Best friends do the things they love together. And if your best friend is furry and four-legged, he can share your passion for paddling with you if he’s ready and you have the best kayak for your dog.
Most dogs love the water, and as pack animals, all of them will love spending a lazy day on the water with you in a kayak. If your dog likes to swim or is comfortable around the water and is well-trained to obey commands, he’s the perfect rowing companion.
All you have to do is find the best kayak for your dog and learn how to do it safely.
How to Choose a Dog-Friendly Kayak
As popular as the sport is, you won’t find a kayak sold specifically to use with dogs. It’s up to the pet parent (you) to find the right one. Use these guidelines to help you. Before you purchase a kayak to share with your dog, consider the following important features.
Weight Capacity and Stability
Dogs vary in size and weight. If you have a 7 lbs Cavoodle, your needs will be different than a dog owner with a 100 lbs Labradoodle.
Determine the combined weight of you and your dog. If your pet is large, choose a kayak with a weight capacity between 400-500 lbs. Check what the manufacturer’s maximum combined capacity is and don’t overload. You’ll get the most stable ride if you don’t go above 70 percent of that. For example, if the kayak’s maximum capacity is 500 lbs, stay under 350 lbs to give yourself a little wiggle room for your gear.
A kayak’s stability depends on dimensions, hull shape, and weight distribution. Your dog is the ballast, has four legs, and is likely to want to move around and check things out so a wide kayak will be the best choice. If you’re a beginner, have an active dog, or plan to ride some white water, look for a kayak with high stability.
Materials and Construction
Kayaks are either inflatable or noninflatable. Since you’ll be doing all the carrying, don’t be afraid to consider an inflatable one. They’re lighter to carry, and the ones made of rugged PVC can be quite durable. However, the most durable kayak will be a noninflatable or hard-shell one.
Kayaks come in a sit-in and sit-on-top models. Most dog owners prefer a sit-on-top kayak. The open deck gives more space for your pet to move around and get comfortable.
The space in a sit-in kayak will be too small for most dogs. However, it can be the perfect choice for small or nervous dogs that like to stay close to you. Just make sure you have enough room to escape if something happens.
Solo kayaks are designed to fit you can your gear. Some of them may have room for a companion if they have an open deck design or storage space. If you choose a solo kayak, be sure to observe the 70 percent capacity guideline.
A tandem kayak can work if you have a large dog. Many sit-on-top tandems can be paddled as a solo kayak. A heavy dog that stays toward the front can balance you out.
Steer clear of cheap inflatable kayaks made from thinner materials that puncture easily. Whitewater and sea kayaks are small, compact, and designed for places you probably won’t be going with your pooch. They have limited space, and you’ll both be cramped.
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TOP PRODUCTS
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is one of those inflatable models made of tough PVC material. At only 39 lbs, it’s lightweight and easy for one person to carry yet durable enough to can resist any damage from water hazards or your pal’s sharp claws. The tough construction and sturdy, layered materials can withstand gasoline, oil, salt water, abrasions, impact, and sunlight.
With a capacity of 400 lbs, it has a buoyancy that can support you and your canine friend. Convenient features include footrests, two inflatable and adjustable seats, and built-in rod holders for anglers. You can give large or restless dogs more room to stand or lie down by removing the rear seat.
This kayak is easy to inflate and deflates quickly thanks to high-pressure spring-loaded valves. Although it isn’t as durable as a hard-shell boat, you still get a good bang for your buck.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Inflates and deflates quickly
- Rear seat is removable for more space
Cons
- Not as durable as hard-shell
Perception Hi Life 11
The Perception Hi Life 11 combines the fun of kayaking with standup paddleboarding. Its unique design earned it the International Design Excellence Award in 2018. It’s 11 feet long which is a good average length for a kayak. At 55 lbs, it weighs a little more than some kayaks, but the added weight is contributed to the use of high-quality components that secure excellent maneuverability and stability.
Features include an elevated seat, a fold-down backrest, an integrated cooler, a drink holder, and generous padding. Its sit-on-top design, swim decks, and hand grips make it easy to get in and out of.
Since the manufacturer recommends a weight capacity of only 280 pounds, this kayak is best suited for smaller dogs and for relaxing in slow-moving or calm coastal waters.
Pros
- Award-winning design
- Excellent stability and maneuverability
- Good for beginners and calm water
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
- Elevated seat isn't very comfortable
DriftSun Voyager Inflatable Kayak (2 person)
The two-person DriftSun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is an excellent watercraft for tandem or solo paddling or kayaking with your dog. It’s constructed of durable Polyvinyl Chloride with a heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom. The 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover resists rips and tears.
This kayak is quick and easy to inflate (less than 5 minutes) using the high-flow double-action hand pump. When deflated, it fits nicely into the carry bag (included.) It’s lightweight at only 27 lbs and easy to transport.
The DrifSun Voyager performs well in both calm and choppy water thanks to its rocker profile and pointed bow. The double-threaded bottom valves are guaranteed against leakage.
EV padded seats offer hours of comfort and the included aluminum paddles have ergonomic grip handles and can be adjusted between 0 and 60 degrees.
