Are you wondering how to paddle board with your dog? Paddling with your furry friend is an enriching experience, and a few tricks and tips should get you going.
The good news is that most dogs can join a paddle board ride. Some with more ease than others, but as long as they feel safe, they’ll have a good time. Although smaller breeds are easier to paddle with, we’ve seen 100-pound dogs happily taking on this new adventure.
Your friend doesn’t necessarily have to like water or swimming. Some enjoy the simplicity of watching the scenery, comfortably seated on your paddle board deck.
To give him/her the adequate amount of space and stability, selecting the right board is essential. In this article, we’ve also explained the step by step procedure to SUP with your dog.
Choosing the Right Board
Keeping a good balance on a SUP—or stand up paddle board—can be a difficult task. Add your dog to the equation, and the challenge gets tougher.
Selecting the right SUP should make your paddling life smoother. Generally speaking, the more stable your board is, the better. What makes the most stable and dog-friendly boards?
The Right Size
Choose a large board, both in length and width. We suggest SUPs with a minimum width of 32 inches and a minimum length of 10 feet.
This will give both of you enough space to move. Wider SUPs are also generally more stable and should allow you to bring more gear.
Thickness and Weight Capacity
Thicker boards are normally more steady. We recommend selecting one with the maximum thickness of 6 inches. These boards are usually utilized for SUP yoga, where balance is put to the test.
Weight capacity can sometimes be undervalued, yet is crucial when paddling with a guest. The advantage of thicker boards is their ability to carry more weight than slimmer ones.
Don’t forget that weight capacity should include both your weight and your dog’s weight as well as your gear. If your SUP carries more weight than it can handle, your board will tend to sink, which will scare most dogs. It will also be very tough to paddle and move forward.
Inflatable Boards
Inflatable boards are usually designed for beginners and intermediate level paddlers. For this reason, they’re steadier than other types. Today, expandable SUPs are made of sturdy PVC material, so they can withstand most shocks and even dogs’ nails.
Inflatable boards offer a good grip for both of you. Slipping accounts for 20 percent of all paddle board injuries, so it can be safer to use an air-filled board.
Keep in mind, however, that expandable boats typically have a lower weight capacity than traditional boards. It’s important to check all SUP specifications and find the right balance.
Deck Pad
If your SUP doesn’t come with a deck pad, we suggest adding one. Not only will it protect your board from scratches, but it will give you and your friend a better surface grip. If you’re not looking to invest in a pad, an old bath mat with proper suction cups will work.
In all cases, it’s best to trim your pup’s nails before the first trip. This should benefit you, your board finishing, and your deck pad.
Establish Trust by Showing the Example
If paddle boarding is new to your dog, it shouldn’t be your first adventure. Make sure that you’re comfortable paddling on your own before taking your dog with you.
You need to establish trust between you and your new SUP partner. Showing confidence with your board should entice your furry friend to do the same.
Dry Land Training
Training should start at home and be progressive. Ensure that your dog understands and follows basic commands, such as ‘stay’ or ‘sit’.
Introduce Your SUP
Place your board inside your dog’s favorite room. Leave it for a week until they get familiar with it. Your friend will have all the needed time to explore and sniff it.
Try on the Lifejacket
Even when your SUP partner can swim, a personal flotation device—or PFD—should be worn at all times. You’ll find models suitable for dogs of all sizes. Selecting one that perfectly properly fits them is essential.
If it’s too tight, it can be uncomfortable and even irritating to wear. Too large and it may slip off while submerged. Choose a PFD with a built-in handle to easily pull your dog out of the water.
Your furry friend will likely assimilate paddle boarding to the life jacket. If it’s painful to wear, he/she will probably pass on that ride.
Getting on and off the Board
Using treats, hand movements, and basic commands, train your dog when to jump on and off the board. This is vital if you don’t want them to jump at every fish passing by.
It often takes a few trials and errors, but after a few times, they should get the hang of it.
Last Practice
Before heading to the water, sit, then stand on the board behind your dog. This will teach them how to share the board and work with the available space. Your pooch should also feel safer knowing you’re right behind.
Lastly, try a few rocking motions. Although it will be very different from the water, the movements will give him/her a taste of what’s coming.
Time to Jump In
Once your friend feels secure at home, it’s time to move to the real SUP environment.
Teach Your Dog How to Swim
Take your time to build up your friend’s familiarity with water. Some dogs are more natural swimmers than others – such as dog breeds with strong retrieving instincts. Don’t force your dog into the water – initial trauma can cause detrimental effects against growing interest. Go for a swim from the shore or throw a ball farther into water little by little. Your furry friend should soon realize that it’s both safe and fun.
Start With Calm Waters
We don’t recommend getting started in the ocean. Lakes and flat waters are safer, more stable, and therefore preferable. Start in shallow waters, close to the shore where your dog will feel secure.
Start in a Seated Position
Sit or kneel on your board to keep it more stable. You might want to take your dog between your knees at first. This will help them gain confidence while feeling safe.
Repeat the dry land training. Make sure your dog understands when to jump on and off of the board. This is where treats can come in handy.
Be patient, if your dog is insecure or scared, bring them back to a comfortable environment. Still seated, start paddling.
Gradually, your dog will get used to the paddle movement—lifting it and getting it across the SUP. Only when he/she is entirely at ease, slowly stand up.
Side to Side Rocking Movements
A step further, it’s important to teach your dog the notion of balance. With your legs, press on the board to gently rock the SUP. Your friend might get surprised or nervous at first, but should be reassured as you show control over the board.
If you’re wondering how far stand up paddle board with your dog can go, check out this video:
A Few More Tips
Here are a few more tricks to enjoy paddle boarding with your dog.
Handling Energetic Dogs
If your dog can’t stay put, take them for a run or a long swim beforehand. Getting your friend tired before a SUP excursion should make your trip more relaxed and quieter.
When Facing Danger, Kneel or Sit
When facing a hazard, sit or kneel on your board. A hazard can be anything from someone swimming nearby, getting close to a deck, or when a boat is around. Doing so will send a message to your dog to stay still and should keep your SUP more balanced.
Don’t Use a Leash
A leash can represent a safety hazard when paddling with a dog. In the water, your friend could get entangled and lose orientation. When properly trained, a leash shouldn’t be needed to keep them around.
Rinse Your Dog
As soon as you get home, rinse your SUP partner with clear water in a bathtub or your yard using a hose. Washing your dog off should prevent skin and paw irritation caused by saltwater and sand. To avoid infections, don’t forget to clean the ears.
Important Doggy Gear
Lastly, here is a checklist of items to bring along:
- Treats.
- Your dog’s PFD.
- Water and your dog’s drinking cup.
- Sunscreen for both of you.
- Dry bag.
- Towels to protect your car seats from wet fur.
Short and Sweet
Once you bring your best friend on a paddle board ride, it may never be the same without them. Each dog is different. Some may warm up to the idea of paddle boarding immediately, while others may take multiple sessions. For some dogs, water is just not their cup of tea – all we can try is to create a fun environment by taking time and space.
The most important rule is to introduce this activity gradually. Be patient and never force a nervous or apprehensive dog. When your furry friend sees how much fun you’re having, they’ll likely want to join the party!