I get a lot of questions about which paddle board is best suited for paddling with a dog.
I love this question because it means there are lots of other people out there who are sharing this awesome activity with their furry pal.
I love dogs (I have 3 of them) and they make me smile every single day. All three have been trained to stand up paddle board with me and I am so thankful that they love to come out for the ride.
I believe inflatable SUP’s are ideal for dogs as they provide a little more grip than a hard board and a little more stability.
If you are concerned about your dogs claws on an inflatable board, don’t be.
As long as you get a decent board it will be tough and durable. I have never had a single repair issue related to their claws or to any aspect of paddling with my dogs.
Factors To Consider
As any of you who have dogs know their personalities can differ so much. My three are all rescues, each with their own awesome personalities and own little quirks.
The board you choose to paddle on with your dog will depend on a few factors:
- your skill level
- your dogs size
- your dogs temperament and personality
My first two dogs were Seth and Oscar. They are complete opposites in every way. One is big, one is small. One is old, one is young. One is chill, one is up for any adventure. One loves to swim, one most definitely does not. The list goes on.
My little guy Seth has been paddling with me almost since the day I got him and he tests out every board I review and has handled each one very well.
He is small and weighs only 13 lbs. Consequently he does not affect my balance while paddling much at all nor does he take up much space on the board.
If your dog is small like Seth, you won’t need to worry too much about the size, shape or design of the ISUP.
Certain boards will be easier for you to paddle than others but your dog will likely handle any board you choose just fine. You’ll get used to the added weight and his movements quickly – especially if you practice on flat calm water first.
For paddling with a medium to large dog or even with multiple dogs consider these options:
HERO SUP CRUSADER
I am a big fan of the Crusader because I really like the dimensions of this board. It is a nice middle of the road length at 11’2″ and has a great width of 31″.
The 31″ width provides a little added stability, which is very helpful when paddling with your dog or when in choppy water.
However it isn’t so wide that you feel like you are paddling an air mattress out there. The 31″ width keeps it gliding well and still easy to turn and maneuver.
We found that when we first started paddling with Oscar our German Shepard we really appreciated a wider width of around 32″. However he got comfortable really fast and we started to find the larger board to feel heavy and slow.
With the Crusader you won’t have that issue. Train your dog right off the bat to sit and get comfortable, do a few practice sessions, start slow and you will both be totally okay!
THURSO SURF MAX MULTI-PURPOSE
If you have multiple dogs and maybe even kids that want to join you the Thurso Surf Max Multi-Purpose offers more stability than most.
This paddle board is 11’6″ long and 34″ wide making it super solid and stable on the water. I paddled this board with three dogs (one large and two small) in choppy water and it handled nicely.
The Max can handle heavy loads well, looks great and has lots of nice features. The only downside is the weight. At 33 lbs. it’s a good 10 lbs. heavier than most on this list, which is significant.
However as a multi-purpose paddle board it’s a really nice option.
ISLE EXPLORER
The Explorer is big and stable and very popular. It feels solid when paddling on flat water or on ocean chop.
This is the board we used to teach Oscar to ride with us (at the age of 10) and although his older legs were initially quite shaky, he very quickly became a pro.
If you’d like to see more pictures and read about Oscar’s experience learning to paddle board with us check out our article “Teaching An Old Dog New Tricks”.
We found the size (11’ L x 32’ W x 6” thick) to be very stable with him. The bungee cords up front are kind of in the way but Oscar would sit either right in front of us on the traction pad or right behind us. Or sometimes he just lays right over top of the bungee cords (he doesn’t seem to care).
We always feel solid on this board with Oscar riding along and on several occasions we have had all three of our dogs on the same board.
Isle has updated their Explorer ISUP since we first did our review. Shape and size are the same but it is now a little lighter in weight and the colors are different.
The one downside to the Explorer is the lack of speed. This SUP is slower to paddle and even slower with a big dog on board.
As we got more used to paddling with a large dog and both our confidence and Oscar’s confidence grew, we decided to switch boards to one that moved a little faster through the water.
Although stable and comfortable the Explorer was feeling sluggish with the added 75 lbs. and to be honest a little boring.
I think it is ideal for someone who really needs or wants that extra stability. You will feel comfortable on the Explorer with any size dog.
SEA EAGLE LONGBOARD
The Longboard comes in two sizes… 11’ long or 12’6” long. We own the 12’6” Longboard and it has been fantastic to use with all of our dogs. It can hold up to 250 lbs. and we have had it loaded up far over that weight limit with no issues.
It is 30” wide and 6” thick with a nice all-around design that can be used in any type of water.
