Paddleboarding with Your Dog: How to Teach Your Dog to Paddleboard
Summer is the perfect time to embark on adventures with your four-legged friend. And what could be more exciting and adventurous than paddleboarding with your loyal companion on the board in front of you? SUP or paddleboarding with a dog has become increasingly popular as a fun and challenging summer activity. It allows you to enjoy the sun, nature, and the calming water while building a stronger bond with your dog. In this article, we will go through the steps that will help your dog get accustomed to SUP and the wonderful benefits this activity will bring to both you and your faithful companion.
Guide: Getting your dog used to the paddleboard step by step
Introducing your dog to SUP and paddleboarding requires patience, positive reinforcement, and gradual training. Here are the steps you should follow:
1. Getting to know the board on land
Before heading out on the water, let your dog familiarize her/himself with the board on land. Let your dog explore and step onto the board when he/she feels comfortable. Reward with treats and praise when your dog looks content and relaxed.
2. Train your dog to stand on the board
Train your dog to place all four paws on the board while on land. Guide your dog into position with a treat or toy. Say "Step up" and reward your dog when she/he steps onto the board and remains still. End by saying "Get off" and guide your dog to step back on to land. Repeat this step until your dog feels comfortable standing on the board.
3. build your dog's balance with simple exercises
To help your dog feel secure on the board, you can practise balance exercises. Gently move the board from side to side or back and forth while your dog is standing on it. This helps your dog develop balance and build confidence. Praise and reward when your dog follows the movements and looks happy and at ease.
4. First water contact: practicing in shallow water
Once your dog is comfortable standing on the board on land, it's time to introduce her/him to shallow water. Start in calm waters and let your dog stand on the board while you hold it still. Praise and reward to encourage a calm behavior on the board. Use motivating rewards that keep your dog calm and prevent excitement. Use your cues "Step up" and "Get off" for control. Advance by practising the same way but while you sit on the board.
5. Gradual introduction: Start paddling with your dog
When your dog is comfortable on the board, you can begin introducing paddling. Start in shallow water and paddle gently back and forth. Gradually increase the time and intensity as your dog becomes more accustomed to the movement and water. Reward and praise your dog when she/he maintain a calm and balanced behavior.
Benefits of paddle boarding with your dog
Paddleboarding with your dog offers a range of benefits for both you and your furry friend, physically and as a relationship boost:
1. Stay fit together by paddling
Paddleboarding is a fantastic form of exercise that engages the whole body for both you and your dog. It strengthens muscles, improves balance, and increases endurance. It's a fun way to stay active and fit together. You may want to strengthen your relationship further with an adventure, read Dog adventures - enriching dog life for inspiration.
2. Improve cooperation and communication with your dog
Paddleboarding requires cooperation between you and your dog. By training and paddling together, you enhance your communication and strengthen your relationship. You learn to follow each other's signals and work together to maintain balance and navigate on the water.
3. Boost your dog's courage and confidence
Introducing your dog to new environments and challenges on the paddleboard boosts her/his self-confidence and courage!
4. Create memorable adventures with your dog
Paddling with your dog allows you to create unforgettable summer memories and experience new adventures together. Explore lakes, rivers, and coastlines while enjoying the scenic surroundings with your best friend by your side. So give it a try! Experience the magic of summer on the water. Explore new waterways and embark on a paddleboarding adventure with your loyal companion. If you want to swap the paddleboard for a boat, read more about how to make boating safe and secure for your dog: Boating etiquette for dogs.
Written by: Caroline Alupo
Caroline Alupo is Petli's co-founder. She has a master's degree in ethology and is also a trained dog trainer and dog psychologist. She has 19 years of experience as a professional dog trainer. Read more about Caroline here.
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