Before your dog even touchs the water, get your dog comfortable sitting or lying on a specific spot on land. Use a towel, mat, or deck pad segment. Reward them for staying put. This becomes their “seat” once you’re on the board. Dogs don’t magically behave better on the water. They behave the way you train them on land.

Take your time to treat them right

Don’t skip this. Dogs fall in more often than owners think and doggie paddle water steals their energy fast. A good dog PFD should have:

• A sturdy grab handle
• Bright color
• Adjustable chest and belly straps
• A snug, no-slide fit

This PFD from Ruffwear is a classic and you will find many dogs on the water wearing it.

Keep it simple and keep it safe. You want snacks that won’t upset their stomach mid-paddle. Here are a few good options:

• Peanut butter biscuits
• Freeze dried chicken bites
• Small apple slices
• Small store bought training treats work too

Avoid anything crumbly that turns your deck pad into granola. Dogs do not clean that up no matter what the internet says.

One of the funniest moments I ever saw on the water was a dog who decided to protect his human from a floating stick. Clearly, the stick was not a threat, but the dog didn’t care. He launched himself off the nose of the board like a torpedo and came up looking way too proud of himself, while the paddler got dumped into the lake. That’s the reality of paddling with dogs. They bring joy, chaos, and personality. Half the fun is letting them experience the water on their own terms, but know that you are going to go for a swim or two.

🔗 Get your dog comfortable on the board

🔗 Zen SUP Pup

🔗 Best Way to Spend your REI Dividends ​

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