It is not as stable as some of the others mentioned here but it moves well and definitely glides smoothly. Plus it is very versatile.
Once again the bungee cords up front do get a little in the way with the dog, but none of my dogs seem to mind much.
We try and keep our dogs on the traction pad either right in front of our feet or right behind, especially if we have gear stored under the bungee cords.
*Tip: The more you can center your dog on the board with you, the better the weight distribution and the easier it will be to paddle… Although there is the possibility of your dog being in the way of your paddle if he is too close to your feet.
The closer your dog is to the nose or tail of the board, the more sluggish it will feel to paddle. Try out different positions to see what works best. Sometimes however it just comes down to where your dog is most comfortable and you just make it work. 🙂
This board may take a little more practice initially with a large dog but it is fun to paddle and we feel it is a great option for paddling with dogs of any size.
The 11’ long Longboard could also work well but the 12’6” board will give you and your dog a little more stability and space to maneuver.
THURSO SURF WATERWALKER
The Thurso Surf Waterwalker comes in two size options, has a rounded nose and all-around design that provides stability and versatility. This board is definitely stable enough to paddle with a dog of any size, very portable and quite affordable.
The Waterwalker hasn’t let us down and is definitely a good option to consider.
NIXY VENICE G2
The Nixy Venice is actually a yoga SUP but it has an awesome all-around design and is ideal if you want a lot of stability.
It is 10’6″ long and 34″ wide. Normally I would recommend a longer board for paddling with dogs but the 34″ width really adds more space and stability.
The Venice will be much slower to paddle but if you are less worried about speed and more concerned about stability then this one is a great choice.
Our dogs love riding on the Nixy Venice. It is solid, stable and feels very secure. Plus if you have the desire to stop and do a little yoga along the way it is the perfect floating platform.
INTRODUCING JAX
Jax was the third addition to our pack. He was an underweight scruffy little guy who desperately needed a second chance at life.
With a little TLC and a bit of work Jax has become an integral part of our pack often leading our other dogs (even Oscar!).
He is tiny and weighs only 10 lbs. so as you can imagine paddling with him is no big deal. You hardly feel his extra weight on the board.
The tricky part is paddling with all three dogs on the same board, a goal I was determined to conquer. Paddling with multiple dogs can be tough until they each find their own space and get comfortable.
If you have multiple dogs and want them all to ride with you then I would highly recommend doing a little land training first, bring treats and take it slow.
In the pic below was my first time (successfully) paddling with all three dogs on the same board. We are on the Sea Eagle 12’6″ Longboard.
SUP SIZE
As I mentioned before a small dog can go on a board of any size. The wider the board the more stable it is going to be but in general Seth and Jax will ride on any board and they all seem to work well…. Even a small 7’ kids SUP.
For a medium to large dog we personally prefer a SUP that is 11’ or longer and 6’ thick.
32” wide or more is going to be super stable and help guarantee that you both stay out of the water.
However a 30”-31″ wide ISUP is going to move better and be easier to turn.
You know your dog best so which size you ultimately choose will depend on your own comfort and skill level.
SHAPE AND DESIGN
The rounder the shape the easier it will be to paddle with your furry friend.
A round nose and wider base is more stable. A pointier nose is going to cause you both to feel less stable at first but will move better in the water.
We have also noticed that a rounder shape provides more room on the board, whereas a tapered nose and tail will take away some of that space.
TRACTION PAD
With dogs we tend to think we need a long traction pad so there is more room for them to lie down and grip the board.
In truth the traction pad is helpful but in my experience it is not critical.
When we first started paddling with Oscar we had a hard time keeping him centered on the traction pad. He was nervous and wanted to grip the front nose of the board, see pic below… This is not the ideal position for your dog 😉
The traction pad offers more grip for sure even when laying down. When standing and especially when paddling in choppy water or surf, the traction pad is a big help.
For flat-water paddling where stability is less of an issue, I don’t find it so critical.
Seth and Jax wander all over my board and they seem just as comfortable up front off the traction pad. However in choppy water if you can keep your dog centered on the traction pad it will help them greatly to grip the board and stay on.
So that being said, a long traction pad is helpful but it doesn’t necessarily have to make or break your choice.
BUNGEE CORDS
I love bungee tie down cords on my ISUP as they allow me to secure my water bottle and a dry bag with my essentials.
However for dogs they are usually in the way and a bit of a nuisance.
All of my dogs will just sit or lay on top of the bungee cords, even with my gear stored underneath. However they have all also tripped on gear that I have stored under the bungee cords.
I don’t worry about it too much. We encourage our dogs to sit on the traction pad away from the bungees if possible but we’re not always successful. Seth especially loves to ride shotgun at the tip of the board.
