Best Kayaks for Dogs in 2024

Best Kayaks for Dogs in 2023

I started kayaking with my dog when I was 20 because it just happened. Our family’s German Shepherd, Jini, joined me in our sit-on-top Pungo kayak as I got in on the dock.

Jini went to the front, put herself in the same position as crossing the Delaware River, smiled at me, and we were off.

Jini and I swam in the lake all summer, picked raspberries, shared snacks, swam, and went to see friends. It was a catch.

Things have changed a lot since 2002, and so has the industry. I used to bring an extra children’s lifejacket with me in case I had to save someone, but now my dog Frances has her own PFD (personal flotation device) with a strong handle and a fit that is good for dogs.

Back in the day, our pets sat on an old beach towel. Now, I see people with high-tech dog kayak seats, porthole covers, sunshades, custom-built puppy platforms, and more.

I’ve spent more than 25 years kayaking with my dogs (and cats), and I’ve gathered all the best information I’ve learned into this ultimate guide to kayaking with your dog. It includes:

• Easy-to-learn training so your dog can be safe on the water and have as much fun as you do.
• How to stay safe if your boat capsizes or your dog jumps in
• Here are some of the best dog kayaks available right now

Step 1. Determine if your dog is ready to kayak with you

Before you take your dog out to do anything with water, you should ensure they have the skills and training to stay safe.

Consider the following:

• Is my dog comfortable in and near water?
• How about my dog? (They don’t have to wear life jackets, but it’s a good idea.)
• Will my dog be okay with a PFD or life jacket?
• Does my dog listen when I tell him to “sit,” “stay,” and “go to your place?”
• Can my dog ignore exciting things like other kayaks, ducks, seals, floating sticks, or other boats without jumping in the water to go after them?

If you can answer yes to these questions, your dog will do well in a kayak.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dog for Kayaking

Your dog can try out your kayak in a neutral place to get a better feel.

The kayak should be in a yard or park where your dog can sniff, walk around, and even play near it.

Taking your dog kayaking is fun and not too hard. If your dog can sit still in a car, it probably won’t take them more than a few minutes to an hour to learn how to sit in a kayak.

You can get your dog interested in kayaking by following these tips:

• Your dog can find small treats inside the kayak if you hide them.
• Treat your dog whenever it goes to the kayak, or praise it.
• Pet your dog when it comes to say hello.
• You can pet your dog while you kayak or give them treats and praise.

Once your dog learns that the word “kayak” means “fun,” you can move on.

Step 3: Practicing helpful commands

The key commands you’ll use are pretty simple, but you should make sure your dog knows how to safely board and get off a boat when you’re on or near the water.

Here’s what Frankie and I worked on before we left:

It’s time to get in your spot

I say this to Frances to tell her to go to her place.

My kayak is a “sit on top” kayak, so Frances sits or lays down on the flat front of the kayak. Provide a familiar blanket or towel for them to ride on while they learn.

You might have to show your dog where to go the first few times, but you’re good to go once they’re used to it. When they are in the right place, you can tell them to “sit” or “stay” to remind them.

It’s all good.

This command tells your dog they can jump out of the kayak if you are close to shore.

It also tells your dog that they can jump in and swim. To help your dog get better, whenever it is about to jump out of the kayak, shout “Okay!” before they do. Then give a treat, a pat, or some praise.

Practice the first two commands with your dog several times, getting them on and off the kayak (or in and out if you have cockpits).

Let’s leave it!

This is an important command to ensure your dog doesn’t get too interested in something exciting, like a pod of dolphins.

Ensure you’re in charge of what draws their attention and that you’re ready to break their gaze if necessary to keep them from jumping out of the kayak.

Get on your back.

Depending on the weather and where you’re kayaking, you may run into waves or rough water.

When this happens, I tell Frankie, “Lay down!” in a very direct way. This is also what I say when there are a lot of ducks or seagulls.

It lets her know that she can no longer walk around. When there is no danger, I pet her and tell her, “Good girl!” to let her know everything is okay.

Optional: “Get in the water.”

If you want your dog to be able to swim while you’re out, you can tell it to jump in by giving it a command.

