I can safely bet that your Instagram and TikTok feeds are filled with people paddleboarding on glassy lakes, and some with their furry friends on board.
At the time of publishing this post, Instagram posts for #supwithdogs had more than 11 K followers, and new posts were popping up every day.
So, what’s the attraction? For one, standup paddle boarding (SUP) is an exercise that’s kind to both of you.
You get to engage your physique and develop balance. Your furry friend works their muscles just by standing on the board.
Besides the health benefits, paddle board with dogs is an opportunity to connect with nature, without boundaries.
Ask anyone who paddleboards with their dog, and they will tell you how the activity relieves stress and clears the mental being of both them and their canine co-pilots.
Dog paddle boarding is not as straightforward as putting your water dog on a board and wishing for luck as you sail through the waters.
In this tutorial on the ultimate paddle boarding with your dog guide, we will take you from the basics to near pro levels.
Continue reading to find researched information on safety essentials, best dog-friendly gear, and some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Is Paddle Boarding a Good Fit for Your Dog?
Before piling your pup onto a board, it is worth taking a moment to consider whether these summer dog activities are well-suited to your dog’s temperament and health.
First, make sure to consider the personality of your dog. Confident, relaxed, and curious dogs generally get accustomed to standup paddle boards.
Such dogs are unlikely to get jolted by moving surfaces, water splashes, or new surroundings.
Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Standard Poodles, for example, often love water activities because they were bred for them.
In contrast, certain terriers, brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs, and extremely anxious dogs might experience paddle boarding as stressful, overwhelming, or physically unpleasant.
Not that it means they can’t do it, it simply might need more patience, accommodation, and safety precautions.
In addition to temperament, your pet’s physical well-being is also an important consideration when paddleboarding with dog.
Older dogs or those with arthritis or hip dysplasia might have trouble balancing. Standing or re-arranging position for long periods might exacerbate pain in joints.
Having such a dog on paddle board is still possible in short intervals, but it’s always best to consult your vet, particularly if they are recovering from an injury.
Fitness also comes into play on a paddle surf. Overweight dogs get tired quickly, while under-exercised dogs can become restless or nervous on the board.
You may not know whether your dog loves SUP or not, but you can observe for signs.
A happy dog will eagerly walk up to the board, jump on or sit down comfortably, and stay relaxed even when the board rocks back and forth.
They might even wag, look at their environment, or lean into you as you move into position.
A stressed-out dog may freeze, whine, try to jump off repeatedly, or exhibit stress indicators such as lip licking, tucked tail, or wide eyes.
You can also allow your dog to watch other dogs on paddle boards before attempting it for themselves.
Either at the lake, dog park, or in short clips at home, dogs learn best from watching their counterparts.
Watching another dog gliding about on the board can reduce stress and create interest, more than using treats as an incentive alone.
Choosing the Right Paddle Board for You and Your Dog
Selecting the appropriate paddleboard isn’t just about you and your skills, it’s also about your pup’s comfort level.
Inflatable and solid boards are the two options you are likely to choose from, each of which has advantages and disadvantages when paddling with a pup.
We found the best choice for most owners to be an inflatable paddle board. They’re kinder to paws because of their soft deck and flexibility.
They also provide better traction and are easier to store and transport. Several inflatable boards feature full-length traction pads, keeping your pup stable and comfortable.
One of the most notable drawbacks of inflatable paddle boards is that they’re slightly slower and require time to inflate and deflate.
Your other choice will be Solid (rigid) paddle boards, which we found to provide improved speed and tracking, and it can be desirable for advanced paddlers.
On the flipside, solid paddle boards are heavier, harder to store, and provide less natural traction for a dog.
You might need to add padding to avoid slips or paw pain. They’re also more likely to scratch or chip due to your dog’s nails.
For stability, we recommend you look for boards that measure no shorter than 10 – 11 feet long and 32 – 35 inches wide.
An ideal weight capacity of at least 300 pounds is best if you plan to paddle with a medium or large breed dog, because it helps keep the board balanced and not sagging in the middle.
You’ll also want to look for stand-up paddle boards that have removable or adjustable deck rigging.
Taking the bungees off creates room for your furry friend to relax without getting tangled in cords or hooks.
Here’s our recommended paddleboard you can share with your dog. It does the job right, and we also love that it comes with a few more accessories.
MASTERISH Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards
If you’re planning on paddling with a canine passenger on board, the MASTERISH Gradient Pet Orange paddle board is designed exactly for that.
At a dimension of 11’6 x 35 x 6 inches, it’s a relatively roomier board in its category, and both you and your pooch will have enough space to extend without feeling cramped.
