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Paddle boarding with your dog is an incredible experience that can bring so much joy to both you and your dog. Not only does it provide you both with a fun way to exercise, but it also allows for quality time together in the great outdoors. This ultimate guide covers all the basics you need to know about supping with your pup.
Get the right-sized paddle board for you and your dog
The first step for paddle boarding with your dog is to buy a dog-friendly stand up paddle board. It’s important to buy one which is big enough to fit both you and your dog comfortably. In addition, it should be compatible with dog’s paws and have a deck pad so your dog doesn’t slip off.
Introduce your dog to the paddle board
After you have purchased the best paddle board for you and your dog it’s time to introduce them to it. Start off slow by allowing your dog to naturally enquire about the new object and reward them when they do. The purpose of this is for your dog to build up a positive association with the board so that they are excited whenever you pull it out to go on your trips.
Teach your dog the SUP commands
There are a few commands which your dog should know before you head to the water. This will ensure smooth stand up paddle boarding trips by keeping your dog safe.
Teach your dog the following commands whilst they are on the paddle board:
- Sit-stay – to keep your dog in one place on the board in the sitting position
- Down-stay – this is to have your dog lie down and stay in their position – also for when your dog needs more balance
- Release – this is the command to give your dog when it is safe for them to jump off the board
It’s important for your dog to know they have to stay on the board and are not allowed to leave the board until they get the “release” command. This is to avoid them from jumping off into the water and hurting themselves on any debris which may be in the water.
Make sure your dog can swim
This may be an obvious one but it is important to know whether your dog can actually swim before you head to the water.
Not all dogs can swim so it’s good to know your dog’s swimming abilities before you take them on the water. It’s a good idea to get them a dog life jacket whenever they are out on the water, even if they are strong swimmers.
How to get on and off of the paddle board
The trickiest part about paddle boarding with a dog is getting on and off the paddle boards in the water.
Getting on the board
- Place the back of the board in the water and the front of the board on the shore.
- Get on the board and face the shore – stay in the kneeling position.
- Ask your dog to get on the board and either ask them to “sit-stay” or “down-stay” to keep them in position.
During the trip
- Using your paddle, gently push off of the shore.
- Ask your dog to “down-stay” if they seem unbalanced or uneasy.
- Remain kneeling until you feel confident enough to stand up.
- Stick to short paddles until your dog is confident enough for a longer SUP adventure.
Getting off the board
- As you come back to shore, ask your dog to get into their “sit-stay” or “down-stay” position.
- Paddle towards shore until the front of the board hits the shore.
- When it’s safe to do so, give your dog the “release” command so they know they can jump off the board and onto the shore.
- Climb off the board and pull the rest of it onto the shore.
What to bring on your paddle board trip
There are a few items to remember for your trip:
- Dog life jacket
- Dog treats
- Fresh water to drink
- Towel
- Poop bags
- Dry bag to keep belongings in
- Waterproof dog toys
Don’t forget
Don’t forget to allow a bathroom break for your dog before you take them out onto the water. This will make it less likely they will jump off in search for a place to pee.
It is also a good idea to play with your dog in the water before you get on the board with them. This will tire them out and make it less likely they’ll jump off to swim and chase other animals on the water.
Conclusion
Paddle boarding with your dog is a great way to bond and have fun together in nature. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for an enjoyable and safe experience out on the water. With proper training, safety protocols, and supplies, paddle boarding with your pup will be one of the most enjoyable activities for both you and your pup to enjoy.
