Is there anything better than spending a day on the water with your dog? Paddle boarding with your pup is an unforgettable way to bond, get active, and enjoy the outdoors together. But before you head out, it’s important to be prepared.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from choosing the right paddle board to training tips, safety gear, and how to make your dog comfortable on the water.

• It’s an awesome way to exercise together

• Dogs love being part of your adventures

• SUP builds trust and strengthens your bond

• It’s a fun challenge for both of you

Whether you’re exploring lakes, calm bays, or slow-moving rivers, paddle boarding with your dog opens up a whole new world of adventure.

Before hitting the water, ask yourself:

• Does your dog listen to basic commands (sit, stay, come)?

• Are they comfortable around water or wearing a life jacket?

• Will they stay calm on a moving surface?

Start with short sessions on land or in shallow water to build confidence. Not every dog will love SUP right away, and that’s okay. The key is patience — let them progress at their own pace.

Training is what makes the difference between a stressful day and an amazing one. Take it step by step:

Let your dog sniff and sit on the board while it’s on solid ground. Use treats and praise so they associate it with positivity. You can even feed them meals on the board to build familiarity.

Sit or kneel on the board with your dog so they get used to the idea of sharing space. Shift your weight slightly to mimic the feeling of being on the water.

Move the board into calm, shallow water. Practice loading and unloading from shore. Let your dog hop off, swim around, and climb back on. This teaches them that the board is a safe, fun place to return to.

Keep the first real paddles short — 5–10 minutes. End on a positive note with praise or a treat. As your pup gains confidence, gradually increase time and distance.

💡 Tip: Always reward calm behavior. If your dog gets nervous, take a break and reset. Training is about building trust, not rushing progress.

👉 If you’re brand new to SUP yourself, start with our Beginner’s Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding for step-by-step basics.

Look for these features in a dog-friendly SUP:

• Wide and stable (at least 32” wide)

• Full-length deck pad for traction

• Inflatable SUPs are ideal — softer for paws and easier to store

• High weight capacity to support both you and your dog

👉 The Glide O2 Retro is a perfect dog-friendly SUP: stable, durable, and easy to clean after a sandy-pawed adventure.

Curious about board types? Compare options in our guide: Inflatable vs. Hard Paddle Boards.

• Dog Life Jacket: Always use a well-fitted, padded PFD with a handle for lifting.

• Non-slip deck pad: Protects paws and helps with grip.

• Leash and collar: Never tie your dog to the board, but keep one on for safety during breaks.

• Water and treats: Hydration and reward training matter.

• Dry bag: Carry poop bags, snacks, your phone, and a towel.

• Portable ramp or mat for easier loading

• Blanket or towel for comfort on the deck

• Floating toys for water-loving pups

Safety for you and your pup should always come first:

• Start in calm, shallow water

• Keep sessions short and build up gradually

• Always wear a leash (for you) and PFD (for both)

• Avoid offshore wind, strong currents, or boat traffic

• Watch for sharp rocks, debris, or hot surfaces on the shore

• Take breaks for swimming, hydration, and rest

👉 For more tips, read: Beginner Paddle Board Mistakes to Avoid.

Most dogs can learn to SUP, but these breeds tend to excel thanks to their adventurous spirit and love of water:

• Labradors & Golden Retrievers

• Border Collies

• Vizslas

• Australian Shepherds

• Poodles and Doodles

That said, paddle boarding is more about personality and training than breed. A small terrier with confidence can love SUP just as much as a retriever.

Paddle boarding with your dog is about more than just exercise — it’s about adventure, trust, and shared experience. With the right board, a bit of patience, and proper gear, you and your pup can safely enjoy the water together.

Think of each paddle as an opportunity to strengthen your bond. Dogs thrive when they’re included in our adventures, and SUP allows them to be right at your side. Every time your pup hops on the board, learns to stay balanced, or curls up on the deck for a mid-paddle nap, they’re learning to trust you in a new way. That sense of teamwork deepens the connection between you and makes each outing more rewarding.

There are also incredible health benefits for both of you. Paddle boarding is a fantastic low-impact workout that engages your core, legs, arms, and balance. For dogs, it’s a blend of light exercise, fresh air, and mental stimulation — all of which contribute to a longer, healthier life. A happy, tired dog is a well-behaved dog, and many owners find that SUP days lead to calmer, more content pups at home.

Beyond health and bonding, paddle boarding together gives you a new lens on adventure. Imagine gliding across a mountain lake at sunrise with your dog’s ears catching the breeze, or exploring hidden inlets where only a SUP can go. These experiences create memories that stick with you both — the kind of moments you’ll look back on years later with a smile.

Of course, not every session will be perfect. You’ll probably both wobble, maybe fall in, and learn to laugh it off. That’s part of the magic — SUP teaches resilience and playfulness, reminding you that it’s the journey, not perfection, that matters most.

So if you’ve been wondering whether paddle boarding with your dog is worth trying, the answer is a resounding yes. Start slow, keep things positive, and celebrate every small success along the way. With consistency and care, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your pup adapts and how naturally SUP becomes a part of your life together.

👉 Want to take your balance even further? Try Paddleboard Yoga.

👉 Looking for packing tips? Here’s: What to Bring on a Paddle Boarding Adventure.

👉 Ready to shop? Explore our dog-friendly inflatable paddle boards.