Just make sure they remember how to get back in. Some medium-sized and larger dogs can get out of the water independently, but they might not be able to if they are tired.

Because of this, you should always wear a lifejacket or PFD with a strong handle on the back to pull them out.

When it’s time to get back on board, I say, “SUP!” because Frances already knows that command from paddleboarding.

We also say, “Get in the boat!” because that’s what we say when we’re on a boat. ” OFF!” means getting back on the boat.

Frankie always has to be pulled back into the kayak by me. She can’t do it alone because it’s too slippery, so the handle on the lifejacket helps.

Step 4: Test-drive at the water’s edge

Now that your dog knows the basics take your kayak down to the water’s edge so you can practice getting in and out of it.

The entry point to the water may be from a dock or a beach, depending on your location. First, get in the kayak, and do not move until both of you are in.

Your dog will feel better if you’re there with them while they get used to the sudden movement and strange feeling of floating.

Don’t be surprised if you have to try this step more than once. Many dogs jump right out when you push off the first few times.

But if your dog starts to get scared, praise them, cuddle them, and try again another day so they don’t think of the kayak as scary and dangerous.

Access points to the beach and exit points

• Place your kayak half-in/half-out of the water, then tell your dog to find its spot. You can use it as a plank for sit-on-top kayaks and dog seats.

They may need to jump into their seat from the water for sit-inside kayaks. If you don’t want them to be wet while you’re out kayaking, you can always lift them in, but they’ll dry out quickly on the water anyway, so I don’t usually worry about it unless it’s a cold day.

• Ensure you and your dog are seated before you push off. The sudden jolt of launching from the beach is easier to handle if your dog is lying down and you’re there to reassure them.
• Take the kayak out a few feet, paddle in the shallows, then turn around and return to the beach.
• If you don’t mind your dog jumping in the water, let them know it’s okay to go. If you want them to stay dry, you can get out first, lift them, and put them on shore. I just let Frances jump out and splash around because she loves it, and my Subaru is full of sand anyway!

Dock Entry & Exit

1. Bring your kayak to the edge of the dock and get in. Your dog wants to be with you, so if you’re already in the kayak, this will encourage them to take that first step.
2. Once in, hold the dock tightly, pulling your kayak right up next to it so there isn’t a gap.
3. Your dog should get in its spot. It’s a simple step from the dock to their sit-on-top kayak and dog seats. Sit-inside kayaks may require some maneuvering to get in.
4. Push off the dock with your paddle when your dog has fallen asleep.
5. Paddle around near the dock, then turn around and come back.
6. Again, sidle up the dockside and hold tightly, then let your dog know it’s okay to disembark. They’ll usually leap right out onto the dock, easy-peasy!

It’s good to have a leash on hand so that when you and your dog go outside, you can clip the dog to the leash and keep them close.

Keep the dog close. You don’t want your dog to be able to jump into the water while on a leash.

Leashing your dog in a kayak is dangerous, so save the leash for the shore.

Step 5: Head Out into Nature!

Once you’re sure your dog is ready for a longer trip, it’s time to enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Our national beaches, lakes, coastlines, and waterways are all beautiful and unique places you and your dog will love.

From traveling and being in nature with Frankie, I’ve learned that our pets and all animals enjoy nature as much as we do.

We all live on this planet together and enjoy the beauty around us.

Because so many of our waterways are home to endangered and protected species, it’s important to make sure you and your dog are safe. Remember that sharing the space with plants, animals, birds, and fish is a privilege when you’re out and about.

How to handle a dog who jumps ship

Even the best dog, like Gracie the Dachshund in the video below, can get excited by a seal or a piece of kelp.

Anyone can have this happen to them, so having a pet-friendly life jacket is important. It helps you pull your dog back onto the kayak from the water and gives you more time to rescue them if you need to.

1. Your voice should be calm yet firm if your dog jumps out of a kayak without your permission.
2. Tell them to “get in the boat” as you paddle towards them.
3. When you reach the water, lean over and grab your dog by the lifejacket handle.
4. To keep your dog from falling into the water, lay down your oar, reach down, and pull your dog parallel to the kayak. Sooth them a bit with your soothing voice.
5. Put your arm across their back and hook around under their front legs so you can get a grip and scoop them back onboard or at least get them high enough out of the water so that they’re able to scramble back on.

