5 Best Paddleboards for Dogs

Dogs are humans’ best friends, and many people prefer to bring their four-legged friends everywhere – even paddleboarding. While factors like your dog’s size, comfort out on the water, and even training are all very important, choosing the best paddleboard for dogs is important for safety and comfort. WakeScout has compiled a list of some of the best options and how to choose the one that is right for your needs.

Best Paddleboard for Dogs

When choosing a paddleboard for your dog, there are several important factors to think about. Stability, which is the SUP’s tendency to stay afloat and upright despite movement, should be a top priority. The American Kennel Club recommends a wide, sturdy paddleboard that can easily support your combined weight. Furthermore, the organization also recommends some extra traction to help you and your dog stay on the board at all times.

How Large Is Your Dog?

Your pet’s size is important when it comes to choosing the best paddleboard for dogs. Dogs weighing over 60 pounds are considered large breeds, so a larger SUP is better. On the other hand, smaller to mid-sized dogs will do just fine on virtually any paddleboard that features good traction and quality materials.

How Comfortable is Your Dog on the Water?

Some dogs are right at home in the water, but others are skittish and reserved. Before attempting to paddleboard with your dog, spend some time near a local body of water and judge how he or she reacts. If necessary, you can offer treats or praise to help them become more accustomed to the idea of the water. It’s important to remember that not every dog who loves water will do well on a paddleboard. Never push a dog who seems uncomfortable or skittish around the water.

How Well Trained is Your Dog?

Training and obedience are vital to your paddleboarding success. Before attempting to take your dog out on the water, make sure that he or she responds well to basic commands. Dogs who readily and eagerly respond to “sit,” “stay,” “heel,” and “come” can be trained to ride a SUP.  It is also a good idea to ensure that you have ample experience with standup paddleboarding before taking your dog out with you. According to Pawtracks, dogs can sense your trepidation and nervousness, and they will mirror it – especially in unfamiliar situations.

Paddleboard Options

The best paddleboards for dogs range in price, style, and features, but they are all large enough to comfortably accommodate an adult and a dog. WakeScout’s recommendations include options from Sea Gods, Atoll, NIXY, ISLE, and Aqua Marina.

Sea Gods Skylla CX Stand Up Paddle Board

This inflatable paddleboard from Sea Gods is 11 feet long, 33 inches wide, and six inches thick, which makes it plenty large enough for an exciting excursion out on the water. It can be described as an excellent general-purpose board that can be used for cruising and touring, even for beginners. It’s lightweight and easy to pack into a backpack, as well.

The Skylla CX from Sea Gods includes a dual-chamber manual pump, a three-piece paddle, a wheelie backpack for comfortable carrying, a safety leash, and a fin. It features beautiful artwork and it is made with quality materials backed by a lifetime warranty.

Atoll 11’ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Atoll’s 11-foot inflatable SUP is another one of the best paddleboards for dogs due to its shape, size, and durability. It is 32 inches wide and 6 inches thick, and because it is made with quality dual-layer PVC, it is lightweight and durable. This rigid and sturdy board supports up to 400 pounds with ease, and it has even been tested at weights in excess of 700 pounds.

The Atoll SUP comes in several beautiful colors, including Aquamarine, Burgundy, Desert Sand, Green, and Wolf Grey. It includes a Bravo manual hand pump, a three-piece aluminum alloy paddle, a safety leash, and a travel backpack for easy carrying.

NIXY Monterey G4 Paddleboard

The Monterey G4 by NIXY has several enhancements and features that make it one of the very best paddleboards for dogs. It’s 11 feet and six inches long, 32 inches wide, and six inches thick, but it only weighs 25 pounds when fully inflated. The advanced construction incorporates dual-layer woven dropstitch fusion technology to improve the SUP’s resiliency and durability. A nonslip EVA foam traction pad keeps you and your dog safe, and the addition of a second outer layer band creates some additional rigidity to keep you stable.

The NIXY Monterey G4 comes in Aqua and Olive colors, and it is backed by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. The kit comes with an adjustable carbon hybrid paddle, three detachable fins, a hybrid coiled leash, a dual-chamber manual pump, and a comfortable backpack.

ISLE Explorer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

The ISLE Explorer is 11 feet and six inches long, 34 inches wide, and six inches thick. It features a 300 pound capacity, which is plenty for most riders and their four-legged friends, and it comes with a grooved EVA traction pad built right in. ISLE’s Airtech Fusion Lite manufacturing process creates an incredibly strong bond between the materials, including the military-grade PVC. This SUP is perfect for longer excursions due to its front and rear bungee system, which can hold a significant amount of gear.

The Explorer is available in two dual-color options: Aqua and Navy or Peach and Moss. The accessories in the kit include an adjustable paddle with a carbon shaft and nylon blade, a versatile carry backpack, a high-pressure manual pump, a coil leash, and a snap-in fin. ISLE even includes branded stickers with your purchase of the Explorer.

Aqua Marina Monster All-Around iSUP Paddle Board

Finally, the Aqua Marina Monster is one of the best paddleboards for dogs due to its unique construction and features. It is the longest board on this list at 12 feet, but the 33-inch width and six-inch thickness are standard. The Monster features a heat-welded dual chamber design that keeps the board rigid and sturdy, and Aqua Marina’s high-frequency welding technology bonds the layers of PVC to make them virtually indestructible. The addition of a diamond grooved footpad helps you and your dog maintain your grip and stability.

Aqua Marina’s Monster is a bright red color, so you will definitely stand out, even in crowded bodies of water. The kit includes a lightweight paddle, a double-action pump,  a reinforced nylon fin, and a carry backpack for comfort.

The best paddleboard for dogs can vary depending on several important factors like size, shape, and features. Once you have chosen the best SUP for you and your dog, let WakeScout help you discover the best place to use it. Just pack up your new pet-friendly paddleboard, life jackets, and sunscreen and prepare for a day of adventure.

Our directory includes a variety of clubs, resorts, and wake parks that provide excellent opportunities for you to safely SUP with your pup.