From Pup to SUP: Stand-Up Paddleboarding with Your Pup

Updated 10 September 2023
3 minutes to read

Paddleboarder and two dogs on paddleboard on water, dog to the left shaking water off

Paddleboarding with Pups: A Beginner’s Guide to SUP with Dogs

As a dog owner who loves paddleboarding, I know how exciting it is to combine these two passions – stand up paddleboarding (SUP) with your dog! When you see images of pups balanced on boards, splashing around and taking in the sights, it’s natural to want to try it yourself. In this post, I’ll share my experience with SUP with dogs as a beginner, including how to get started and have safe fun out on the water.

If you’re still deciding whether SUP is right for you, check out our post on SUP for beginners.

Introducing Your Pup to SUP

White dog sitting on paddleboard on the water

Start by letting your dog get familiar with the SUP board at home or on land first. Let them walk around it, get used to the feel and smell, and reward them for being calm on the board. Use a command like “up on the board” so they learn to hop on when you say so. Go slowly and keep sessions short and positive. This lays the foundation for their comfort.

Equip Your Dog for Paddleboard Adventures

Safety comes first when SUP with dogs. A dog life jacket provides flotation if they go overboard and gives you a handle to help them back up. Protect paws with booties or paw balm. Bring plenty of fresh water and a collapsible bowl too. Doggie sunscreen, a leash, and traction mat will also come in handy for a worry-free time.

If you’re looking for advice on how to fit your dog’s PFD, here is a blog we recommend.

Assess Conditions Before Heading Out

Check water conditions and weather before each trip with your dog. Avoid potential hazards like strong winds or currents. Start in shallow, calm areas like small lakes or protected bays so your dog can gain confidence on the board. Gradually work up to more challenging waters once skills improve. But pick ideal conditions for each outing.

Practise Falling Off and Getting Back On

Paddleboarder paddling on water with small dog between legs, facing camera

Even seasoned paddling pups may fall off occasionally, so practise recovery. Teach your dog to swim back to the board and put their paws up while you use their life jacket handle to lift them back up. Stay calm, go slowly, and reward success during practise sessions. This prevents panic if they really do go overboard.

Let Your Dog Enjoy the Ride

As important as training is helping your dog really enjoy their time on the water. Let them explore sights, sounds, and smells (safely of course!) to their heart’s content. Play fetch with floating toys or give them a chance to swim around. Shift their position on the board to keep them engaged. SUP with dogs is about the experience, not just the technical parts.

Your canine friend might just turn out to be the best SUP boarding partner you could ask for!

SUP Canine Precautions

While SUP with dogs can be an absolute blast, it’s not without some risks. Always put safety first, know your dog’s limits, and don’t push too far too fast. Be very aware of weather and water conditions that could endanger your dog. Lead by example with your gear and preparedness.

When done responsibly, paddleboarding with your pup can be a profoundly fun adventure for you both. You’ll bond over the new challenges and discoveries, not to mention the memories made exploring on the water together. Just take it slowly and let your dog set the pace. But the effort is so rewarding – SUP with dogs is the ultimate aquatic pastime!

Let me know how your first SUP sessions with your furry friend go! Happy paddling!