offers plenty of space for you and your dog without requiring a second person to help paddle. With its 14′ length and 34″ width, this board provides ample volume and stability, making it easy to paddle solo with your large dog.
Despite its size, the SuperTrip Tandem remains manageable for a solo paddler, although maneuverability may require some planning ahead. This board offers enough space and volume to comfortably accommodate your larger dog while enjoying your time on the water.
Training Tips for Paddling with Your Dog
Now that we have explored some of the best paddle boards for dogs, let’s discuss a few training tips to help you and your furry friend make the most of your paddleboarding adventures.
1. Start with Land Training
Before hitting the water, introduce your dog to the paddle board on land. Teach them where you want them to stand or sit on the board. This will help them familiarize themselves with the board and build confidence before venturing onto the water.
2. Gradually Increase Water Time
Begin with short outings in calm, easily accessible areas. Focus on basic commands such as getting on and off the board, sitting, and becoming comfortable with the paddle. Gradually increase the duration of your paddling sessions as your dog becomes more confident and comfortable.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward your dog with treats, praise, and affection for positive behavior and following commands. Positive reinforcement will help your dog associate paddleboarding with a fun and rewarding experience.
4. Invest in a Dog PFD
Ensure your dog’s safety by investing in a properly-fitted personal flotation device (PFD). A dog PFD not only keeps your pup afloat but also provides a sturdy handle to assist them back onto the board after swimming.
5. Never Leash Your Dog to the SUP
While it may seem like a good idea to leash your dog to the paddle board, it can be dangerous. If the board capsizes, the leash can tangle and trap your dog underwater. Remove the leash once you are on the water to ensure your dog’s safety.
Gear Recommendations for Paddling with Your Dog
To enhance your paddleboarding experience with your dog, consider the following gear recommendations:
- PFD (Personal Flotation Device) for Dogs: A properly-fitted dog PFD, such as the Ruffwear Float Coat, will keep your dog afloat and provide a handle for easy retrieval onto the paddle board.
- Dry Bag: Protect your belongings from water damage by using a dry bag. These bags come in various sizes and keep your essentials dry and secure while out on the water.
- Coolers: Keep your drinks cold and your catch fresh with a reliable cooler. Hard coolers can also double as a seat for taking a break from standing.
- Electric Pump: While hand pumps are great for warming up, an electric SUP pump can save you time and effort when inflating your board. Enjoy a hassle-free setup and focus on other preparations.
Conclusion
Paddleboarding with your dog can be a rewarding and memorable experience. By selecting the right paddle board and following training tips, you and your furry friend can enjoy countless hours of fun on the water. Remember to prioritize safety by using a dog PFD and never leashing your dog to the paddle board. With the best paddle board for your dog’s size and temperament, you can create lasting memories and strengthen your bond while exploring beautiful waterways together. So, grab your gear, hop on your paddle board, and embark on exciting adventures with your canine companion by your side!