If you are having an issue with it and you really find the bungees to be in your dogs way then just remove them.
TRAINING TIPS
For training tips on how to start paddling with your dog please see our 5 Step Guide To SUP With Your Pup.
Inflatable Paddle Boards For Surfing
Light Weight Inflatable Paddle Boards
Best Paddle Boards For Kids
Wonderful article and hoping you can point me in the right direction. I’m a big gal about 240# and have 3 bigger dogs (60#, 45#, 40#) I’m hoping to only have 2 at a time but how needy the youngest is she may need to be on the same board as her sisters, I’m not sure if this is even possible. I have one weaker arm due to shoulder injury and elbow surgery but I’ve been strength training. While kayaking I asked SUP’ers we pass what they have and like and most have recommended Gili or Blackfin. I’ll start as a beginner but hoping to spend time paddling around the marina since I live close to the water we also do a lot of camping on the lake. Your guidance is greatly appreciated.
Hi Allison!
Wow! Lots of great information. A little overwhelmed as far as picking the right board. I’m very new to paddle boarding. I’ve been 3 times with friends and two of those time my 110# Rottweiler came along. All hard boards but want to get an inflatable one for myself. So both times different boards. We did better on the one with traction in the front because he feels he needs to be in front standing. Not in the middle sitting or laying. The one without traction he kept tipping us over ( slippery). What do you recommend for a dog that insists on being in the front. I’m 5’3 160#. We have been on calm and a little rough waters.
Thank you
Lucrecia
Hi Allison,
I appreciate all the information here, both in your reviews and all the replies! Things I’m hoping for in my first paddleboard: ok for yoga, paddling with 33 lb moyen poodle, and use as a floating dock for diving for my kids. Not all at once- this would be 3 separate trips! I’m also curious if you have a similar review page for cheaper boards. A lot of the ones you mention look amazing but are out of reach for me.
Thanks!
Hi Talitha, You’re totally right I do need to do a page for cheaper boards. I am putting it on my list of things to get done this month!
I tend to shy away from the cheaper boards a little bit only because they aren’t typically made as strong. Usually the cheaper boards are constructed with single layer material and often have more issues so I hesitate recommending them sometimes. However there are a few good options out there for sure. One that I just reviewed is the Goosehill iSUP. It has two options, the Sailor or the Rainbow. I would suggest the Goosehill Rainbow for your needs as it is made stronger than the Sailor and capable of holding more weight. It will be more durable with the kids and your dog.
Another great option that actually might work really well for you is the Outdoormaster Chasing Blue inflatable SUP’s. I haven’t reviewed them yet but will be later this month. I’m excited about them because they are constructed well, have nice features yet are priced extremely well. Plus they come with a 2 year warranty, which you often don’t see with cheaper boards. Outdoormaster is a great company (they sell the super popular Shark II electric pump for inflatable SUP’s as well). They have two new boards out this year and more coming soon.
Right now they have the L Series Aqua Spirit (10’6″x 30″x6″) and the P Series Ocean Spirit (10’6″x32″x4.7″). Both are lightweight, the Ocean Spirit will be slightly faster to paddle and the Aqua Spirit will offer a little more stability with the 32″ width. Both can hold up to 280 lbs.
IF you decide to go for either of the Outdoormaster boards I have a coupon code for these guys that you can use… Use code ISUPWORLD15 at checkout and you’ll get an extra 15% off, which makes for a wicked deal.
Last but not least, priced slightly higher yet perfect for your needs is the NIXY Venice. It’s on sale right now for $100 off so might be worth a look. It is perfect for cruising, yoga, kids, dogs and an all-around awesome board. I have used it a lot and it is super durable. Here’s my review if you’d like to check it out.
Oh one more… I just realized that Outdoormaster also has the Solar Spirit iSUP, which I think would suit your needs a little better than the other two Outdoormaster boards. The Solar Spirit is 11’6″ long x 34″ wide by 6″ thick. So it would be slower but ultra stable, which might be nice for paddling with your dog, yoga and the kids hanging out on it. Here’s the link if you’d like to take a look. You can use my discount code (ISUPWORLD15) for this one as well for 15% off.
Sorry for the long answer but hopefully this helps! 🙂
A long response is great! I really appreciate it! Does the construction of the Gili boards compare to the ones you mentioned above? I had been looking at this board before I saw your response: https://www.gilisports.com/collections/stand-up-paddle-boards/products/106-air-inflatable-stand-up-paddle-board?rfsn=4068207.c65c78&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=4068207.c65c78
I think so. It’s been awhile since I tried a Gili board and I’m not totally sure if this particular model is using single layer or double layer construction but they have a 2 year warranty, which is good and price is great.
