If you spend a lot of time in the water, it’s only natural to want to bring your best friend: your dog. Dogs can tag along with you on all kinds of outdoor adventures, even during watersports like paddle boarding and kayaking. But which is the best choice when it comes to your canine companion?
Stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) are usually better for dogs than kayaks, as they are easier to jump on and off. They’re more challenging to use than kayaks, but your dog will have much more room to spread out.
Below, I’ll outline the difference between kayaks and paddle boards, then explain why paddle boards are generally better for users who want to bring their furry friends on their outdoor adventure. So, let’s talk about it!
What’s the Difference Between a Paddle Board and a Kayak?
Most people are familiar with kayaks, but paddle boarding is a little less common among casual paddlers. Kayaks and paddle boards both use bladed paddles to propel you forward, but you can tell the difference between them just by looking at them:
A kayak looks like a little boat, with a deck and cockpit where you and your pup will sit. Kayaks are more stable and, therefore, a bit easier to use.
A paddle board looks more like a surfboard. It’s a long, flat, sturdy board. You can sit, kneel, or stand on a paddleboard. This simple design means the user needs greater control and balance to avoid tipping over.
Why Paddle Boards Are Usually Better for Dogs
Even though kayaks are easier to use, using a paddle board will almost always lead to a better, less stressful experience for your dog. If you’ve never used one of these fantastic watercraft before, here are a few good reasons to jump onto a SUP with your pup:
Larger Dogs Are Unrestricted
Kayaks can fit some smaller breeds, but larger dogs like labs and shepherds won’t fit in them so well. That’s a shame since breeds that love to swim are on the larger side.
Since a SUP has a much simpler design, they have a greater surface area, and your larger dog will have room to spread out. Alternatively, you could fit two small or medium-sized dogs out with you.
Dogs Can Hop in and Out of the Water Easily
Some dogs love to swim just as much as people! However, if your dog jumps off a kayak, the boat-like structure will make it more challenging for your dog to get back on with you.
Paddle boards are wide and flat, and most dogs won’t have much trouble pulling themselves back up after a dip in the water.
Leads to a Greater Bonding Experience
Studies like this one in the National Center for Biotechnology Information suggest that training your dog is just one way to help develop a positive bond. Since paddle boards are a little less stable than kayaks, your dog must learn to stay put and balanced on the board while you paddle.
Working to train your dog on a stand-up paddle board will help him feel closer to you and even help you understand how your dog learns and communicates.
Challenges of Paddle Boarding With a Dog
Even though paddle boards have several advantages over kayaks when it comes to taking dogs out on the water, you should be aware that SUPs will present unique challenges to you and your pup. Don’t take your dog out for a paddle board ride before considering the following:
- Paddleboards are more likely to tip over, especially if you have an anxious dog.
- They can become slick, which could cause your dog to fall off in rough water.
- Some paddle boards are inflatable and might be popped by an untrimmed claw.
- You will get tired faster on a paddleboard. Fatigue can sneak up on you, and if you run out of energy far from shore, you and your pup could be in danger.
When Is a Kayak Better Than a Paddle Board?
In certain situations, you might have an easier time with your dog in a kayak than in a SUP.
For instance, skittish dogs might prefer a kayak, where they can stick close to you and are unlikely to fall in accidentally. Also, if you don’t have much experience using either a paddle board or a kayak, then it’s probably better to start your dog on a kayak.
Did you know that kayaking is a great way to keep dogs active? Learn how in my full guide. [XX Ways to Keep Your Dog Active in the Summer]
How To Keep Your Dog Safe on a Paddle Board
Even experienced paddle boarders might be nervous about bringing their dog onto the water. You can do a few things to ensure that a SUP is not only great fun for your dog but also perfectly safe.
- Buy a doggy life vest. Using a floatation device is essential when taking your dog out on the water. If you’re unsure where to find one, this ASENKU Dog Life Jacket (available on Amazon.com) comes in multiple sizes and colors.
- Try paddle boarding by yourself before adding your dog to the mix. Make sure you’re confident on the board, standing and sitting, before bringing your pup out.
- Get a sturdy paddleboard that will easily support both of your weights. Try to avoid inflatable boards. Also, slip-proof material will make it much easier for dogs to stay put.
- Train your dog to stay on the SUP on dry land before transitioning to the water. Not sure how to train a dog to remain on a paddle board? This video offers some helpful tips:
Above all, be patient with yourself and your puppy! Just like people, dogs need practice before gaining confidence in the water.
Final Thoughts
Paddle boards are usually better for dogs regarding their comfort and safety. Big dogs that might not fit on a kayak will fit on a SUP, and dogs that love swimming can jump on and off to their heart’s content. Even if you’ve taken your dog out on a kayak before, have him give a stand-up paddleboard a try!