Pros
- Durable Polyvinyl Chloride construction
- Lightweight
- performs in calm and choppy water
Cons
- Instructions not included
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-person Fishing Kayak
Constructed of 18-gauge PVC, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is one of the most durable inflatable kayaks available. It can handle calm waters and challenges on lakes but isn’t a good choice for rougher waters. A nylon cover and a tarpaulin bottom adds to its durability. A multiple air-chamber approach keeps other layers inflated should one chamber become punctured.
The Sevylor Coleman is easy to assemble and inflate thanks to the double-threaded valve, and you can check for an optimal inflation level with the pressure gauge.
The seats are adjustable but not as comfortable as some others on the market. As for anglers, this kayak seems to have everything needed including trolling motor fittings and rod holders, and the roomy mesh pockets will hold equipment and snacks.
Overall, the Sevylor Coleman is lightweight and portable yet has a weight capacity of 470 lbs.
Pros
- One of the most durable inflation units
- Easy to inflate
- Includes a pressure gauge and carry bag.
- Good for fishing
Cons
- Could be more comfortable
- Not suitable for rougher waters
Perception Rambler 13.5 Tandem Kayak
The Perception Rambler 13.5 Tandem Kayak is part of a series of sit-on-top kayaks that offer superior stability and fun for all ages and abilities. It’s great for paddling on lakes, or even light surf or slow-moving rivers. It features a design that makes it easy to maneuver.
The roomy two-person design of this kayak has even more stability than its smaller siblings. Four deck loops can be installed to configure it for a solo paddler.
The Perception Rambler’s molded and padded in-seats are removable and easy to get in and out of. There’s an extra seat for kids and dogs. It has a spacious rear storage for coolers and other gear. There are multiple footrest options for paddlers of all sizes.
This unit is hand-assembled in the USA and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Pros
- Superior stability
- Suitable for all ages and abilities
- Spacious rear storage
Cons
- Seats are a bit uncomfortable
- A paddle is not included
Lifetime 10-foot Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak
Anglers who like to fish with their furry friends will love the Lifetime 10-foot Two-Person Tandem Fishing Kayak. It features 3 rod holders and has plenty of storage space for your fishing equipment.
With a total weight of 60 lbs, it’s a bit heavy for one person to carry but the compact size of 10 feet makes it a little easier. A maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs makes it one of the best kayaks for large dogs.
Either of the two backrests can be moved for optimal positioning. Elevated seating keeps you away from the kayak’s floor.
Carefully chosen materials by the manufacturer give this kayak overall durability and longevity. Paddles are included and it comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Good for fishing
- Large maximum weight capacity
- Elevated seating
Cons
- Heavy for one person to carry
- Not well-suited for speed
Sea Eagle Inflatable 420X Explorer Pro Kayak
Owners of large dog breeds will appreciate the Sea Eagle 420X Explorer Pro. It has one of the highest maximum weight capacities of all inflatable kayaks at a whopping 855 lbs. It’s well constructed, highly durable, and has incredible stability and rigidity.
These features are possible because of its construction of reinforced 1000-denier PVC, has 3 chambers, overlapped seams, and a high-pressure drop stitch floor. It also features 26 D-ring tie-downs and 16-self-bailing drain valves to keep you and your pooch dry.
This large, roomy kayak easily inflates in about 10 minutes and packs small for easy transport. It weighs 44 lbs which is a bit on the heavy side for an inflatable.
The seats of the Sea Eagle are removable and can be arranged for just the right comfort for you and your dog.
This kayak is suitable for Class IV whitewater rafting.
Pros
- High maximum weight capacity
- Extremely durable
- Excellent stability and rigidity
Cons
- A bit heavy for an inflatable
- Pricier than other kayaks
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two
You and your dog will create memorable adventures from the ocean to lakes and calm rivers aboard the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two. Its sit-on-top design makes it easy for your dog to jump in and out of. The maximum weight capacity is good at 425 lbs making it suitable for large dogs.
The manufacturer uses quality components for durability and the 34-inch wide beam provides incredible stability. It has a total length of 12 feet and weighs 57 lbs but is fairly light for carrying. A skid plate protects the hull from any damage caused by dragging the kayak
As for comfort, the molded in-center seating fits small children and dogs. The Comfort Plus seats are adjustable in 4 directions.
The Malibu Two is configured to support both solo and tandem paddlers. Thanks to the design of the footrests, solo paddlers can sit in the middle.
Pros
- Good maximum weight capacity
- Incredible stability
- Easily adapted for solo paddlers
Cons
- Not as much storage as other hard-shells
- Paddles aren't included
Safety Tips for Kayaking With Your Dog
- Familiarize your dog with the kayak while on land or in the garage. Use treats for positive reinforcement if necessary.
- Once your dog has settled on a “spot,” consider adding a waterproof bed for comfort.
- Start out sheltered instead of going straight out from the shore.
- Practice getting in the water with your dog
- Know what to do should your boat capsize. Have a safety plan and practice it.
- Get a life jacket for your dog.
- Never tether your dog to the kayak.
- Use a floatable leash
- Always take fresh water and food for your dog
- Dogs can get sunburned. Use a sunscreen specified for dogs.