Once your dog has returned to the boat, reward it with a treat and praise it.

They’re thinking about how close they came to drowning and not about how they jumped off the boat without permission, so reassure them that they did the right thing by coming back to you.

After this, some dogs will be pretty much done with kayaking. People will simply ignore it and keep going as if nothing has happened.

What to Do if You Tip Over

Even the most experienced kayaker can flip, especially if things go wrong simultaneously. One minute, you’re cruising along, enjoying the quiet, and singing a song to your dog about blackberries.

The next, the wake of a speed boat hits you from behind, your dog freaks out, you overcorrect, and everyone goes overboard.

This can also happen when you’re trying to pull your dog out of the water and back onto the kayak, so it’s good to be ready, at least in spirit.

1. Find your dog and bring them close.

2. Swim back to the kayak and stay close to your dog. Use a soothing voice and act like it’s a lot of fun to be in the water with them.

3. If you need to, turn the kayak over again.

4. Find your paddle and put it back in the kayak or on it. Try to put it somewhere where it won’t just roll back off.

5. Put your dog’s paws on the kayak and push them back onto the boat. Take a deep breath. Pet your dog and tell it everything is okay. They might be worried that you’re in the water and they’re not. If your dog is wearing a lifejacket, you can pull them out by its handle. I prefer to know my dog is safe on board so I don’t have to worry.

6. Get back in the kayak by pulling yourself in. Although it takes some effort, putting on a life jacket will keep you afloat. I’ve never been able to do this move with style, so I always have to take off my lifejacket, throw it on board, and then get back up by throwing myself across the middle and pulling myself up by the far side. (It’s not beautiful, but it works!)

If you can’t pull yourself back into the kayak, swim it back to the dock or beach. Suppose you’re too far from the shore to swim back safely. Wave a flag for help.

If no one is around to help, start kicking!

For a kayak where you sit inside, it might be easier to get back in first and then pull your dog on board.

In shallow water, you should try to capsize so that you’re prepared in case it happens. You don’t have to throw your dog overboard.

In chest-deep water, turn your kayak upside down, and bring your dog along or have him swim to you and do the moves with you.

How to bring your dog kayaking

You don’t need to bring much stuff if you’ll just paddle around and won’t be out long. However, just in case, having a ziplock bag of snacks, a bowl, and fresh drinking water is always good.

Here’s what I bring on trips that last more than 30 minutes:

It is the best dog kayak on the market

When it comes to styles and kinds of kayaks, a select few consistently come out on top.

There are single-person kayaks with enough surface area for an animal, but tandem kayaks are best for paddling with a pet.

Therefore, there is a kayak that is suitable for you and your dog, whether you’re traveling downstream, across a glassy lake, or along a rough saltwater coastline.

Listed below are my top picks for canine-friendly kayaks:

A good all-around kayak is: 

1. Malibu Two-Tandem Ocean Kayak

No products found.

Tandem Ocean Kayak Malibu

The most well-liked tandem sit-on-top kayak in the world, the Malibu Two from Ocean Kayak routinely ranks at the top with dog owners.

The Malibu Two is the perfect kayak for ocean and freshwater paddling because it is small and lightweight.

It comfortably fits up to two individuals and numerous combinations of adults, children, large and small dogs, and even cats.

I adore the adaptable design since it allows you to paddle from the back seat while your dog rides in the front with plenty of room to turn around and lie down.

No of your level of experience, this tandem kayak can accommodate you. It has a tri-hull shape, is stable, and is suitable for calm and moderate waves.

Features of the product:

• Two adjustable Comfort Plus seat backs with extra foam padding • Overlapping foot wells so you can brace your feet comfortably
• Handles on the sides and the bow and stern make moving easy.
• Straps to store gear
• It can hold up to 425 lbs. and weighs 57 lbs.

Is there a better value for your money?

