Kayaking with your dog can be a really rewarding experience, providing both of you with the opportunity to explore nature and strengthen your bond. Since kayaks come in a variety of designs and materials, here are key considerations when choosing a kayak for dogpacking.
Key considerations when choosing a kayak
Stability
Stability is one of the most important factors when kayaking with your dog. A stable kayak minimizes the risk of capsizing, especially when your dog moves around. Kayaks with a wide dimension and a flat base are more stable and least likely to capsize, providing a secure platform for you and your dog.
Size and weight capacity
The size and weight capacity of the kayak are crucial. A kayak that is too full and heavy will be hard to maneuver and will sit too low in the water.
Ensure that the kayak can comfortably accommodate both the size and the combined weight of you, your dog as well as planned food, water and gear. It’s important to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the kayak can handle the total weight. if you’re uncertain how much Gear are you and your dog might want to bring, it’s best to eer on the side of a kayak with too much capacity rather than too little.
Material
The material of the kayak affects its durability, weight, and ease of transport. Common materials include:
Polyethylene: Very durable and affordable, but heavy. This material can tolerate scratches and banging into rocks. Can be a bit slippery for a dog to stand on, so a layer of closed-cell foam (such as part of a a sleeping pad) is recommended.
Composite Materials: Lightweight but more expensive and more susceptible to damage from impact such as being dropped or ramming into a rock. This material is also slippery for dogs so adding a mat made of closed-cell foam is a good idea.
Inflatable: Portable and easy to store, but can be susceptible to punctures – especially from sharp objects such as a knife blade or a sharp edge of a rock. Materials used for most inflatable kayaks are quite scratch- and puncture-resistant. In my experience a dog’s nails would need to be pretty long and sharp to puncture these boats. If in doubt, place a closed-cell foam mat under your dog.
Ease of entry, exit and re-entry
Consider how easy it is for your dog to get in and out of the kayak. Sit-on-top kayaks and those with open cockpits are very easy for dogs to access.
If your dog likes to swim, a kayak that allows easy re-entry from the water is essential. Look for a wide kayak with low sides and open cockpit.
Additionally, sit-on-top kayaks (more below) are relatively easy for all parties to climb back on board in the event of a capsize.
Storage space
Some storage space is needed for carrying essentials such as water, snacks, and safety gear. If you’re planning overnight trips, you’ll need room to store or secure multiple dry bags. Look for kayaks with built-in storage compartments or bungee cords that have enough space for the items you’re planning to bring.
Types of kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks are designed to be very stable and are often marketed for fishing and for beginner paddlers.
Pros
Stability: Sit-on-top kayaks are traditionally wide with a flat hull and hence very stable, which is ideal for beginner paddlers, large dogs, and dogs who like to move around.
Easy Access: Dogs (and people) can easily get in and out, making it convenient for water-loving dogs. They will need some assistance climbing back on-board from the water. This is where a life jacket with a handle is great.
Self-Draining: These kayaks typically have scupper holes that allow water to drain out, keeping the kayak dry and allowing easier self-rescue.
Cost: Sit-on-top kayaks have a relatively low price point, and can be found at sporting goods stores, warehouse clubs and some department stores.
Cons
Exposure: You and your dog will be exposed to the elements, which can be uncomfortable in cold or rainy weather.
Weight: They tend to be heavier and more cumbersome to transport.
Sit-on-top kayaks are ideal for
Beginner kayakers, large dogs, or anyone wanting a stable boat. Best used in calm waters and warmer weather where exposure to the elements is less of a concern.
Sit-inside kayaks
Sit-inside kayaks are the traditional design of kayaks, whereby the paddler’s seat and legs are below the deck.
Pros
Protection: Offer more protection from wind and water, keeping you and your dog warmer and drier.
Storage: Larger capacity to store gear.
Speed and efficiency: Typically more efficient to paddle, allowing for faster travel.
Cons
Entry and exit: It can be a bit challenging for dogs to get in and out of the cockpit. Also more difficult to hoist a dog back on-board if they are in the water.
Stability: Sit-inside kayaks are designed for ease of maneuverability, so they usually feel less stable. This initial tippiness is called primary stability, and allows a paddler to edge the kayak. If you and your dog are new to kayaking, you may be best to start with a more stable kayak such as a sit-on-top or a wide inflatable model.
Space: Limited space for larger dogs, as they will need to sit inside the cockpit with you.
Cost: These kayaks are typically more expensive than sit-on-top or inflatable models.
Sit-inside kayaks are ideal for
More experienced paddlers and smaller dogs. Great for cooler climates and longer trips where speed and protection from the elements is important.
Inflatable kayaks
Inflatable kayaks usually have an open deck and look like a cross between a kayak and a canoe.
Pros
Portability: Lightweight and easy to transport and to store. They can be deflated, rolled up and packed into a bag, making them ideal for travel.
Stability: Often wide with a flat hull, these kayaks are generally very stable, providing a secure platform for your dog. Pay attention to the boat’s shape, since a longer, more narrow inflatable kayak will be faster to paddle but less stable than a short and wide model.
