How To Go Paddle Boarding with A Dog (Just In Time For Summer)

If you’re already planning ahead for summer, paddle boarding might just become your new favorite activity. Stand up paddle boarding (or SUP) with a dog is equal parts relaxing, exciting, and makes for some great Instagram photos! But before you and your buddy hit the water, there are a few things you’ll want to know to make the experience safe, fun, and smooth for both of you. (And why a waterproof dog GPS tracker is one of them.) Here’s your go-to guide for paddle boarding with a dog!

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Can you paddle board with a dog?

Absolutely! With a little patience and the right gear, most dogs can learn to enjoy a day out on the water. Some breeds may take to it more naturally than others (hello, water-loving retrievers). But even pups who aren’t natural swimmers can become paddle board pros with the right preparation.

So before you head out, think about your dog’s:

• Age
  Young, energetic dogs might need extra training to stay calm and balanced on the board. Older dogs may prefer shorter, slower rides that don’t strain their joints.
• Size
  Figuring out your weight balance is important when paddle boarding with a dog – safely. Smaller dogs can usually sit safely up front, while bigger dogs should ideally sit behind.
• Overall health
  Dogs with high anxiety or fear of water may need a more gradual introduction to paddle boarding. They’ll also need the core and leg strength to adjust to the “wobbly” feeling of a paddle board.
• Basic obedience training
  Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” are incredibly helpful when you’re out on the water. Your dog should begin by sitting by or between your legs when you’re out the first time.
• Socialization
  If your dog can remain calm in new environments, chances are they’ll enjoy SUP just as much as you do. Still unsure? Start with a short dry-land test session with the board, and see how your pup reacts before hitting the water.

If your dog snaps at fish or chases birds, you might be more likely than not to be dealing with a runaway attempt or two. (Or three.) In these cases, a waterproof dog GPS tracker can be a helpful emergency measure. Especially once you’re both on shore and your buddy has a tendency to wander off when bored.

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Where can I go paddle boarding with a dog?

Here are some dog-friendly destinations across the U.S. that are ideal for SUP adventures. (Plus general types of spots to keep an eye out for.)

• Calm lakes and reservoirs
  These are perfect for beginners – human and canine alike. Try Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada) or Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas, which has both calm currents and a vibrant dog-loving community.
• Slow rivers
  Like the French Broad River in Asheville, North Carolina or the Wisconsin River. Both offer multiple easy-access points and sandbars where you and your pup can take breaks.
• Dog-friendly beaches
  Dog Beach in San Diego or Jupiter Beach in Florida are both dog-friendly and welcoming to paddle boarders. Just double-check local leash laws and tide conditions before you go.
• Hidden coves or bays
  Like, for example, Tomales Bay in Northern California or the inlets of Lake Lanier in Georgia.

Wherever you go, make sure dogs are allowed in the area (especially on the water). Also, always clean up after your furry friend. Local paddle board rental shops may also have advice on the best dog-friendly launch spots nearby.

⚠️ Always check ahead if the water has blue-green algae – this can be harmful to dogs!

How to train your dog for paddle boarding

• Introduce the board at home
  Let your dog sniff, step on, and even sit on the board in your yard or living room. Offer your dog a treat if they approach it and lay down on it.
• Practice your basic training on the board
  Like, for example, “Sit” in their position on the board or – for an extra challenge – “Stay” when practising outdoors. You want your dog to obey even when in the middle of distractions, like passing birds, dogs, or people.
• Use a dog wobble board
  To help your buddy get used to the “wobbly” feeling and position themselves to not fall off.
• Show your dog how it’s done first
  Take the board out to the water yourself and smile and wave and speak encouragingly to them while they’re on shore. This can help them learn it’s a fun, positive experience.

• Introduce shallow water
  Move to a calm, shallow area – like the edge of a lake or a quiet beach – and practice getting on and off the board in the water. Allow your dog to jump off if they want, but only if it’s close enough to shore.
• Practice short paddles
  Begin with brief outings close to shore and keep the first few times short. Over time, your dog will start to see paddle boarding as a normal part of your routine.
• Be prepared for your dog to jump into the water at any time
  If you’ve got a big dog, this can overturn the board and have you land in the water as well. Practice your recall commands before you head out to the water and make sure your dog’s life jacket has handles that can help you pull them up on board.

Safety first: Tips before you hit the water

Choose a calm day with flat water. Think early mornings on a lake. Avoid windy conditions, waves, or strong currents, especially during your early outings. Make sure the water temperature is safe too, especially for small or short-haired dogs. You should also scout the area for boat traffic, swimmers, wildlife, or any distractions that could cause your dog to jump or panic.

Next, we’d recommend you trim your dog’s nails before you head out paddle boarding. Sharp nails can scratch and damage the paddle board’s surface, and your dog may also slip more easily if their nails are too long. A quick trim before your session can go a long way in keeping things safe.

Finally, avoid leashing your dog to the board while paddling. It can be dangerous if they fall off and get tangled. However, always carry a leash to secure them once you’re on land or in an emergency.

Paddle board equipment for you & your dog

• Wide, stable paddle board
  Experts recommend a board that’s at least 10 feet long (3 meters) and 32 inches wide (81 centimetres.) This will offer more stability, which is crucial when you consider both your weight and your dog’s. We’d also recommend you look for a SUP with a non-slip deck pad to give your dog extra grip under their paws.
• Dog life jacket
  Or a pooch flotation device (PFD). This is your dog’s most important piece of equipment. Choose one with adjustable straps for a secure fit and a sturdy handle on the back so you can quickly lift your dog out of the water if needed.
• A dog first aid kit
  Including basic items, like antiseptic solution, clean bandages, and fresh gauze in case you need to treat any injuries.
• Non-slip mat or towel
  Adding a towel or non-slip mat where your dog will sit can help them feel more secure and comfortable, especially when the board is wet. Some dog parents even recommend putting a yoga mat on the paddle board to prevent slipping or scratching.
• A dry bag
  Keep your valuables, snacks, and extra dog gear safe and dry. Many dry bags float, which is a bonus if anything goes overboard.
• Dog sunscreen
  Dogs with pink skin or short, light-colored fur can get sunburned. Apply dog-safe sunscreen to sensitive spots like the nose, ears, and belly.
• Fresh water and a collapsible bowl
  Paddle boarding can be thirsty work. Bring enough water for both of you and a bowl your dog can easily drink from.
• Poop bags and towel
  Always be ready to clean up after your pup and towel them off post-adventure.

Where a dog GPS tracker can be a lifesaver

It only takes one splash, bird, fish, or floating stick to tempt your pup into the water. Or when you’re nearing the shore after a peaceful paddle, your dog, excited to get out and run, leaps off before you’re ready. They might bolt into nearby woods, disappear into tall grass, or follow another dog down the trail. This is where a dog GPS tracker becomes more than a convenience – it’s a must-have.

In times like these, just head to your Tractive mobile app and hit “LIVE” to track your dog in real-time. Even if you’re in a remote area with limited visibility, real-time GPS tracking means you’re not limited to a network of devices. Plus you can follow your dog’s every step – as they make their every step.

“Tractive is the tracker that works! It lasts several days thanks to the at-home energy saving. It’s accurate and works predictably. The body is very robust and waterproof (like “swimming waterproof.”) We’ve been using it for 3 years without any issues. They provide international coverage with a built-in SIM card, so we can rely on it when traveling across Europe.”

– Petr Palas, CZ (Source: Trustpilot)

So grab your board, your pup, and your sense of adventure – the water’s calling!

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And if you’ve liked this post, share it with a friend or a loved one – and let’s build a safer, kinder world for our furry friends together.