Hi Allison, I’m a fairly average to large guy. Just under 200 pounds. I have a one year old Newfydoodle puppy named Maze. She is 80 pounds. We live near the ocean on the central coast of California. Avila Beach is a nearby dog friendly area where we will be paddle boarding as well as Morro Bay. We also travel in our RV to various lake campsites. Lastly, I have an overlanding truck and go to Baja occasionally and would like to paddle board with her there as well when we go. Any recommendations you have would be appreciated. Also curious about your thoughts on a fin type e-motor for SUPs. Thanks
Hey Allison 🙂
Thank you for this thorough article! Like probably everyone else, I am trying to find ways to entertain myself and the dog this summer while staying close to home. Lots of my friends has been paddling for a while, but none with a dog. I would like to start this summer and see if I fell in love with the sport before going all in with the best paddle board! So I am looking for something on calm water like lake and for fun. I am a beginner in paddling, but also in every watersport so I am far away from needing something to go fast or even surfing!! I am a dancer, so I am usually good with balance and stability, but on water it is probably way different! Could you suggest me a paddleboard with those criterias 🙂 ?
– 90 lbs dog (Winston the bernese/lab)
– 5’2” – 130 lbs human (me!!)
– Very beginner
– Mostly for lake, maybe some yoga, enjoying the sun
– Both dog and human have good balance, but he may be a high risk to jump into water because he loves to swim
– Good grip and easy to use for a first timer
….and any recommendation you may have for us!!
Thank you so much!
Hi Vanessa!
Okay a few options for you:
1. If you don’t want to overspend at the moment the Goosehill Rainbow is a good starter board and would work well for you and Winston. It’s ultra stable and easy to paddle and perfect for lake paddling or even yoga. You can find it on Amazon here. You’ll see two models, the Rainbow and the Sailor. I reviewed the Sailor and enjoyed it but you don’t want that one, it’s made cheaper and won’t work well for paddling with Winston. The Rainbow has stronger construction for a larger dog. It’s still a cheaper board and you’ll want to upgrade from this one eventually but it’s an easy one to start off on and would work for your needs.
2. Going up in price slightly but without going too high is the Atoll paddle board. Basic in design but nice to paddle and a great company. I used the Atoll board a lot in the past when paddling with my old German Shepherd.
3. Going up in price just slightly more is the NIXY Venice or the Hero SUP Crusader. Both high quality boards, versatile and stable all-around SUP’s. With these boards you won’t need to upgrade for awhile. I am just reviewing the latest 2021 model of the NIXY Venice and it’s quite impressive. The Hero SUP Crusader I’ve used a lot over the years and had several dogs on it. Higher quality boards but higher in price as well although not too crazy.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. 🙂
Hi Allison,
You are a wealth of information! I wanted to ask what board you would recommend I get. I have a 4 months old Newfie pup who already weighs 45 lbs. She should be between 120-130lbs full grown. I am 120 lbs for reference. What board would you recommend I get?
Thank you so much! Francesca
Thanks Francesca! Your Newfie pup must be so adorable and I love that you are going to take her paddle boarding. So the wider the board the more stable it is going to be for you guys but also the slower you are going to move. You have a few options. You’re not very big yourself so you might actually prefer paddling a board that is only 31”-32” wide. I definitely wouldn’t go any leaner than that with your big pup. I’ve seen photos of some large dogs on the Hero SUP Crusader board. That one would definitely work especially with the longer 11’2” length but I would say only if you feel fairly confident in your own balance. The 31” width feels great to paddle but it will also challenge you as your dog gets bigger until she is trained to sit still.
If you want to go more stable the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132 is slightly wider, still a good length and a good shape for paddling with a big dog. It’s quite stable but also slower to paddle and much heavier.
However if you want to really make sure the board is going to be ultra stable for your Newfie then I’d suggest taking a look at the Nixy Venice. I’m just reviewing the latest 2021 model right now and should have the review up in a few weeks. It’s wide at 34” but has more of a tapered shape so it still glides decently. It’s definitely going to be slower to paddle but that 34” width would really be nice with your big pup. The only downside is that it is only 10’6” long. The shorter length keeps the weight down but you also lose some space up front, which means less space for your pup to sit without getting in your way.
Sooo it totally depends on your comfort level. Hopefully I haven’t confused you more. 🙂
Feel free to email me with more details like your experience level and type of water you’ll be paddling in most etc. and I answer any more questions. allison@isupworld.com
Thank you Allison! This is so helpful, and I am so grateful for the detailed response. You are amazing!!! I am going to research all 3 boards and I look forward to the new review!
