Can I Paddle Board with a Dog
A dog has long been considered man’s best friend, so it’s natural to want to include your dog in some of the activities that you are passionate about. Paddle boarding (SUP) provides an activity that you can share with your pet. Most dogs really enjoy swimming and being around the water, so they will appreciate riding SUP with you.
Can I take a dog on a paddle board? Yes, paddle boards are equipped to handle a dog. Just ensure that you are following your paddle boards weight guidelines and have the proper SUP accessories for your dog. Let’s check out how to ensure a safe experience and steps to getting out on your SUP with your dog.
Water Safety with your Dog
First off, you want your canine friend to be safe throughout your SUP adventure.
Some dogs respond really well to water, for others it takes a bit of getting used to.
Riding on a SUP will be a brand new experience for your dog, so you want to do everything you can to make sure it will be safe.
Here are a few safety tips to consider when being out on the water with your dog:
Can your dog swim?
Some dogs are more naturally inclined to take to the water.
If your dog has never demonstrated the ability to swim, than going out on a SUP isn’t the best idea, until you can determine if your dog can handle the water.
Take your dog on a swim outing before you go on your first paddle board ride.
Throw a ball or stick in shallow water to see how your dog handles it.
If your dog is comfortable swimming in shallow water, test your dog with going a little further out.
Don’t use Force
Never just shove your dog into the water or use force to get your dog into the water.
Doing this will just freak your dog out and make them not want to go into the water in the future.
Allow your dog to warm up to the idea of getting in and use positive praise to let your dog know its fun.
Limit your time
Some shorter hair dogs can actually sunburn.
If they have visible pink skin, which is more common for white haired dogs, it’s more susceptible to burn.
I’d recommend when you go out on a hot day with your dog, go for shorter durations of time.
Bring Water
If you are planning to use your SUP in salt water, make sure your dog has fresh water to drink.
If your dog drinks excessive salt water, it can cause them to not feel well and diarrhea.
Getting too much salt water in the ears can cause infection and salt can cause discomfort to your dog’s paws.
Weight of the Dog
Ask yourself, Can I handle the weight of my dog if I needed to get them back on the board?
It feels like even more weight when your dog is in the water, so you want to consider this if you had to rescue your dog.
Life Jacket
Not only do life jackets save human lives, but dogs as well.
Purchase a good life vest for your dog that will ensure safety if something were to happen.
You want something that will ensure your dogs head stays above water.
Here are a couple good options.
Check Surroundings
Visually check the area you will be riding with your dog.
Be aware of potentially harmful marine life like jellyfish.
Look for potential objects sticking out of the water like rocks, tree limbs, or coral that could be potentially damaging.
Good Health
Your dog should be in good physical health to be out on the water.
A dog that hasn’t been getting regular exercise, could get injured or have difficulties swimming in the water.
Riding on your SUP with your Dog
Now that you’ve ensured proper water safety for your dog, it’s time to talk about the ride experience. There are a few things to consider:
- Be experienced enough of a rider on your own to be able to maneuver your paddle board and balance well.
- Build up to the paddle board ride. Get in the water with your dog and play around to help your dog feel at ease. Your dog needs to be able to have a comfort level and trust you before trying this new experience.
- Have your dog try the paddle board out before going on it in the water. Encourage your dog to sit or lay on the board using positive treat reinforcements.
- Start in shallow water. Pull your dog along in shallow water to get a feel for how your dog is responding.
- Sit with your dog and paddle around while your dog is near you.
- Now that your dog is at ease and enjoying the experience, you can stand up and paddle away.
Accessories to Utilize When Paddle Boarding with a Dog
There are some things to consider when purchasing your paddle board and equipment to help create a pleasant experience for riding with your dog.
Get a dog pad
You can read my article here on the importance of a SUP traction pad.
Getting a specialized pad for your dog will limit any potential damage that could occur from your dogs nail.
It will also create a comfortable spot on the board for your dog.
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Shopping for a Board
A narrow paddle board is going to make it challenging to carry a dog on it.
Find a wider SUP if you want to have room for your dog.
When it comes to buying an inflatable or hard surface board for riding with your dog, either one will work.
I use an inflatable by Merax that I recommend. It holds up to 300lbs.
With a good traction pad it will help prevent any possible damage a dog may inflict on the board.
Storage
A cooler or storage pouch will help to make sure you have plenty of treats for your dog.
A collapsible dog bowl will make it much easier for your dog to drink.
In closing, Bonding with your pet can be great for your mental health and well-being.
By following some of the precautions outlined, riding on your SUP with your dog can be a very rewarding experience.
Please comment below on anything you enjoyed from this post or your stories of SUP with your dog.