From Dog Paddling to Dog Paddleboarding: A Stand Up Water Sport You Can Share
The author with her co-captain, Rookie, hanging out in the Bay.
One of the first things I did when I got my dog, Rookie, was to take him stand up paddleboarding with me. He was 10 weeks old at the time and slept safely on my back in a backpack as I paddled from Sausalito to Tiburon. I realize this wouldn’t be every new dog owner’s dream, but I believe that early experience, just feeling the way the board balances and the sound of the waves, helped make Rookie a true water pup who is always comfortable on the water.
Like any responsible human, I started Rookie’s introduction to paddleboarding slowly. I had a surfboard on the patio at home where I’d put treats. Rookie would jump up and eat them and before long he’d just sit on the board waiting for a treat. I got him completely comfortable with the board on land first before I started placing him on the board in the water, and, of course, I bought him the smallest life vest I could find. I let him walk around on the dock before we paddled, getting used to the texture and proximity of the water, and again after we paddled. In what seemed like no time at all, he was happy to hop on my board for a new adventure.
Rookie and I now live on a boat and when I put the paddleboard on the water he will jump right on even if I’m not aboard yet. It’s a joy to share my love of the water with such an enthusiastic companion.
I’ve been stand up paddleboarding for over 10 years now. It’s a great sport under any conditions, but especially during the pandemic, because you can socially distance and still enjoy the outdoors. Not only is it a terrific workout, but it’s a relaxing way to take in nature. And as Rookie proves, with the right introduction and training, it’s also a sport you can share with your dog.
Dogs love being with us, dogs love being outside, and many dogs love the water. For a water-friendly dog, paddleboarding is like the best car ride ever. The humans are doing all the work while they get to breeze along, sniffing wonderful new scents they never smell on land.
Baby Rookie checking out the paddleboard
Together, Rookie and I get to venture out on warm summer days and float: see land from a different perspective, take in the sea lions, and view other water life on the Bay. We can paddle to a park and get off the board for him to run around. Then, it’s back on the board to paddle home, after a fine day of socially distanced exploring.
Want to get started stand up paddleboarding with your dog? Here’s how.
First, start by training yourself. Take a class on stand up paddleboarding to learn how to safely paddle and get comfortable on the board using the right size paddle. Next, be sure you’re using a board that is stable and comfortable for you and your dog. Many board rental places will rent boards to you and will help you choose the right board for you and your pup. Boards can be slippery when wet so be sure there is some sort of mat or traction for your dog so he won’t slip off. Of course, you’ll both need personal flotation devices (PFD).
Practice at home and on land first. Get your dog thoroughly used to the board, the paddle, and the PFDs. Make sure your dog understands he must sit and stay and not run around on the board. Also, use special words for your dog so he knows when to get on and off the board. As you’re training, give him lots of treats for being near the board, on the board, and even just looking at the board. Once he’s completely comfortable on land, then you’re ready for the next step.
Take your board, dog, PDFs, and many treats to the dock. Let him walk around on the dock, sniff the water, and become thoroughly comfortable before inviting him to sit on the board with you on the dock, rewarding each step liberally with treats and praise. If that goes well, you’re ready to go through the same steps again, this time with the board on the water, again rewarding him with plenty of treats and praise.
Just as with any training or socialization, it’s important to go at your dog’s pace. If your dog is showing stress or seems anxious, call it a day and try again another time. It’s only fun if it’s fun for both of you so never force your pup no matter how great a time you think he should be having.
And, of course, whenever you’re on the water, make sure you and your dog are both wearing your personal flotation devices. It’s the law, but it also gives you a handy way to grab your dog to lift him back onto the board if he slips off or to reposition him on your board.
For Rookie and me, paddling has become a great bonding activity, a way to spend time together doing what we both love. Not all dogs are born water pups, but if you’re looking for a sport to share, why not give paddleboarding a try with your own furry friend?
We’ll be looking for you on the water!