The diamond-textured EVA foam deck delivers great grip for both paws and feet and also prevents scuffing on the deck for your furry friend who can’t seem to be still for a moment.
It’s surprisingly stable, thanks to the low center of gravity and tri-fin setup, and handles well across lakes, rivers, and near-shore ocean paddles.
The built-in bracket is a smart touch if you like filming your outings or bringing fishing gear, and we liked the flexible D-ring layout for clipping on a pet life jacket or dry bag.
At over 30 pounds, it’s not the lightest option out there, but the included backpack and pump help keep setup manageable.
The gradient color design provides visibility on the water and looks good on camera as well.
It takes a bit of work to pump the board up, but when you achieve the correct PSI, the performance really clicks in.
10 Essential Paddleboarding Gear Recommendations
1. Ruffwear Dog Life Jacket
The standout feature of this life vest is its close, flexible design, which is both comfortable and safe to keep your dog in while paddling.
There’s an integrated handle that’s strong but low-profile, convenient when you need to hoist your dog back onto board level unobstructed.
We also love the reflective trim because it adds that extra visibility, and there’s also a loop to attach a safety light if you plan to paddle in early morning or evening hours.
Foam panels that mold to your dog’s movement help to keep him or her in a natural swimming position, comfortable for newbie swimmers.
2. Anti-Slip Dog Paw Protector Pads
These ultra-slim, adhesive paw pads are a sleek replacement for bulky boots, which is an added advantage when paddleboarding with your dog.
They’re particularly useful for older dogs or dogs with joint troubles who may have trouble keeping their footing on a paddle board’s slippery surface.
The pliable, breathable material stays lightweight and flexible, and an added waterproof coating provides an extra layer of paw protection against dirt or hot pavement.
Just trim any excess fur on your pup’s paws before adding them, and be prepared to replace them frequently if you paddle frequently.
3. VILLEY Dry Bag Waterproof
This rugged waterproof dry bag is designed to protect your gear when you paddle with your dog.
Made from heavy-duty PVC, it withstands scratches, splashes, and surprise dunking, which is the perfect solution if your dog has the urge to shake it off in the middle of paddling.
Sizes 5L and 10L work well for carrying essentials like treats, leash, or towel, while 20L accommodates additional gear without bulk.
As one of the paddle board accessories, it’s not going to be lightweight, and you’ll need to double-check that seal every time you are on the water.
4. SLSON Collapsible Bowl with Cover Lids
The compact, collapsible bowl is a great choice for paddle board paddling, particularly if you don’t have much room to spare.
It folds flat, clips onto a leash or pack using the attached carabiner, and opens up in an instant when you need to grab a water break.
The lid keeps dirt and sand out, although it’s not leak-proof, meaning it’s better suited for covering than closing up tight.
Capacity is suitable for small and medium breeds. Larger dogs may require refills, so you may need to use it multiple times to fill them up properly.
5. Vivifying Floating Long Dog Leash
This super-long leash provides just the right blend of freedom and control while paddle boarding your dog close to shore.
At 20 feet, the paddle board accessory is long enough to allow your dog to roam or swim while still being securely attached.
The lightweight, non-absorbing material also means it floats, so it won’t weigh down or get soggy while playing in water.
There is reflective threading to keep you conspicuous in poor lighting, and an included padded handle is a pleasant touch on long trips.
On the flipside, the leash can become tangled if your dog is extremely lively or you’re on a narrow board.
Regardless, it’s an intelligent backup leash for paddlers training dogs to remain nearby or just seeking extra protection near crowded waterways.
6. Doggles Dog Goggles ILS
These paddle boarding outfits are designed for dogs who spend lots of time on sunny lakes or ocean trips to protect their eyes from UVA and UVB rays, wind, and splashing water.
The wrap shape holds strongly in place due to two adjustable straps, and the lenses provide impact protection.
You will especially appreciate this feature if your paddling co-pilot tends to stick their head into the wind or push spray into their face.
Though they’re lightweight, not all dogs adapt to them quickly. Some may require slow acclimatization to tolerate them, though.
They’re a functional choice for stand-up paddle boarders keen on keeping dogs sensitive to light or breeds that suffer from eye issues.
7. Gentle Creatures Dog Sunscreen
The gentle spray is meant to shield dogs from sunburns, particularly those who have short hair or light coats that burn up quickly.
Without using zinc oxide, the typical sunscreen component that’s toxic to pets, it contains safer ingredients such as octinoxate, olive oil, and vitamin E that moisturize and guards exposed skin.