💗
Francesca
You are welcome! 🙂
Hi Allison, thank you very much for this elaborate article on choosing a SUP board for supping with dogs! Very useful. I am looking to buy a board for me and my dog Tobi, and was wondering if you could advise us. We are based in The Netherlands by the way. Tobi is a collie mix and weighs about 26 kg so I guess a little over 50 lbs. I am 72 kg/ 144 lbs. I am doubting between the SIC Okeanos 12’6 x 31 inch and the Tahe sup yak air beach 10’6 x 34 or 11’6 x 36. I like the combination of a sup and a seat 🙂 which the SIC does not have but maybe you can add it yourself by adding D-rings and a separate seat? Do you have experience with this? I feel it would be very relaxing to vary with standing and sitting down/ kayakking… But I am afraid the Tahe board will be too slow/ sluggish (like you mention “paddling an air mattress ;D). On the other hand, the SIC might be too instable for me as a beginner. We did paddle twice together, on the RED ride 10’8, but I felt this was very slow and not a very nice forward glide (moving from right to left when paddling). I hope my questions are clear and I look forward to hearing from you! Thanks in advance, hugs, Tineke
what I forgot to mention, the Tahe boards have seats included :).
Hi Teneke,
I’m glad you liked the article! Of the three boards you mentioned the Sic Okeanos is the better board. It’s well made, durable and is definitely going to glide and perform the best. You might feel slightly less stable on the Okeanos initially – although it’s still a good size at 12’6″ long and 31″ wide – but I think you would get used to it quickly even with your dog on board and it would be a nice ride. A 12’6″ long board can feel quite stable even with a 31″ width. You can always glue on extra D-rings to attach a seat, it can be done quite easily.
For the Tahe Beach Air I would suggest the 10’6″x34″ over the 11’6″x36″. A 36″ wide board is a beast and going to feel like a slug to paddle. Ultra stable for sure but it will also be ultra slow. This board will feel very comfortable but I think you will get tired of it quickly just because it will take so much effort to paddle. The 10’6″ Tahe will glide slightly better and be easier to turn and maneuver.
Hope this helps! Good luck with your choice, would love to hear how it works out. 🙂
Thank you Allison for a most comprehensive and thoughtful review … And the images really helped.
This is all very first stage exploratory for meI
I live in Australia, am over the age of 55 and very much only a recreational kayak paddler. Only really do kayaking on dams estuary or tidal water (paddles usually chosen to go with the tide).
This year, with the assistance of a demonstration from Chris de Bois (1770 Queensland), I have now successfully ‘convinced’ my 7 years old, 30kg labrador/kelpie Lily to stay in my kayak three times now. And you are correct liver treats and gently patience worked wonders.
And now I am super interested looking at the option of an inflatable SUP as I am planning to travel in my camper van. Have only SUP once. I loved it and surprisingly, found it easy (still a bit to learn how to get back on so), so imagine that i will keep to paddles where it is easy to get back to land or river bank.
Have looked at the Sea Eagle long board which has been highly recommended. I will check availability of your recommendations in Australia. From my SOT kayak experience, good manoeuvrability and tracking make the experience much more enjoyable and less tiring for me.
I have seen a Red Paddle new SUP about to be released in GB Nov 2020 or early 2021. It is longer but only 30″ wide. It is advertised with the improvement of having a slightly shaped “V hull’ like a kayak and wondered if you have had any experience with same. Red Paddle Co
13 ft 2 Voyager – 2021.
Congrats on the time that you put into your website and the well researched info that you provide for prospective paddlers. Do you have contacts/suppliers in Australia?
Kind regards
Janet.
Brisbane
Australia.
Hi Janet, Thank you so much for the kind words! I apologize for my late response. I’m so glad you have been able to get your dog Lily to kayak with you – I absolutely adore paddling with my dogs. My dogs actually prefer being on the paddle board now rather than in my kayak, although they all started out in the kayak first.
Another brand in Australia worth checking out is Bay Sports. I haven’t tried their boards yet but I have heard good things and have had very positive interactions with them. Honu Paddle Boards is another brand in Australia I have heard good things about. Both worth looking at and their boards are priced fairly well.
For the Red Paddle Co Voyager, I haven’t tried the 2021 model yet. The V hull will make the board more efficient. The only downside is that a V hull leaves less room for your dog up front plus less stability for the dog if she’s sitting up front. Still totally doable, just need to train your dog to sit a little closer to the middle or just behind you. I personally find the longer 13’2″ length to take more effort to paddle and carry but all in all the Voyageur is a really great board.
