Kayaking is considered a great and fun sport for pet owners & their canines to enjoy memorable time together. Well, canines make a wonderful kayak companion as they do not complain about getting bored, wet, & always demand minimum items. In fact, dogs love physical and outdoor activities in order to be happy & healthy. So, not matter what the outside weather is like, snow, waves, sun, or rain, pet parents would be hard pressed to get a more reliable and fun-loving paddling companion.
On the other hand, all those pet owners who love adventure but sometimes feel guilty as they have to leave the canines at home then, there is no need to get worried anymore. Pet parents should remember that canines love adventure as well and there are several smells and sights to ponder that canines will remain stimulated, happy, & engaged for a long time. An amazing activity for bonding that pet parents & their canines can easily cherish together is a cruise in a beautiful and cozy kayak.
And, the 1st most important step towards an enjoyable & fruitful kayaking experience is getting the best kayak for dogs, one that offers comfort and safety. To make things easier for prospective buyers, I have compiled a list of the best products currently available in the market.
What are the Different Types of Dog Kayaks?
Mainly there are three types of kayaks:
- Tandem Dog Kayaks
- Sit-on-Top Dog Kayaks
- Inflatable Dog Kayaks
- Closed Cockpit Dog Kayaks
Kayaks to Avoid:
The following kayaks are not considered safe for canines:
- Whitewater Kayaks
- Sea Kayaks
Safety Matters a Lot:
It is worth sharing that safety is important, for both pet parents & their beloved companions. There are some crucial things that should be kept in mind while taking the canines out on the water:
- Have your canine wear a PFD at all times
- Wear sunscreen as few areas are prone to sunburn such as belly and nose
- Do not tie the canines to the boat
- Better to take plenty of food & water
- Try sticking to calm water
- A first-aid kit
- Bringing a harness and leash is also a good idea
- Do not forget to praise the canines for their positive behavior, so take rewards and treats for positive reinforcement
The Ultimate Guide to Kayaking With Your Dog
Introduction: Why Kayaking with Your Dog is Awesome
Kayaking is a recreational activity that can be done alone or with other people, and with or without a dog. This post will explore how kayaking with your dog can be an awesome experience and why it might be something you want to try.
Kayaking is a recreational activity that can be done alone or with other people, and with or without a dog. This post will explore how kayaking with your dog can be an awesome experience and why it might be something you want to try.
It might seem like an unusual idea to kayak with your pet, but there are many amazing experiences that come from doing this. You get to spend more time together in the great outdoors, enjoy the scenery together, and even take pictures of them next to all kinds of wildlife! But there are also risks
Equipment Requirements for Kayaking with Your Dog
Kayaking with your dog is a great way to exercise and bond with them all at once. There are some things that you need to consider before kayaking with your dog.
Some of the equipment that you will want to have will be; life jacket for the dog, leashes, safety harnesses, life jackets for you, and dry storage for both of you. The leash will be used as a safety precaution since there are many dangers in moving water like rocks or logs.
Choosing the Right Type of Kayak for You and Your Pup
We review the Best Kayak for Dogs for you below so you can check that out.
Safety & Comfort Tips for Paddling With Your Dog
The safety and comfort of your dog is always the number one priority when you are paddling. You can also bring your dog’s favorite toy, leash, collar, and food. Keep in mind that dogs need extra hydration too because they will be panting like crazy to cool down. Make sure that you keep enough fresh drinking water available for yourself and your pup. If you plan on bringing along toys, make sure that they don’t float away if you capsize. Also remember to put up any loose items that could fall into the water.
What Kinds of Dogs Can Go Kayaking?
Anyone that is able to swim and has a good sense of balance can kayak. As long as you don’t mind getting wet and want to go for a leisurely ride on the water, kayaking is an excellent activity for you. If your dog is small enough, they can come too!
Size:
A small dog can fit in the cockpit (and some even like to paddle!) but it’s not always easy. The weight limit of a kayak is about 300 pounds. This means there are lots of different size dogs that can still come along on your adventure, but some will be too heavy or too big to sit comfortably in the boat with you. It may be better to choose another type of craft such as canoe or raft instead.
If you’re looking for a bigger dog, then look no further than our list of best inflatable boats for large breeds. These puppies are perfect for larger dogs who love being outside and exploring new places. They offer plenty of room inside and out, making them ideal for taking trips around town or going camping. Plus, these puppies are super durable and built to last.
How Much Does It Cost To Take A Pet Along On A Kayak Trip?