Entry and exit: The open-concept design makes it easy for dogs to get in and out, and to be hoisted back in from the water.
Cons
Durability: Might puncture if the material encounters a sharp rock or other blade-like object. Most high-quality inflatable kayaks are made with durable materials, so na puncture is an uncommon occurrence and can be easily repaired with a fabric patch. To further protect the life of the material it’s also best to store an inflatable boat away from UV light or rodents.
Setup time: Requires inflation and deflation, which can be a bit time-consuming but during frequent use they can be stored almost fully inflated to save time. While reinflating an inflatable kayak after transporting it does take a few minutes, it’s no longer than the time it would take to secure a rigid boats to a roof rack for transport.
Wind resistance: Inflatable kayaks may be more susceptible to getting pushed around by wind.
Inflatable kayaks are ideal for
Beginner and advanced paddlers with any size of dog, travellers, and those with limited storage space or no roof racks, as well as only mildly windy conditions. River and I have enjoyed paddling our inflatable kayak in large swells. Due to the boat’s stability, the swells are really fun – it’s just windy days that we find a bit of a challenge for paddling.
Tandem kayaks
Tandem kayaks are two-person kayaks available as a rigid boat or an inflatable boat. The rigid version will be faster, but the inflatable version will be easier to transport.
Pros
Space: Ample room for both you and your dog, with enough space to move around and room for food and gear.
Stability: Recreational tandem kayaks have moderate stability.
Cons
Size and Weight: Larger and heavier, making them more challenging to transport and maneuver. Consider an inflatable tandem kayak if weight and/or space is a concern.
Tandem kayaks are Ideal for
Paddling with a human partner and a dog, offering plenty of space and stability. Or multi-day adventures with your dog where you want a high gear-carrying capacity.
Additional Tips for Kayaking with Your Dog
Practice makes pawfect
Get your dog used to the kayak on land, offering praise and treats for going up to the kayak and then for sitting in it. A closed-cell foam mat on the floor of the kayak will make your dog more comfortable and provide traction.
Before venturing into open waters, practice with your dog in shallow, calm waters. This will help your dog become comfortable with the kayak and understand basic commands. It’s also an opportunity to test your kayak’s stability and handling.
It’s also a good idea to practice recovering from a capsize: in calm, warm water not far from shore, practice capsizing, righting the kayak, climbing aboard and hoisting your dog up. This gives you and your dog comfort familiarity with being able to deal with intentional or accidental dog-overboard situations.
Keeping your dog safe
Additional key points to consider for your dog’s comfort and safety during water activities are flotation, temperature regulation, and fatigue level.
Even If your dog is an excellent swimmer, it’s a good idea to equip them with a well-fitted life jacket designed for dogs. A life jacket improves your dog’s buoyancy, reduces how much water they swallow while swimming, and mitigates their body heat loss.
Look for a life jacket that fits your dog well, is adjustable, and has a handle, making it much easier to assist your dog back into the kayak. Additionally, a buoyant strap under the neck helps keep your dog’s mouth above water while they swim. River wears the Ruffwear Float Coat but there are other excellent makes and models available.
Hypothermia
A dog loses body heat much faster in water than in air. This is a concern for small dogs in particular, because they have a high surface area relative to their size. So always watch signs that your dog is becoming cold (shivering, reluctance to enter the water). A neoprene doggy wetsuit is a great addition, especially when paddling in cold water.
Overheating
Although went suit to lifejackets can keep your dog buoyant and reduce heat loss when swimming, they likewise increase your dog’s risk of overheating – especially on a warm day. Always keep an eye on your dog’s comfort and be ready to remove their life jacket if they start panting or otherwise appear too warm.
In addition, I secure a 10-foot long buoyant line to River’s life jacket to make it easier to retrieve her if we get separated. Note that when paddling in whitewater or swift water, any line attached to your dog is a potential risk of entrapment (e.g. entanglement in branches) so either avoid a line or use extreme caution.
Finally, also note to your region’s “mandatory safety gear for small craft”. This often includes a life jacket, whistle, light, and a bailing bucket.
Comfort matters
Bring a non-slip mat or towel to place on the kayak floor. This prevents your dog from slipping and adds a layer of comfort. Some kayaks come with padded areas that can enhance your dog’s comfort during the trip.
Hydration, snacks and other items
Keep fresh water and dog-safe snacks on hand to keep your dog hydrated and energized during your adventure. A portable water bowl and some favourite treats can make the trip more enjoyable for your dog. Consider dog-friendly sunscreen. Don’t forget poop bags to leave no trace.
Plan your route
Plan your kayaking route to include frequent breaks on shore. This allows your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and explore the surroundings. Avoid long stretches without breaks, as this can make your dog restless and uncomfortable.
Whether you opt for a sit-on-top, sit-inside, inflatable, or tandem kayak, each type offers unique benefits and challenges. With the right preparation and gear, you and your dog can embark on countless memorable kayaking adventures together.
Do you and your dog kayak together? If there are any additional features you look for in a kayak, let us know in the comments.
Happy paddling!
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