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Paddle boarding has become an increasingly popular activity, and when you add your four-legged friend to the mix, it can elevate the experience to be even more fun and rewarding. However, it's important to ensure the safety and comfort of both you and your furry friend. To help you out, we’ve compiled a checklist of all the things you’ll need, along with some useful tips on how you can prepare and some important considerations, so you and your pooch can get the most out of your paddleboarding adventure.
What you’ll need for paddle boarding with your dog:
A dog-friendly paddle board:
Choose a stable and spacious paddleboard that can accommodate both you and your dog comfortably. Look for boards with a non-slip surface for better traction, also take into account the weight the board can handle - if you have a bigger dog, you’re going to need a board that can handle it.
We use a blow up paddle board which is easy to transport, store, blow up and take back down. You can find an array of paddle boards here.
If you can’t get a non-slip paddle board, or you already have one and need to add a bit more traction to it, you can find non-slip matts that you can apply to the board that can help you and your dog feel more secure.
A dog life jacket
It’s important to invest in a well-fitting, buoyant life jacket designed specifically for dogs. This will provide additional safety in case your dog falls into the water. The extra level of buoyancy will help support your dog with getting back on the board, and help them if they get tired from swimming. The handle on a life jacket also mean you can help them out too.
Think about the colour of the life jacket - the more vibrant the colour, the easier it will be to spot your dog in the water.
Make sure it’s well fitting and the right size for your dog.
There’s a wide range of life jackets for dogs now so if it’s your kind of thing, and you're feeling playful you might want to get one with a fin on it.
Doggy sun protection
It’s unlikely you’re going to be paddle boarding anywhere shaded, so we recommend you apply a dog-friendly sunscreen to your dog's exposed areas such as their nose, especially if they have light fur - and remember just because it isn’t always sunny, doesn’t mean they can’t get sun burn.
Consider a doggy rash guard or shirt for added sun protection. Rash guards like this one come in a range of sizes, are bright, lightweight, offer UV protection dry easily and are easy to clean.
Take fresh water
Bring plenty of fresh water for both you and your dog to stay hydrated. Paddling can be physically demanding, and it's essential to keep you both hydrated.
And so your dog has something to drink out of, we recommend taking a retractable dog bowl.
Lots of tasty dog treats
Make sure to take treats with you, as they’re great for rewarding your dog for listening to your commands to keep them safe.
Plus they’re great for training your dog before you even enter the water - more on that below.
Sunlight protection for your dogs eyes
A water-proof floating dog toy
To help your dog feel comfortable while paddle boarding, it can help to take a toy. We recommend taking one specially made for water, that floats, so it’s easy for you to find and retrieve if it drops in the water. This Octopus toy is a good example.
A waterproof dry bag
While on the waters you’ll want somewhere to store your items, and the things you need for your pooch, so we recommend taking a lightweight waterproof bag with you.
A first aid kit
Consider carrying a basic first aid kit for both you and your dog. Including items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications. Here's a dog specific one.
And don't forget dry towels
Bring dry towels to dry off your dog after the paddle. This is especially important if your dog gets wet or if the weather is cooler.
Tips and considerations when paddle boarding with your dog
Now that you've had an overview of the items you might need, here are some helpful tips on how to get you and your dog ready for the water.
Making sure your dog is comfortable with some paddle boarding training.
It’s important to ensure that your dog is comfortable with water and the paddleboard. Practice getting on and off the board on land before attempting it in the water. Rewarding them with treats when they listen to your commands.
Before and after training allow your dog to smell and familiarise itself with the board, along with the oar.
Once you’re confident your pooch is ready for the water, take them to shallow waters first, trying shorter trips to help you both build up your confidence of being on the water together.
Take it slow to begin with, be patience and know that it won't be long until your taking longer and further trips out on the water.
And remember to have fun!
Things to consider before going out to water with your dog
Check the weather conditions
Ensure that weather conditions are suitable for paddleboarding. Avoid strong winds, heavy currents, or stormy weather, as these can make the experience unsafe for both you and your dog.
Identification tags:
Double-check that your dog's collar has updated identification tags with your contact information in the unlikely event of any unexpected incidents, this can help reunite you with your four-legged friend.
Above all else, just remember this is meant to be a fun experience, and it’s important to prioritise you and your dogs safety and comfort - always be attentive to your dog’s behaviour and well-being throughout the experience.
So are you ready for a paddle boarding adventure? Why not check out the Llyn Padarn and
Llyn Geirionydd in North Wales? The perfect spots for first time and more experienced boarders - they'll make for the perfect day out for you and your dog.
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