2. Inflatable Kayak for Three People, Sea Eagle 370 Pro

No products found.

When I was a resident of New York City, I possessed this kayak and adored it.

It sold for almost its original price when I took it back to the Pacific Northwest. It maintained its worth for five years, and it is clear why.

The Sea Eagle can be set up and inflated in just 10 minutes and comes with everything you need, including paddles and comfortable seats.

You can be sure that this “blow-up” boat won’t pop because river rafting firms frequently use inflatable kayaks to navigate the rapids.

The Sea Eagle’s spacious floor space, which can accommodate three persons, is another standout feature.

We comfortably paddled down the river with two parents, two young children, a Border Collie, and a Chihuahua, thanks to family friends who let us borrow their kayak.

The following are product features:

• With a three-person capacity, you, a companion, and your pets can all kayak in up to Class III whitewater rapids.
• There are two adjustable, cozy, Deluxe Kayak Seats.
• Totes, paddles, and foot pumps, five luxury 1-way inflation/deflation valves, an open and shut drain valve
• Weight limit: 650 pounds. 26 lbs. According to weight.

Here are the top inflatable kayaks: 

3. Advanced Elements Convertible Inflatable Kayak Advanced Frame

No products found.

If you’re worried about your dog’s nails puncturing the kayak, don’t be! The Advanced Frame Convertible Inflatable Kayak has three layers of material for extreme puncture resistance.

With enough room to fit two adults and a large dog, there’s plenty of space for everyone and supplies.

What’s cool about the Advanced Frame Convertible is that it offers a conversion deck that turns your sit-on-top kayak into a closed hull, which is great for rougher waters since it keeps you much drier.

It also acts as a natural platform for your dog to sit on. Win-win!

Here are some product features:

• It has excellent tracking in the water thanks to integrated aluminum ribs.
• Extremely strong material with three layers resists punctures
• Folds up into a bag of its own (folded dimensions: 35″ x 21″ x 12″).
• Simply unfold, blow up, and attach the seats.
• High-support, adjustable, padded seats provide hours of comfort.
• Max Weight: 550 lbs. Three-seat positions enable single or duet paddling. 52 lbs. in weight.

Pet-friendly single-person kayaks: 

4. Kayak Old Town Vapor 10

No products found.

Old Town’s Vapor kayak has a spacious cockpit opening that offers you room for your dog, even a larger one, and the back cargo bay is a great spot to make a nest where your pet can travel comfortably.

This single-person kayak has more typical surface space than much larger tandem models thanks to its great price range and straightforward construction.

Highlights of the product:

• A molded-in paddle rest, a cockpit tray with a cup holder, and a stern (front) day well for storing goods
• Integrated carry handles, a drain plug, a skid plate, and other features
• only 10 feet long and only 47 lbs.
• Maximum weight: a remarkable 325 lbs.

The Old Town Twister Kayak is a great, similarly priced sit-on-top option. There is enough surface area for one rider and several dogs.

This is an excellent option for novice to intermediate paddlers, measuring 11 feet, weighing only 46 pounds, and costing only $467.49.

Second reviews of the best dog kayaks

1. A budget-friendly option: Pelican Sentinel 100X EXO

No products found.

There is an affordable, flat, padded, lightweight kayak called the Pelican Sentinel 100X EXO.

We appreciate its retractable watertight bag at the stern and adjustable, high back seat. Even the deck surface is made of EVA, ensuring your dog’s comfort.

This open-decked, straightforward kayak is an excellent option for beginners and can easily fit small to medium dogs.

We prefer the open-deck design. A reasonable pricing range.

The low seat position is something we don’t enjoy.

2. Most affordable canine-friendly kayak: Feel Free Juntos

No products found.

The Feel Free Juntos is yet another cost-effective option. Because the Juntos is a roomy, relaxing sit-on-top, we like it.

While this kayak was designed with kids in mind, it can also be used by animals. Ensure your dog enjoys their kayaking experience by perching them in the front jump seat.

In addition, paddling is still very simple. The Juntos offers plenty of storage space below the seat for all your (and your dog’s) belongings.

