Paddleboarding With a Dog: Training Tips for Success
One of the best things about paddleboarding is that you don't have to leave your best friend behind.
Many dogs absolutely love spending time on the water, but just like people, some need a little time to build confidence before they're ready to hop on a paddleboard and cruise around the lake.
The good news?
Most dogs can learn to enjoy paddleboarding with a little patience and preparation.
Whether you're planning a trip to Scotts Flat Lake, Rollins Lake, or another local favorite, here are some tips to help make your first paddleboarding adventure with your dog a success.
Start on Land First
One of the biggest mistakes people make is introducing their dog to a paddleboard for the first time at the water's edge.
Instead, set the board up on the ground at home.
Let your dog:
Sniff it
Walk around it
Step on it
Sit on it
Lie down on it
Reward calm behavior with praise and treats.
The goal is to make the board feel familiar long before you reach the lake.
Teach a "Place" Command
A simple "place" or "settle" command can be incredibly helpful when paddleboarding.
Your dog doesn't need military-level obedience, but having a designated spot where they know they're supposed to sit or lie down makes everything easier.
Practice at home by asking your dog to:
Step onto the board
Sit or lie down
Stay for short periods
Gradually increase the duration.
Choose a Calm Day
Your dog's first paddleboarding experience shouldn't happen during windy conditions or heavy boat traffic.
Look for:
Calm water
Mild weather
Quiet shoreline areas
Less crowded launch locations
The more relaxed the environment, the more likely your dog will have a positive experience.
Morning paddles are often ideal for first-timers.
Let Them Get Comfortable Near the Water
Not every dog wants to jump right onto a board.
Take your time.
Allow your dog to:
Explore the shoreline
Get their paws wet
Watch the water
Observe the board floating
Some dogs are ready immediately.
Others need a few minutes to build confidence.
That's perfectly normal.
Start Small
Your first outing doesn't need to be a two-hour adventure.
In fact, shorter is usually better.
Consider:
Paddling near shore
Staying out for 10–20 minutes
Ending on a positive note
The goal of the first trip is confidence, not distance.
You can always go farther next time.
Bring Plenty of Rewards
Positive reinforcement goes a long way.
Pack:
High-value treats
Fresh water
A portable water bowl
A favorite toy if your dog enjoys one
Reward calm behavior throughout the experience.
The more positive associations your dog develops, the more excited they'll be for future adventures.
Expect a Few Wobbles
Dogs shift their weight unexpectedly.
They stand up.
They turn around.
They decide to investigate something.
It's part of the experience.
Try not to overreact when the board moves.
Staying relaxed helps your dog stay relaxed.
Most dogs figure out the balance surprisingly quickly.
Consider a Dog Life Jacket
Even strong swimmers can benefit from a properly fitted dog life jacket. With our rentals, we will include on fitted just for your pup!
Benefits include:
Extra buoyancy
Easier visibility
A convenient handle for helping your dog back onto the board
Added peace of mind
This is especially helpful for:
Puppies
Senior dogs
Nervous dogs
First-time paddlers
If Your Dog Jumps Off, Stay Calm
Many dogs eventually decide they want to go for a swim.
That's okay.
If it happens:
Stay calm.
Bring the board to a stop.
Encourage your dog back toward you.
Help them re-board if needed.
Avoid scolding them.
Remember, they're learning.
The more positive the experience remains, the better future outings will be.
Signs Your Dog Is Having Fun
Wondering if your dog is enjoying themselves?
Look for:
Relaxed body language
Loose posture
Calm breathing
Curiosity
Willingness to stay on the board
Many dogs eventually become so comfortable that they'll stretch out and take a nap while floating across the lake.
That's usually a pretty good sign they're enjoying themselves.
Some Dogs Need More Time Than Others
Just like people, every dog is different.
Some jump on the board and immediately act like they've been paddleboarding their entire lives.
Others need multiple short sessions before they feel comfortable.
Be patient and remember that the goal isn't perfection, it’s to create positive experiences together.
Adventures Are Better Together
One of our favorite things about paddleboarding is how it allows people and their dogs to experience the outdoors side by side.
Whether you're exploring a quiet cove at Rollins Lake, enjoying a calm morning at Scotts Flat, or simply floating in the sunshine, those shared moments often become the memories you remember most.
We've created custom Google Maps lists featuring some of our favorite local lakes and recreation areas to help make planning your next dog-friendly adventure easier.
Pack some treats, grab some water, and bring your best friend along.
We'll see you both on the water!