A non-aerosol formulation allows it to be sprayed onto or applied directly by hand, although you do need to be careful about getting it near your eyes and not letting your dog lick it off.
We recommend this product for your paddleboarding outings where your pup is going to be in sunshine for an extended time. It targets sensitive areas like nose, ears and belly.
8. Vet Approved Dog First Aid Kit
This pet-specific first aid kit is an excellent backup to carry while paddle boarding your pup, particularly if you’re heading off-grid or out for an entire day.
It contains the correct type of equipment, such as a tick remover, vet wrap, and fur-safe wound dressing guide, without adding generic items that won’t work on your pet.
The waterproof hard case keeps everything dry and accessible, with mesh pockets to remain organized even during a trip.
Despite being small enough to be tucked into a dry bag, there’s still room to add meds or extras specific to your pup.
The only potential downside is that the kit is designed for minor emergencies, so it may not suffice for serious injuries.
9. Dog ID Tags Personalized
These slip-on ID tags are a good choice for paddle boarders who don’t desire the traditional metal tags’ jingling sound.
They’re made of flexible, non-toxic silicone and designed to stretch over most buckle collars and remain secure even when moving, getting splashed, or engaging in general rough play.
The engraving is readable and water-tight, keeping your contact information legible even after days spent on the lake.
It’s a comfortable choice for high-energy or sensitive dogs who dislike bulk tags, but it might not stay on martingale or snap collars.
On SUP outings, it’s a stealthy method to get your dog equipped in case of an unexpected swim or getting lost while separated.
Just double-check to get the correct sizing to coincide with your dog’s collar size before you order.
10. Nite Ize S-Biner Stainless Steel Dual Carabiner
These stainless-steel S-Biners are a heavy-duty, flexible choice for attaching gear to your board, life vest, or dry bag while paddle boarding with your pup.
Each unit can hold up to 75 lbs.., so they are strong enough to hold leashes, bowls, or even the handle of a dog life jacket without bending or slipping.
The double-gated design allows you to connect one side to an item of gear and the other to an immovable object, which is useful when you’re multi-sporting in the middle of a paddle.
Although they work well for speedy attachment, they’re not locking carabiners, which means you’re best using them on non-critical gear.
On SUP adventures, use them to keep items you need close at hand but not on deck. Just use them as leash clips on active dogs when you’re closely supervising them.
Train Your Dog Before Hitting the Water
The foundation of training your dog for paddle boarding is four fundamental obedience cues that establish safety and predictability on the water: ‘Sit,’ ‘Stay,’ ‘Place,’ and ‘Off.’
Your foundation of balance and poise is established by using ‘Sit’ and ‘Stay,’ rewarding your dog with praise and treats every time he maintains it, even for just an instant.
You teach them where to be on the board using a specific spot, such as a mat or towel, using ‘Place.’
Your polite exit cue is ‘Off,’ which means your furry friend won’t jump off without your permission.
Always use positive reinforcement, never yank or push your dog into position. Let them gain confidence in their own time.
You can warm up your paddling furry friend before you go to the lake by doing these three steps at home.
First, set up the board in your front room or backyard and allow your dog to sniff and explore with no command, just praise for curiosity.
Then, lure them onto a ‘sit’ command on the board using treats. With them relaxed, work on ‘stay’ as you move slightly on or near the board.
Short, fun sessions, ending in success, are best. A slow, pressure-free introduction allows your dog to perceive the board as that relaxed hangout spot.
Professional trainers and SUP instructors suggest two dry-land balance exercises that most new paddlers often overlook.
Practice slow movement around your dog while it’s sitting on the board, in weight shifting, reaching for an imaginary paddle, or mock falling.
Reward relaxed response to motion and sound. Next, set up the board on a soft pad of a yoga mat or folded towel.
The slight wobble simulates water movement and trains your dog to readjust its position. It’s an easy, efficient means of preparing for actual conditions without the splash.
Always remember that patience beats speed any day. Some dogs take to SUP on a weekend, others need weeks. Let your dog’s comfort set the pace.
How To Introduce a Dog to a Water Paddleboard
Getting your dog accustomed to water for paddle board use is best accomplished in phases, with patience, treats, and shallow water.
A five-stage method is outlined below to acclimate your pup to splash life.
Step 1: Suit Up First
Get your dog used to wearing the life jacket before touching one of their paws. Practice wearing it at home, using treats and praise, and gradually associate it with something positive.
Step 2: Wade Together
Go to a peaceful, shallow area such as a quiet lake shore or sloping beach and walk alongside your dog at their pace.