There are several ways to do this depending on what kind of trip you’re planning. Some companies offer day trips where you just rent their boats and then drop off your dog after the tour. Others charge by the hour or per mile traveled. Most places require that you sign waivers saying that you won’t sue them if anything happens while you’re out on the river.
If a dog’s legs are longer than their torso they may have trouble fitting comfortably in the cockpit without stretching
How to Train Your Dog to Use a Paddle Board or Pontoon Boat
This article will provide an overview of how to train your dog to use a pontoon or paddleboard. Training may take weeks or months, depending on the dog’s temperament and level of training.
1) Start by introducing the pontoon boat to your dog. Let them sniff it and explore it at their own pace.
2) Place their favorite toy or treat on the bench inside the boat. Allow them to get inside and sit for a few seconds before giving them the toy or treat as a reward for entering it.
3) Repeat step 2 two more times per day over the course of five days, gradually lengthening the time they spend in there each time until they can stay in there for five minutes without leaving.
Reviewed: Best Kayak For Dogs
It is getting more & more common to see pet owners taking their canines on kayaking. Due to the huge demand, pet parents can get a wide range of products on the market however, selecting the right one can be a time taking job. Well, I would like to say that it does not matter whether buyers are looking for big boats especially for open water or just an inflatable for a nearby lake, they can pick the best kayak for their pooches from the below-mentioned products.
Ocean Kayak
Now pet parents can enjoy sun & surf with their furry companions with Ocean Kayak 3 seating positions, which also support tandem, solo, & tandem paddling. It is worth sharing that my top and recommended pick for the best kayak for canines goes to Ocean kayak mainly due to the performance, build quality, & deck space which can accommodate 1-2 people & a pooch.
Moreover, there are 2 premium-quality and durable foam padded seats at rear and back along with a tiny center seat. The Ocean kayak is made of extremely long-lasting polyethylene which can last for years to come if used and cared for properly. Likewise, there is a skid plate as well on the kayak’s exterior to protect it from wear & tear.
I love this kayak because it is perfect for my needs. I love that it is easy to use and I can take my dog out with me on the water. The seats are perfect for my dog and I love that they are adjustable. I also love that I can have my dog on the boat with me without worrying about her getting hurt. This is the perfect kayak for anyone who loves to take their pet with them on the water.
This is my favorite kayak. It’s a sit-on-top kayak so you don’t have to worry about getting wet. It’s a little heavy so I have to carry it by myself. I can put it on top of my car and drive to the lake. I have used it in a lot of different places. It’s great in the ocean and in lakes. I’ve used it as a single, a tandem, and a fishing kayak. I use it now in Colorado on a mountain lake. It’s a great kayak for fishing. I have a lot of fun in it. I have used it with my kids and my dog. It’s a little small for two people, but it’s a great kayak overall.
Pros:
- Comfortable seats
- Affordable family adventure
- Multipurpose
- Easy & stable
- Give the best value for money
Cons:
- Leaking issues
User Experience:
According to the buyers, this dog-friendly kayak is lightweight & easy to carry down into the water. Many other buyers have commented that this Kayak is solid, good for 2 people, stable, & simple to set up.
Sevylor Coleman Kayak
Another great product that comes under the category of the best kayak for dogs is Sevylor Coleman: durable, comfortable, and inflatable, this product is surely a perfect option for either 2 people, or a dog & a person. Talking about durability, the Kayak’s bottom is made of 1000D tarpaulin whereas its 840D nylon cover gives required protection against punctures.
Furthermore, there are 2 adjustable seats to give utmost comfort to canines. Pet parents can even move the seat further or closer whenever needed. So, all those prospective buyers who are looking for a durable product that has good stability in the water, they should consider buying the Sevylor Coleman kayak to remain comfortable on long-distance trips.
I love this one too because my dog loves kayaking! I like the quality of the kayak and the design. The product has multiple air chambers that allow me to inflate the kayak if one is punctured. The rod holders are adjustable for hands-free fishing. I can’t think of another kayak that has this feature. I love the design and the quality of this product!
Pros:
- Adjustable seats
- Airtight system to prevent leaks
- Paddle holders
- Easy to inflate
- Super Portable
Cons:
- Provided instructions are generic
User Experience:
This product is extremely famous among kayaking avid, and according to them, for an inflatable kayak, no one can beat this quality and price. It has a solid construction along with nifty rod holders & storage compartments. In short, this kayak has met the needs of every buyer nicely.