What we enjoy:

At the bow is a sizable open area. Enough storage. For dragging it across the ground, a towing wheel.

The low seating position is something we dislike. Integrated footrests.

3. Best for hunting or fishing with a dog: NuCanoe Unlimited Kayak

No products found.

The ultimate hunting and fishing machine, Nucanoe Unlimited, is available if you’re prepared to splash out.

We adore the Unlimited for its enormous payload, wide 41-inch hull, and spacious open deck. This kayak can hold 650 lbs., so even the largest dogs will fit inside.

Thanks to the spacious open deck design and storage area, your dog can be at ease while you walk around to hunt.

We appreciate the high capacity. Supportive, elevated seats.

Heavy is something we don’t enjoy. A lot of space to maneuver on land, especially when walking a dog.

4. Most durable inflatable kayak: Sea Eagle 385 fta

No products found.

Do you need a kayak that fits your car’s trunk and accommodates you and your huge dog? We love the inflatable fishing kayak Sea Eagle 385 Fta.

PVC mats and tubes covered in crocodile skin are claw-resistant and non-slip. The plush interior makes lying down for a dog incredibly comfortable.

The Sea Eagle is a fantastic option for large, inquisitive dogs thanks to its enormous 750-pound weight capacity and superb stability.

We admire how tough the tubes and floor are made of crocodile hide.

What we dislike: Steeper sides may make lifting big dogs out of the water more challenging.

5. Crescent Crew is best for big dogs.

No products found.

The kayak The Crescent Crew can accommodate almost everyone. This kayak is lightweight enough to be paddled by one person but can also accommodate children and a dog.

If you have a large dog who enjoys exploring the water, this is a fantastic option as a wide and incredibly stable kayak.

We appreciate the large capacity. Stable. Numerous seating possibilities for paddling alone or in tandem.

We don’t like how heavy this kayak is. Loading and unloading this kayak could be difficult if you only carry kids and pets.

6. One of the best: Jackson YuPik 

No products found.

A large open deck with a high, comfortable seat. Your dog will adore the fishing kayak known as the Yupik.

The entire deck is cushioned for comfort and grip when you stand to cast. On the boat, your dog may wander about without slipping and find a comfy spot almost anywhere.

This boat is ideal for large dogs or serious fishermen who enjoy taking their pets along.

A huge open deck design is something we like. Deck cushioning.

What we don’t like: You must assume your dog is an avid kayaker at this price.

There’s something in the air in Old Town.

This sport kayak is small and has a surprisingly large volume. A straightforward sit-in recreational kayak is the Vapor.

There is a tonne of storage capacity, and the keel line is well-delineated to keep you on course.

Thanks to the spacious cockpit opening, you have plenty of room to share this kayak with your dog.

We enjoy the spacious cockpit.

What we object to:

Given that it is the thinnest kayak on the list, the Vapor might not be the greatest option if your dog is active.

1.370 Sea Eagle

No products found.

An inflatable kayak that can hold two to three people is called the 370. With this bigger capacity, you have room for dogs of all sizes.

Despite being portable and lightweight, this is nonetheless robust enough to handle a dog being on board.

What we like: Portable for getting to those remote lakes. Dogs may comfortably walk on the inflated floor.

What we dislike: large dogs may be difficult to lift back in due to their higher sides.

2. Advanced Elements for Convertible Frames

No products found.

Inflatable sit-in paddles have a semi-rigid frame. This is fantastic news for kayakers who wish to take their dogs on longer outings without the burden of keeping a rigid kayak.

The majority of small and medium dogs fit within with plenty of room. Even by caving in at the bow, they can find some protection.

The kayak we like best: It can travel further than most recreational kayaks. Some weather defenses.

What we dislike: There isn’t enough room at the bow for big dogs.

3. Wilderness Systems Pamlico 135T

No products found.

Wide, stable, and generously sized inside. The Pimlico 135T is a straightforward leisure kayak with a respectable top speed. Smaller dogs can find a cozy haven in the covered space in the bow. Even larger dogs can fit comfortably.

What we like: The seats are quite cozy. A little warmth and cover.

What we don’t like: Not the best for swimming dogs.