Hope that helps! 🙂
Thanks Allison,
My turn to apologise for late response … I did not realise that you have replied as there was no notification my end … and missed this section the last time i checked your site …
Thanks for the Australian contacts, i will check them out …. I also don’t mind paying shipping for the most appropriate board for me …
I did forget to mention that i would be looking for an inflatable with rings so that I could convert to paddle with my kayak seat to use as a kayak … especially to get Lily started … as she is already used to the positioning with that and me sitting and easy to settle her. Funny story there, out last paddle was along a country creek, and a few flies buzzing in some of the water vegetation. My dog (part kelpie) is obsessed with chasing and catching flies …. It was most unsettling experience (literally and proverbially) when she snapped and lunged while balanced in the kayak …
Please correct me if i am wrong, but it would appear from what I have read that the main difference with a hybrid kit, is that the kit supplies a board with rings for seat attachments, a SUP paddle with attachments that can be converted to a kayak paddle.
I am lookimg to purchase in the next week or so, in the hope that with any necessary shipping etc, I can have it in Australia by the end of March.
again, thank you for your thoughts, And will keep a closer check on your site for your response this time. I can’t wait to give you the feedback on choice of board etc on how we go.
Kind regards
janet
Hi Janet, I had a chuckle at your dog snapping at the flies. I can definitely relate as one of my dogs is obsessed with ducks and every time one gets near while I am paddling she gets really excited and causes me to hang on for dear life! – We’re working on that haha.
Yes typically if a board is listed as a hybrid model it means that a kayak seat can be attached to D-rings and the paddle can be converted for kayak use. However more and more paddle boards (even ones that don’t mention being a hybrid model) are including side D-rings and an optional seat attachment. That option seems to be getting more popular.
Looking forward to hearing back when you get your board! 🙂
Thanks for such a thorough and descriptive post. I feel well equipped to select a board and start training my large dog and I on it!! The vistas in your images are breathtaking and inspiring too.
Thanks Helene! I’m very fortunate to have some beautiful areas to paddle close by and I absolutely love being able to take my dogs paddling with me. I hope it goes well with your large dog, good luck and happy paddling!
Allison,
thanks for the thorough reviews of the best SUP for paddling with dogs. This article, plus your followups to all the questions, gave me the confidence to order a pair of Hero Crusaders for paddling with my wife and dog (60 lb chocolate lab mix). Their website indicated they just got some in stock. Also, might I suggest you make your affiliate links interspersed in the article a few more times. I missed the links when ordering, but did email Hero and mentioned you were the referrer for my order.
thanks!
Jason
Hi Jason, Wow that’s so nice! I actually got an email from the guys at Hero SUP to say a nice customer contacted them regarding my review and asked that I get commission for the order! So they totally followed through, thank you so much for doing that! I’m quite conscious of not putting too many affiliate links in my reviews, I’ve been sticking to one near the top and one near the bottom but perhaps I should add one more somewhere in the middle. It’s interesting to get your feedback, I appreciate the suggestion!
I really hope you love your new Crusader. I just had mine out yesterday with my dogs, had a beautiful day paddling in the sunshine. 🙂
2 50# Springers. One aft of me and 1 forward. Like bungees as I’m a type 1 diabetic and need munchies. Recommendations?
Hey Lisa, Love that you will be paddling with your Springers! I really like the Hero SUP Crusader for paddling with dogs, I take mine out on that one all the time. My dogs are small but I have had my friends 60 lbs Doodle with two of my little ones on my board and it handled well. The latest 2020 model has bungees at both the front and back so no problem securing snacks. I’m just reviewing the 2020 Crusader right now, I should have it up in the next day or two, but here’s my review from last year. It’s a really cool board, quite versatile and comes with a great package that includes a rolling backpack.
Another option to consider would be the Thurso Surf Waterwalker 132. Also a great board, stable for paddling with dogs and has bungees at both the front and back. The only thing I don’t like about the Waterwalker is the weight. It’s really heavy compared to other models of similar size and consequently I don’t find it as convenient for taking out. However would definitely still work for your needs.
Hey thank you for the great reviews! This is all really helpful. I am 225 lbs and my husky Storm is 75 lbs. I loved the idea of the first board you reviewed the hero crusader. The only problem is their sold out and I can’t find one anywhere. Is there any board other than that one you could recommend that is very similar? I like the idea of stability while retaining great handling. Thank you for any help!
