Paddle boarding, also known as stand-up paddle boarding, is a fun summer activity you can do with your dog. It involves a combination of paddling and surfing. With the right equipment and proper training methods, you can teach your dog to ride on the board.
You need to consider some important factors before boarding with your dog, such as your skill level and your dog’s size, temperament, and personality. Choosing the right board is also important.
The paddle boards for dogs are wider, longer, and provide a good grip so that they do not slide off when hit by a wave. Also, get your pooch a dog life jacket for their safety in case your dog unexpectedly jumps into water.
Any well-trained dog can become a champion at water sports such as paddle boarding. However, some dogs are more adept at doggy paddling.
Here are the top 10 dog breeds that make great companions for your paddleboard experience.
Dog Breeds that Love Paddle Boarding
1. Labrador Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches
Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Breed Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years
Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds for water sports due to their excellent swimming abilities and natural affinity for water. Originally bred to retrieve nets for the fishermen, Labs are known for their enthusiasm and endurance in water.
Their webbed feet and otter tails make their bodies suitable for swimming. They have a water-resistant coat that provides insulation and protection. Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them ideal companions for paddle boarding.
2. Portuguese Water Dog
Breed Profile
Height: 17 to 23 inches
Weight: 35 to 60 pounds
Breed Group: Working
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years
Originally bred to help fishermen in Portugal, these curly canines make great companions for water sports enthusiasts. These exceptional swimmers with a hypoallergenic coat help them stay comfortable and buoyant in water.
Portuguese water dogs have webbed feet that help them swim. These loyal and outgoing dogs are known for their stamina and agility. They excel in various dog sports, including water rescue, tubing, surfing, and paddle boarding.
3. Newfoundland
Breed Profile
Height: 26 to 28 inches
Weight: 100 to 150 pounds
Breed Group: Working
Lifespan: 9 to 10 years
Having a history as water rescue dogs, Newfoundland dogs have immense strength and endurance in water. They have a thick water-resistant coat and webbed feet, making them avid swimmers. Despite having a massive size, they are well-suited for paddle boarding and other water-based activities.
Newfoundland dogs can even grab people and fish. They are loyal to their owners and are the people pleasers, which makes them easy to train and work with. After a fun paddleboard ride, their coat needs to be taken care of, so keep the grooming tools handy if you plan to go out on the water often.
4. Golden Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 75 pounds
Breed Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Golden Retrievers are lovable dogs with a gentle nature and sociable temperament. They were originally bred for retrieving waterfowl and game in water. Their efficient swimming style and water repellent coat make them ideal candidates for dock diving, water retrieving games, and paddle boarding.
It is a great dog breed for most activities such as running, hiking, and boating. Golden Retrievers are highly trainable dogs who love to please their owners. Goldies are one of the smartest dogs who learn a lot of commands, so you don’t have to worry about jumping overboard with them.
5. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21 to 26 inches
Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Breed Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
They used to hunt ducks in the cold waters of Chesapeake Bay, hence the name. They are known for their stamina and endurance. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are loyal and versatile dogs who excel in retrieving waterfowl and have a strong swimming ability, making them great companions for paddle boarding.
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are loyal buddies who are easy to train. Train your dog to ride the board without a leash, grab your life vest, and get ready to paddle board with your furry best friend. If you are a beginner, I would recommend starting from a shallow spot.
6. Poodle
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 70 pounds
Breed Group: Non-sporting
Lifespan: 10 to 18 years
The Poodle’s fancy fur coat is adapted to water. According to the American Kennel Club, Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable dogs. Their name comes from the German word “pudeln,” which means “to splash,” and they indeed are the ultimate splashers.
Poodles come in many sizes. A standard poodle is a medium-sized dog, suitable for water sports like swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. Although their webbed feet are not so pronounced like other breeds, Poodles’ athleticism, love for water, and trainability make them ideal for this sport.
7. Spanish Water Dog
Breed Profile
Height: 15 to 20 inches
Weight: 31 to 49 pounds
Breed Group: Herding
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
The Spanish water dog excels at water activities due to their unique curly coats that need special care to prevent matting. Due to their love for swimming, they make ideal candidates for water sports such as dock diving, paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking.
They were also bred to retrieve waterfowl, and their curly hair gives them buoyancy and helps them stay afloat. These medium-sized dogs have a friendly and bright temperament and a strong prey drive. These active pets need special care for their coat.
Coat care does not involve brushing, as it can damage the coat. Instead, trim the fur and keep it the same length everywhere to maintain its appearance.
8. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 20 inches
Weight: 35 to 50 pounds
Breed Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 10 to 14 years
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or “toller,” is an intelligent dog that was originally bred to lure ducks by frolicking along the shoreline, drawing the attention of nearby birds, and bringing them closer to land. This playful and energetic breed excels at all activities involving swimming and retrieving.
Tollers are the smallest known Retriever breeds, which according to PetMD, weigh up to 50 pounds. Their size, intelligence, agility, and excellent swimming abilities make them perfect for activities like surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
9. American Water Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 15 to 18 inches
Weight: 25 to 45 pounds
Breed Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 13 to 15 years
This skilled hunter and swimmer is the best at retrieving game from cold water. Their dense, waterproof, and curly coats make them well-suited for stand-up paddle boarding. The coat does not require extra care even after a long day in water.
This sporty breed needs a lot of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They are agile and have the ability to adapt to a wide range of aquatic environments. They are not so big that they can easily fit on an inflatable paddle board.
10. Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 45 to 68 inches
Breed Group: Sporting
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Irish Water spaniels are known for their unique appearance, a curly coat, and a topknot of hair on their head. They are excellent at swimming, which makes them ideal for water activities like paddle boarding. They are highly intelligent hunting dogs, says Purina.
Their distinctive curly, brown, and water-resistant coat and a rat tail that is covered in tight curls. These are highly energetic dogs with lots of stamina and an eagerness to please. They are intelligent and affectionate by nature.
Conclusion
Are you looking for a canine companion for the next paddleboarding adventure? Consider adopting a dog breed that has a natural affinity for water and strong swimming instincts. One of the breeds mentioned in the article can be a good fit for you!