Have your furry friend sniff and explore while keeping them in an area where all four feet remain on the bottom.
Step 3: Reward Contact
As your dog starts to touch water voluntarily, make sure to incentivize with a tasty treat or pleased voice. Don’t push them to do anything off limits.
Step 4: Include the Board
Put your paddleboard half in and half out of the water. Have your furry friend climb on and off as they choose.
Reward your dog for staying quietly on board and for not moving away from mild board movement as it rocks slightly in the water.
Step 5: Gentle Movement
When your canine friend is relaxed on the floating board close to shore, start stepping onto it with them. Take small, shallow paddles of just a few strokes, reward them, and get off. Gradually build up time.
If your dog is afraid of water, you can throw in close to shore a favorite flotation toy. Slowly add distance, always inside their comfort zone. This is fun, not frightening.
Easy Paddle Boarding Techniques for Dog Owners
To paddle safely while your dog is aboard, you must modify your stance to compensate for the extra shifting weight.
Begin by spacing your feet wider, to shoulder-width or slightly beyond. Turn your toes slightly outward, keeping your knees relaxed, rather than locked into position.
This allows you to ride any sudden shifts as your dog changes position or shifts about on board as if it’s an athletic, ready position, versus one of stiff posing.
To develop this muscle memory, you may need to perform this drill at home. Stand facing a wall, feet 18 – 24 inches apart, and slide into a wall sit.
Hold tight for 20 – 30 seconds. Pay specific attention to keeping your knees directly over your ankles.
Now, add in small arm movements as you’d do while paddling. This engages the same core and leg muscles you’ll be using in actual sessions.
Paddle Boarding Dog Safety To Remember
Before you paddle, scout ahead like an expert, watch for drifting buoys, steer clear of choppy, narrow channels, and ride to the right of slow-moving lanes.
Also, look at the UV index. Above 6 may increase the risk of sunburn and heatstroke, particularly for white or short-haired dogs.
Hydration is also very important, so make sure to carry at least one liter for every 44 pounds of pup and provide sips frequently, not just when you notice they are thirsty.
If you’re paddling for more than 45 minutes, we recommend you slather exposed areas with zinc-free, pet-friendly sunscreen and reapply every two hours or following every swim.
In case your pup goes swimming, relax, drop into a knee for balance, coax them alongside, grab them by the life-jacket handle, and rebalance the board as you help them back on.
Top 5 First-Time Mistakes
1. Leaping in too quickly
Many new paddlers hurry into that inaugural session, a bit too quickly to learn that their dog is anxious, unsteady, or downright freaked out.
To avoid this, you can begin slowly on dry ground, next move to shallow water where your dog walks on and off the board with no pressure.
2. Missing stress cues
It’s not difficult to get caught up in paddling and overlook your dog’s subtle signs of uncertainty or overwhelm, which include tense posture, lip-licking, and yawning.
Make sure to take regular pauses and observe your dog’s body language. You’ll also want to provide plenty of praise and breaks as required.
3. Using an incorrect leash setup
Many paddlers recounted wrapping a leash around a handle or attaching it in uncomfortable locations, inadvertently causing tangled lines, jumping up in panic, or even capsizing.
Use only a short, removable leash if it is absolutely necessary, and never attach it to your board or your body directly.
Post-Session Dog Care
Following each paddle session in salt water, make sure to rinse your dog quickly with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and algae that can ignite hotspots.
Pay close attention to paws, spaces between toes, and floppy ears, where debris and moisture remain and can cause infection.
Gently pat dry, not rub, to avoid further irritating skin that’s already been exposed to heat and salt.
Observe heavy panting, slow movement, or dry nose and gums, signs of fatigue or dehydration that crop up well before exhaustion sets in.
Provide small sips of chilled water every 15 to 20 minutes, rather than one large bowl, to avoid stomach upset.
Once dry, you can apply an unscented, pet-friendly paw balm or dab of aloe to cool pads worn down by salt and heat.
Rinse-and-return routine maintains regular paddlers’ health, comfort, and enthusiasm for next time’s adventure.
Conclusion
As you have seen, paddleboarding with your dog is a fun activity that can improve bonding while offering exercise.
To make a successful SUP with dog experience, make sure you know the basics, safety tips, and how to handle emergencies.
Our ultimate paddle boarding with your dog guide is a good starting point, but if you need more info, we recommend the book How to SUP With Your Pup by Maria Christina Schultz.
We’ll be happy to see photos of you and your furry friend paddle boarding safely. Feel free to tag us on Instagram @fursnpaws.dxb, you can use the tag #supwithdog.
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Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
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