Paddleboarding for the First Time with Your Dog: Step-by-Step Guide
Taking your dog on your first paddleboarding adventure can be exciting, but it helps to take it step by step. A little preparation makes the experience safer and more enjoyable for both of you.
Step 1: Prepare Your Gear
Before hitting the water, make sure you have all the essentials: your SUP board, a life jacket for your dog, a leash, treats, water, and a deck pad, like the MOAI Dog Pad. The deck pad is essential for a safe and comfortable experience—it provides a slip-resistant surface for your dog and helps protect your board from scratches or wear. Check that the board is stable and free of any slippery spots.
Want to learn more about protecting your SUP? Read this blog.
Step 2: Introduce Your Dog to the Board
Start on dry land. Let your dog sniff and explore the board at their own pace. Encourage them to step on it and reward calm behavior with treats. Some dogs may be hesitant at first, so patience is key. You can try gently guiding one paw onto the board, then rewarding them, and gradually encouraging them to climb fully aboard. Repeating this on several occasions will help your dog associate the board with positive experiences.
Step 3: Start on Calm Water
Choose a calm lake, pond, or a shallow area with minimal current. Keep the board close to the shore so your dog can step off if needed. Hold the board steady and help your dog onto the deck pad. Stay close to the dog in case they get nervous. Allow your dog to feel the water under their paws and get used to the gentle rocking motion. This helps reduce anxiety before venturing further from shore.
Step 4: Practice Sitting and Balancing
Once your dog is comfortable on the board, encourage them to sit or lie down on the deck pad. Stand beside the board first, then try paddling slowly while they remain in position. Practice turning and small movements so your dog gets used to balance shifts. Keep sessions short at first, gradually increasing as your dog gains confidence. Always use treats and praise to reinforce calm behavior.
Step 5: Short Rides and Breaks
Keep your first rides brief, around 5–10 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable. Take frequent breaks on the shore to let your dog stretch, drink water, and relax. Watch their body language carefully—panting, whining, or pawing at the water can indicate stress. Short, positive sessions build confidence and make paddleboarding an enjoyable activity rather than a stressful one.
Step 6: Positive Reinforcement
Always reward calm behavior with treats, praise, or petting. Using a calm, encouraging voice helps your dog understand that being on the board is safe and fun. Avoid scolding or forcing your dog onto the board, as this can create fear and make future paddleboarding trips difficult. Over time, your dog will begin to enjoy the experience and may even look forward to it as part of your outdoor adventures.
Enjoy Your First Adventure Together
Paddleboarding with your dog is a great way to bond and enjoy the outdoors. By taking it step by step and using essential tools like a deck pad, you create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog. With patience, positive reinforcement, and short practice sessions, your dog will quickly gain confidence, making every paddleboarding trip a fun adventure for both of you.
