HOW TO GET STARTED PADDLEBOARDING WITH DOGS

GETTING STARTED: PADDLEBOARDING WITH DOGS

At TRAILDOG Events, we just love getting outside and adventuring with our dogs. The summer sun offers a great opportunity to get out for some water-based activities when it might be too warm to walk! Darcy absolutely loves being a SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) pup and all our dogs have been introduced to the paddleboard.

We are often asked how best to introduce a dog to paddleboarding, so here are a few top tips from our experience…

BOUYANCY

Even if your dog is the next Michael Phelps, it’s essential that they wear a buoyancy aid when paddleboarding with dogs. If your dog takes a dive off the board, it gives you peace of mind that they are safe and makes them easy to spot in the water. Choose one with a sturdy handle on the top to make it easier to lift them back on the board. Our choice is the Non-stop Dogwear Protector life jacket.

INTRODUCTION ON LAND: HOW TO TEACH YOUR DOG TO SIT ON A PADDLEBOARD

Get your dog used to the feel of the board by introducing it out of the water. I think most people who SUP with their dog have had an inflated board in the house before! Invite them onto the board and back off; you can use their favourite treats or toy to encourage them on. Although the board won’t have the same movement as on the water, it will still move slightly when mounted. Making sure your dog associates the board with having fun is super important!

When selecting a location for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) with your dog, prioritise calm, shallow, and sheltered waters, such as a lake or a calm bay, to minimise hazards and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Avoid locations with strong currents, waves, or boat traffic.

START SLOW

When introducing a new dog to a paddleboard, I like to get the board on the water and the dog on the board without me. I then walk the board around the water while rewarding them with treats or words of encouragement. This allows the dog to get used to the feel of the board with the security of knowing that you have them under control and your whole focus is on them and not paddling – a great first step when paddleboarding with dogs!

LEAD OFF

A question we’re asked A LOT! Should the dog have their lead on or off? Ideally, we want the dog to be free – this is the safest option for both human and dog. However, we know that sometimes it’s not possible with prey-driven dogs (my dog, Poko!).

If you are lucky enough to have access to a secure lake then you are blessed! Not everybody has this luxury though, here are a few of our suggestions:

Floating Line – Like a longline is used on dry land, you could use a floating line attached to your dog. This might just give you enough time to grab it if needed.

Quick release Waist Belt – If you absolutely must have your dog attached, a quick release belt is a safe option. You can purchase quick release belts to attach to the normal coiled SUP lead. However, you could attach your dog’s lead to this instead, using a carabiner. This would allow the dog to be attached but also (as the name suggests) allow you to quickly release your dog should you need to in an emergency.

ON YOUR KNEES

I always say to everyone; there is absolutely no pressure to stand up (most see these words as a challenge though!). Taking your dog on the SUP is about giving your dog a good time and your focus should be on them and their enjoyment. Always start in the kneeling position, the board will be more stable for both you and your dog. You can offer treats as you paddle, some dogs will sit and some will want to be standing on the edge of the board surveying their kingdom – there are no rules!

If you decide to go into a standing position, expect a little kiss on your way up as you lean to swap your knees with your feet! You can always drop back to your knees if things start to get unsteady!

A good idea is to tuck your treats into your buoyancy aid so your dog has something to focus on…but be careful as you lean forwards or your dog will get a shower of Carnilove!

HAVE FUN WITH YOUR DOG ON THE PADDLEBOARD

As mentioned earlier, this is about your dog having fun. If they aren’t enjoying it, don’t force them. You know your dog best and how they respond to new experiences. There are no rules when it comes to paddleboarding with dogs; get out, expect to get wet and have fun!

Written by Katie Kirkup, Founder of TRAILDOG Events. TRAILDOG offer Canicross and other exciting dog sport events in the North East of England, at picturesque venues including Raby Castle and Wallington National Trust.