A Guide to Paddleboarding with Your Dog

If you crave warm weather adventure, paddleboarding with your dog is a whole new kind of good. You’re not just out there for yourself. You’re sharing the experience with your four-legged sidekick, building trust, tackling something new together, and making the kind of memories that stick.
As you glide across a still lake or coast along a gentle inlet, you’ll find that it’s an activity that’s totally doable and absolutely worth it.

Paddleboarding with Your Dog
There are countless reasons why stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a very popular water sport. It’s low-impact, easy to pick up, and more accessible than kayaking or surfing. Not much strength or expert coordination is required for a great time. A paddle board, a body of water and a little balance is all that’s needed when paddleboarding with your dog.
Paddleboarding is adventure personified for your four-legged companion. They get to ride up front like the leader they were born to be. They get to take in all the exciting waterside sights and smells. And of course, they get to be outdoors and be active with you, something they’re always up for.
If your furry friend is used to the water, it won’t take much convincing to get them on a paddleboard. But even the most hesitant pup can become a confident co-paddler.

Getting Started
Before you even think about paddleboarding with your dog, get them familiar with the board on dry land. Set it down in the yard or living room and let them sniff around. Reward curiosity with treats and praise. Help your dog associate the paddleboard with good things like attention, snacks and belly rubs. Gradually, start practicing cues like “sit” or “stay” on the board. Once your dog is comfortable standing or sitting on the board and obeys your commands, you’re ready to try the water.
(Here’s a pro tip: Practice your balance with your dog on the board on dry land first. The shifting weight can throw you both off. It’s better to try rocking back and forth and side to side, so you can get used to being on board together.)

SUP With Your Pup: 6 Safety Tips
For your big dog, a wider board (32”+ across) gives you both more room and better balance.
Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, a canine life jacket is essential. This is especially true on open water or for longer paddles. Get one with a sturdy handle on top so you can grab it and get your dog back on board if they fall or jump off.
Some boards are already grippy. If you have a board that is too slick for your dog, you can add a traction mat for extra stability.
Don’t leash your dog while paddling. If your dog should end up in the water accidentally the leash could choke them. Train your dog before getting on the board so that a leash is not necessary.
Paddling is thirsty work. Bring water just for your pup, they shouldn’t be drinking lake or ocean water.
Dogs with thin fur or light skin can get sun burn. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to canine noses and ears when paddleboarding with your dog.

First Time on the Water
Start somewhere calm. Try a quiet lake or a slow-moving river. Avoid bodies of water with choppy waves and strong currents.
Lead your dog onto the board once it’s floating in shallow water. Then climb on after you judge they are settled. Sit or kneel to start. You’ll be more stable and closer to your dog, which helps with both confidence and control.
Stay calm, practice the cues you’ve been teaching your dog, and reward them when they get it right. Keep the first outing short and sweet.
Watch the weather when you’re paddleboarding with your dog. Dogs can overheat quickly on hot days. Take breaks in the shade or let them take a dip to cool off.
Know when to call it. If your dog seems nervous, restless, or tired, take a break.

Do You Have a SUP Pup?
Water-loving Retrievers, Labs and German Shepherds and even smaller breeds like terriers and Australian cattle dogs have learned to SUP with success.
But not every pup is cut out for paddleboarding. Dogs that are too anxious, aggressive, or struggle with mobility may not enjoy the experience.
How do you know if your companion is ready for a water adventure? Give paddleboarding a try if they:
· Love water and aren’t afraid to jump in
· Trust you and follow cues
· Can sit or lay calmly for periods of time

Dive Into Adventure
The right way to go paddleboarding with your dog is the way that keeps you both safe and happy. Start slow. Pack smart. Stay patient. Relish an adventure that’s just simply better together.

And as you live the good life with your dog, whether outdoors, off leash and in the middle of nature, remember that we’re here to fuel your adventure with Black Gold Explorer nutrition. Our range of formulas for high-performing active dogs can be found here.