Hey Jim, The only other one I know of that has similar dimensions is the Starboard iGo. Super cool board but also higher priced. Comes in several different sizes but one is very similar to the Crusader. I actually emailed the guys at Hero SUP last week to find out when their Crusaders would be in – I’ve had quite a few people asking about them. They said their shipment was delayed but will be arriving around first week of July. It’s a great SUP. Otherwise you might have to go up in size to a 32″ wide board, which seems to be very common these days and feels stable but definitely slower and harder to maneuver.
One other option if Storm is good at staying in one spot is the Sea Eagle Longboard. It’s only 30″ wide so less stable but if you went for the longer 12’6″ board it will provide a little more stability and a bigger platform for your dog. With the 30″ width it moves nicely. I took my German Shepherd out on the 12’6″ Longboard a few times and it wasn’t too bad as long as he stayed in one spot. 😉
Hi Allison : )
Your a wealth of knowledge!!!
My husband and I are newbee’s to paddle boarding; we love it, but are still working on our stability. We have a Golden Retreiver, London, that we have taken a couple times on rental boards and she loves it. We would like to invest in a board that we both can use, my husbandis 6’5 and weighs 240 lbs and our pup weighs 90 lbs; we live part time in San Diego, so choppy super wavy salt water and part time in Lake Tahoe, choppy wavy lake water. Our entry points in both areas are rocky so worried an inflatable may not be the best choice, we have a truck to carry a solid board. Were looking for a life jacket for London too.
Any suggestions??????
Thank You***
Patti
Hi Patti, So glad you are finding the site helpful!!
I just finished reviewing a board that is super stable and perfect for paddling with a large dog. Check out my review of the Thurso Surf Max, it might be ideal for you. It’s wider at 34″ so a little slower moving through the water but it will feel nice and stable with London on board even on choppy water. The biggest downside to the Max is the weight. It’s heavy at 33 lbs but well made and durable.
I don’t worry too much about the inflatable SUP’s in rocky entries. I’m careful not to scrape them on the rocks too much but they are quite tough and I’ve never had an issue with that. My bigger concern would be the fin breaking on the rocks so you’ll want to be conscious of that. Bumping into rocks is usually not an issue.
I’ve tried a few doggy lifejackets over the years and my favourite is the Ruffwear Floatcoat. I have a couple of these that are over 6 years old and been used a TON with my dogs and they still look almost brand new. The top handle is extremely helpful to get your dog back on the board if they go for a swim and they seem to be comfortable – no complaints from my pup crew. My 75 lb. German Shepard took a size large.
Hope this helps! If the Thurso Surf Max ISUP doesn’t seem like the right fit let me know and I can help with more options.
Also to live part time in San Diego and part time at Lake Tahoe sounds incredible! 🙂
Hi Allison, I am so happy I found this site, and I hope you are still checking it after a year! I am looking to buy a SUP for my daughter and her bulldog! They used one for the first time last year, and my daughter, being quite athletic and coordinated, really did wonderful with her uncoordinated 75 pound bulldog on board! It was not an inflatable one though, and that is what I am looking into now, for travel purposes. Do dog’s nails really not puncture them? They will only be using it on lakes. Are there any other boards besides the ones you have mentioned, that you now recommend…..one that won’t break the bank? Thank you!
Hi Jayne, Updating this article is actually on my list for this week! This will give me the push to get it done. 🙂
Definitely no problem with the dogs nails. I have never ever had an issue with this and I know tons of people who paddle inflatable SUP’s with their dogs and have had no problems.
With a 75 lbs. dog I would suggest a board that is at least 11′ long. The Isle Explorer on this list is still a great option. It is 32″ wide and provides lots of stability. We started our German Shepard on that board but as he got more comfortable we found that the Explorer was a little sluggish to paddle with his added weight so we switched him over to the 12’6″ long x 30″ wide Sea Eagle Longboard… there is more room in length but less width. Overall a little less stability but he got comfortable on it really fast and we love paddling this board.
A couple new boards that I have reviewed recently that are worth considering are the Thurso Surf Waterwalker and the Thurso Surf Expedition – both priced extremely well and good quality.
The Expedition is a nice length at 11’6″ long x 30″ wide. It glides well and with your daughter being athletic she will likely be fine with a large dog on this board. However if her bulldog is really uncoordinated the Waterwalker is 11′ long but a little wider at 32″ – slower to paddle but more width for added stability.
If her dog can get used to sitting still on the board, I think she’ll be happier in the long run with the 30″ wide board that moves a little better but either way you can’t go too wrong.
Hope that helps!
Hi Allison!
