Nick White

Nick White || 1 May, 2023

The merits of standup paddle boarding (SUPing) as an effective and fun cross-training modality are almost criminally undersold. Aside from the core strengthening and stability work, it is a fantastic full-body workout and meditative practice. Like most things, SUPing can be more enjoyable with a training partner, specifically dogs. Knowing these safety tips and tricks is essential for a great time out on the water if you bring your four-legged pal.

Getting Started:

First and foremost, you will need a SUP to paddle board, and you should be comfortable with your maneuverability. Experience dictates that pups shift and move about the place even when comfortable being out on the water. For this reason, the user’s skill level needs to be nearly proficient in all ways. This also means that a wider board will be better (a 30- to 34-inch range is a good start). Wide boards are more stable, there is more room for your dog to shift about, and they limit the probability of dumping the board. There are many great (and environmentally friendly) brands, such as Surftech, Glide, Starboard, and Solace SUP, to name a few. Of course, a suitable second-hand SUP will work just as well, and you can always stop into your local surf, SUP, or kayak shop if you need help deciding which board is best for you. If you rent a board, ensure that it is okay to bring your pup, some companies have strict rules against dogs riding on their SUPs.

Gear up:

It is essential to have the right gear when SUPing with your pup. Here is a comprehensive list.

Personal Flotation Device(s): Both you and your dog should wear PFD (puppy flotation device) when out on the water. As with human PFD, you’ll want to ensure that the flotation device fits well and is of a reputable brand such as Ruffwear, LL Bean, or Outward Hound. Here is a link to the Boat U.S. Foundation canine PFD sizing information. 

A Leash For You, A Leash For Me: You will want a standard SUP leash for yourself, but remember one for Scout. A standard four-foot leash will be sufficient to make. There are a few things to keep in mind, though.

1. Always leash your dog at PFD, never the collar.

2. Do not tie your dog to the board.

3. Finally, but no less critical, if there is any significant current, it is probably not a good idea to leash your dog.

Treats: We will get into training your dog to make your time together SUPing more enjoyable, but keeping a few of Rufus’ treats in your pocket is always a good idea.

Fresh Water: Being in the sun for extended periods can dehydrate humans or dogs. Especially if you are on a lake with little shade, bring water for both of you.

Training:

Remember teaching your dogs commands such as ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ ‘roll over,’ and ‘fetch my foam roller’? The same goes for your dog, just as you had to learn how to SUP. The SUP is an entirely new environment for your pup, so try your best to be patient when they are learning.

Let Your Dog Get To Know The Board: Allow Polly time to build familiarity with the board on land. Consider putting treats on and around the board. Please don’t push your compatriot, though; let them explore independently.

Practice in Shallow Water: Before you venture into the middle of the lake, waterway, ocean, canal, or river, what have you. You will want to give both your dog and yourself to get used to the activity. How it feels, embarking and disembarking. It may take a few times, but time spent in this phase will be worthwhile.

Rewards: Always reward your pup for good behavior. Treats and praise will reinforce good behaviors, while your dog will eventually phase out undesirable behaviors.

A “Ruff” ‘How To Guide:

Firstly, You want to get on the SUP while your dog stays ashore. Then only when you are at a safe distance and feel stable, smile and wave. The show of confidence tells Bennie that all is good. Next, you’ll want to dismount the board and walk it to shallow water. Call your pup over and praise them. When ready, boost yourself and your dog onto the board. Kneel on the SUP and paddle with Dexter between your legs. This will help you both get used to the paddle. When you are ready, stand with small dogs in the middle of the board at the nose and medium to large dogs between your legs or in the back third. 

Tips and Tricks: 

Don’t Push the Envelope: While it may be tempting not to, it is crucial to stay comfortable. Remember, you could be jeopardizing your safety by pushing it and risking your dog’s health and safety. Stick to what your skill and comfort levels dictate, keeping to shorter distances when first starting.

Only Paddle At Quite Times or in Low-traffic Areas: Let’s face it, Snoopy is most likely going to want to go for a swim, so don’t be surprised if he jumps off. However, the last thing you want for your furry friend is for them to be in a sticky traffic situation. You wouldn’t let them walk into a busy street. You will want to avoid “off” hours and days and heavily trafficked areas. 

Be Patient: Dogs can be frustrating, but patience is paramount. It does no amount of good to get upset at little Moose for not getting it right off the bat. You are just turning what could be a rewarding and memorable adventure into something unenviable and bleak.

Be confident: Remember that dogs are keen observers of human emotion. If you are anxious, they will tend to be as well. So, relax! Have fun and enjoy the time you can spend on the water with Rover.

Be Prepared: Some dogs like to swim and jump off the board; you must be prepared to keep Newton’s first law of motion in mind. If you get dumped off your SUP, remember that you and your dog have life preservers. Locate Betty, your board, and the paddle, and get back on.