Come summer, your dog wants to spend as much time outside as you do, and while a trip to the dog park or a walk around the block provides some brief entertainment, spending time on the water gives you and your pup a chance to bond and get exercise. After evaluating dozens of different options and relying on our experience as dog owners, we selected the Breeze Aero as the best paddle board for dogs overall, thanks to its stable, durable deck. For large dogs, we like the Rackham Aero and for an affordable board that’s less than $200 on Amazon, the AquaQuest 320 is your best bet.
To narrow down our options, we considered several factors including size, materials, weight capacity, latching points and durability. Paddle boards for dogs aren’t designed specifically for dogs, but they do offer features that dogs and their owners can appreciate. Whether you’re setting your water-loving lab up with a dedicated diving platform or taking your puppy on the water for the first time, we’ve got your covered. Below, see the best paddle boards for dogs.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted gear team is passionate about all things outdoors, and that’s especially true when we bring our four-legged friends along for the ride. We love talking about products at the intersection of adventure and fitness (and dogs), whether we’re covering kayaks for dogs or doggy backpacks that let them carry their own gear.
- Forbes Vetted contributor Bailey Berg has extensive experience testing and evaluating outdoor equipment, particularly when it comes to water sports. As a former collegiate rower, she spends as much time on the water as possible, and has covered a slew of dog-related topics for Forbes Vetted.
- This guide and its updates are overseen by gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who can frequently be found outdoors testing equipment on and off the beaten path to gain insights into materials, features and design principles. While editing this guide, he paid specific attention to board dimensions, materials and additional features, all of which should accommodate a canine companion.
- This guide is updated regularly to provide accurate, reliable information that helps you make a more informed decision. We want our recommendations to provide you and your pup with a safe, memorable time on the water, and the information here is a direct reflection of that. Whether we’re updating our board recommendations or providing additional buying information, we’ll always let you know what’s new, and what we’ve changed to improve this guide along the way.
How We Chose The Best Paddle Boards For Dogs
Choosing the best paddle boards for dogs was a multi-step process that included:
- Real-World Testing: My dogs have been my on-the-water co-pilots for years, so I understand what makes a paddle boarding trip both fun and safe for furry companions. That hands-on experience helped me choose the best paddle boards to meet my needs and theirs as I assessed features, build quality, materials and more.
- Expertise In Gear Testing: With years of experience testing various water sports equipment and dog gear, I applied my rigorous standards to this guide. I know what to look for in terms of performance, durability and overall quality, ensuring that these recommendations are top-notch.
- Key Considerations: When choosing a paddle board for dogs, I focused on the essential factors: stability, ample space, durability and safety features like non-slip surfaces. These criteria helped me identify the best paddle boards that prioritize canine comfort and safety.
- Comprehensive Testing And Research: I hit the water with numerous paddle boards to evaluate their performance with dogs on board. For those I couldn’t personally test, I thoroughly examined user reviews and analyzed specifications to ensure these recommendations are accurate and reliable.
What To Look For In The Best Paddle Boards For Dogs
Stability
Stability is the most crucial factor when choosing a paddle board for you and your dog. Dogs have a habit of moving around a lot, especially if they enjoy the water or don’t have previous experience on a board, so a stable platform is essential. A paddle board with a width of at least 32 inches will offer better stability, and long boards will track straighter with more speed.
Traction
A good traction pad is vital for your dog’s comfort and safety. Dogs need a surface that provides grip to prevent slipping, especially when the deck gets wet. High-quality, non-slip deck pads made from EVA foam are ideal, and some boards come with full-length deck pads, which provide ample space for your dog to move around without slipping.
Weight Capacity
Ensure a paddle board can support the weight of you and your dog. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the board’s weight capacity and consider whether or not you intend to bring gear aboard. Keep in mind that it’s always better to have a little extra weight to spare to ensure stability and safety.
Durability
Dogs can be tough on equipment, so a durable paddle board is a must. Look for boards made from high-quality materials, such as military-grade PVC for inflatable boards or durable epoxy for hard boards. Reinforced rails and seams add extra durability to withstand your dog’s nails and rough play.
Attachment Points
Having D-rings and attachment points on the board is useful for securing your dog’s leash or attaching other accessories like a bungee cord for extra gear. These features can help keep your dog safe and your belongings secure while paddling.
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