I’ve enjoyed reading through a lot of your site here as I’m looking to buy a iSUP. I’ve been using a hard board up until now. Most of my use is in lakes since I’m in Colorado but I’d like to bring it with me to California when I visit family to do some ocean riding (although probably not a great bit of my paddling will be done in the ocean). I’m wanting a board I can take my 2 year old Portuguese Water Dog (medium frame and about 40ish lbs) on as well. I’m 5’7″ and about 165lbs… I know I can’t have the best of all worlds, but I do prefer a ride that doesn’t sit high in the water and probably care more about efficiency then stability…
I’ve been looking seriously at the Red Paddle 10’6″ and also their Sport that is 11’3″ (although it’s pretty far out of my price range).
Do you have any thoughts on those as options or any other outstanding options that aren’t like paddling on a boat? Thanks for any advice you have! I don’t want to dump a bunch of money into a board that I won’t like…
Thanks!
Julianne
Hi Julianne! If you want a ride that sits lower in the water you have a few options. You will definitely sacrifice some stability (especially with your dog on board) for the better maneuverability and performance that an ISUP under 6″ thick offers. However if you feel comfortable enough with your skills it is totally doable.
The first boards that come to mind are the Red Paddle Co SUP’s and the Starboard SUP’s. Both are super rigid and able to handle more weight even though they are only 4.72″ thick. The Ride is definitely a good choice and it is quite versatile. I personally prefer the performance of the Sport – especially on flat water. The leaner width of the Sport and the 4.72″ thickness will force you to stay focused as you paddle with your dog. That being said it is so fun to ride! PumpedUpSup.com has both the 2016 Ride and the 2016 Sport on sale. The Sport especially is on for a wicked price!
Another option is the Starboard Astro Blend Zen. I am particularly fond of this board, I find Starboard thinks of every detail. The Blend Zen is 11’2″ long, 32″ wide and 4.7″ thick, which is a nice size. So it is a little longer than the Red Paddle Co Ride and the same width. It will provide just a little extra stability with the added length. I have never tried this one with a dog however.
Lastly you could take a look at the Lokahi Water Explorer. It is 10’6″ long, 33″ wide and 5″ thick. The added width adds more stability and I have had my 75 lbs. German Shepard on this board with no issues. However with the 33″ width it is a little sluggish (especially with the dog on board) and you might find the lack of efficiency frustrating over time. Hope that helps! Once you get your board send me a pic with your dog!! I love Portuguese Water Dogs… I am seriously considering adding one to my pack down the road 🙂
I, too, have a PWD. I’m physically limited in an 81yo body. I doubt I would ever stand up on the board, but would sit and paddle. My pwd is 70#, still agile.
My brother and I travel quite a bit in an R Pod. Space is an issue, and I would expect an epoxy board mounted on the SUV would disappear one night. So…250lbs combined weight, plus some allowance for carry-ons. And possibly dog #2. Say 300#. I fly fish.
I’m downsizing from my inflatable Hobie 9′ kayak.
Thinking I will be primarily seated, so one that works well with a seat, legs in front or dangling. Dog preferably in front of me . Paddling as a kayak. Lake waters or slow rivers or bays. We live a few miles from Humboldt bay. Easy inflation. Currently looking at Isle Explorer and irocker. Both seem wide to me, although 32 isn’t much wider than 31.
Hi Sandra, The Isle Explorer and the iRocker are both great SUP’s. A 32″ wide board will feel stable, especially with the dog on board but it will definitely be slower to paddle. We have found that although a 32″ wide board feels very secure, it tends to drag through the water when our big dog is on board and you might especially notice the extra width when paddling kayak style. So just depends if you’d rather more stability or better glide. For more stability the Isle Explorer is a good choice and we have used it a lot over the years. The Sea Eagle Longboard is a great option for better glide. It has the option of including a seat and definitely glides faster than the wider boards. It has two length options 11′ or 12’6″. We especially like the longer version when paddling with a large dog. The 12’6″ board offers a little more space and stability but still performs well. Also although the max weight for the 12’6″ Longboard says 250 lbs it can definitely hold more. We’ve had it loaded up past 300 lbs with no trouble. Hope that helps!
I would add the Shaboomee HydroCruiser to your list.
http://www.shaboomee.com/shaboomee-sup/11-hydrocruiser-inflatable-sup-package
They have a large rubber section to the front of their boards and the designer said it was partly for extra traction for dogs. Plus it’s just an awesome board all-around. I used to have an Isle Explorer and after demo-ing the Shaboomee I quickly switched. The Shaboomee is more stable. It has large 1″ D-rings the full length of boards so you can put as many bungees as you want. And it’s just bomber built. Much heavier duty than the Explorer.
I’ve gone on numerous multi-day river trips with the Shaboomee and I can’t imagine a better board. It also has a standard fin box (the Explorer does not) so it’s easy to swap out a long lake fin for a short river fin.