Intex Excursion Kayak
A highly recommended product that gives the convenience and comfort of inflatable kayak along with more durability of the strong internal construction. This versatile kayak is best to enjoy fishing & cruising around with canines. Moreover, the kayak’s body is made from heavy-duty & layered material while being capable to hold upto 400 pounds of weight.
So, the kayak should be tough enough to support most human & canine teams. The Intex Excursion kayak is designed with in-built rod holders for canine-owning anglers, interchangeable fins, & foot rests that people can easily swap out in order to match water depth. Apart from this, it comes with 2 adjustable and inflatable seats, so pet parents should have no issue making room for their furballs.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Abrasion resistant
- Removable mounting bracket
- Super tough construction
- Has a carry bag & repair patch
Cons:
- A bit cramped
User Experience:
According to the buyers, this kayak is a very comfortable and durable option that gives a lot of stability. Many buyers have loved the fact that it comes with different amazing bonus features & it is available at an affordable price range as compared to other kayaks.
Buying Guide: Best Kayak for Dogs
Now the article has covered the reviews of three best kayaks for canines, it must be easy for buyers to select the right one for their canines. But this is not the case, do not worry, I can truly understand that pet parents want the best product for their pooches in terms of durability, safety, and price but with different kayaks on the market, selecting the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Therefore, I have prepared this very simple yet informative buying guide.
What should be Considered While Selecting the Kayak for Canines?
It does not matter which type of kayak pet parent want to purchase, sit-on-top or recreational, there are few things that every canine-friendly boat should offer:
Enough Space
Well, pet parents can take their canines on the water trips with them by putting them between their legs but wait a minute, is that really a safe and comfortable position for both of them? I guess not really. Therefore, it is advised to pick a kayak with 2 seats.
Durable Material
It is worth mentioning that kayaks have to be sturdy & made of highly durable material to help prevent unforeseen incidents.
Stability
This factor matters a lot therefore, pet owners should look for wider, sturdy kayaks along with stable hulls to make floating easier.
Design
It is better to select a design that is comfortable for the canines, a sit-on-to design is mandatory.
Can Canines go In an Inflatable Kayak?
Well, I would like to say that an inflatable kayak might be a little risky however, pet parents can make an inflatable kayak work if they go with a durable model & their canines’ nails are kept well-trimmed.
What are the Best Places to Go Kayaking with Canines?
I would recommend sticking to different flat lakes in the beginning in order to ensure that canine gets comfortable. After achieving this milestone, pet parents can easily go anywhere from touring to long-trips on weekends. But always do a lot of research beforehand to ensure that the selected place is safe for canines.
Is Your Dog Capable of, or Suitable for, Kayaking?
There are several factors you must consider in order to answer this question. Is your dog in good health? Does your dog have a full range of motion.
Some dogs are better kayakers than others. The importance of making sure that your dog is suited for kayaking is the same as it is for making sure your kayak is suited for dogs. The good news is that you can practice with your dog in safe environments and build up to kayaking if you do not have a boat personality right away.
What Kayaking Gear is Necessary for Your Dog?
You need a few essentials to stay safe and sound on the water, but what about your dog? He may not have to bring a change of clothes, but he needs to eat, drink, sleep, play and have a few items in his emergency kit. Let’s look at them.
- Leash and harness
- Life vest
- Toys Dog toys
- Medical essentials
- Food and water
What Types Of Kayaks Are Not Suitable For Dogs?
Some kayaks are a dream for humans, but not for dogs. let’s have a list of them:
Sea Kayaks
Whitewater Kayaks
inflatable kayaks are not on the list. You might be wondering, but I wouldn’t blame you.
Can a dog ride in an inflatable kayak?
Yes! There’s no reason for you to worry about air kayaks being unsafe or shoddy. There have been significant improvements in manufacturing technologies and ergonomics all over, which have led to a much more pleasurable kayak-ing experience.
Should my dog wear a lifejacket or a floating device?
If you are going to be in a boat or on a dock, your dog should wear a lifejacket.
Verdict
In the end, it can be concluded that kayaking with canines can be a great bonding time & memorable experience for both canines and their owners. Dogs & the water are a wonderful pair thrown in the kayaks & pet parents have got an enjoyable day of dog bonding. Moreover, a canine in a kayak is cute but it is also a perfect learning experience for him as it teaches balance, patience & much more. So stick to the above-reviewed top-selling products and you will never be disappointed.
