Paddle Boarding with Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

by Coastal Paddle Boards April 20, 2026

Paddle boarding with your dog is genuinely one of the best things you can do on the water. Most dogs take to it surprisingly quickly, and the combination of fresh air, exercise, and quality time together is hard to beat.

Here is how to do it safely and make it enjoyable for both of you.

Is Your Dog Suited to It?

Most dogs can learn to enjoy paddle boarding, but some take to it more naturally than others. Confident, water-loving dogs tend to adapt quickly. Anxious or nervous dogs may need more time and patience.

Age matters too. Young puppies and very old dogs may not have the balance or stamina for it. Healthy adult dogs are the best candidates.

Start on Land

Before you get near the water, let your dog get comfortable with the board on dry land. Lay the board flat on the ground and let your dog sniff it, walk on it, and sit on it. Reward calm behaviour with treats. This step is worth taking seriously. A dog that is comfortable on the board on land will be much easier to manage on the water.

Introduce the Water Gradually

Start in very shallow, calm water. Wade in with the board and let your dog follow at their own pace. Do not force them onto the board. Let them choose to get on when they feel ready.

Once they are comfortable standing on the board in shallow water, try paddling a short distance. Keep the first sessions short and positive.

Where to Position Your Dog

Most dogs do best sitting or lying in front of you, between the nose of the board and the centre handle. This keeps their weight centred and gives you room to paddle. Some dogs prefer to sit right at the nose, which is fine as long as the board is stable enough to handle the weight distribution.

A wider board is much more stable with a dog on board. Our Salcombe Seeker at 31 inches wide is a good choice for paddling with a medium to large dog.

Safety Essentials

Always fit your dog with a canine life jacket, even if they are a strong swimmer. Exhaustion and cold water can affect even the most confident water dogs.
Wear your own leash at all times.
Keep sessions short at first and build up gradually.
Bring fresh water for your dog. Salt water is not safe for dogs to drink.
Check that the location allows dogs before you launch. Many beaches have seasonal dog restrictions.

What to Bring

A canine life jacket
Fresh water and a collapsible bowl
Treats for positive reinforcement
A dry bag for your phone and keys
A towel for your dog after the session
A changing mat for getting changed on the beach without getting sandy

Tips for a Good Session

Choose calm, sheltered water for your first sessions together
Keep the first few sessions short, 20 to 30 minutes is plenty
Let your dog set the pace. If they want to get off, let them.
Bring plenty of treats and make the whole experience positive
Accept that you will get wet. Dogs move around, and that is part of the fun.

Get the Right Board

A wider, more stable board makes paddling with a dog much easier. Browse our paddle board range and accessories to get set up for your next adventure together.