SUP with dog - The Wild tribe's recommendations
1. HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUP FOR YOU AND YOUR PET
First of all, you need to take into account the weight of your pet, as well as your own and the equipment you bring with you. The bigger your board, the more stable and weight-bearing it will be. If your dog is 100 lbs or less, our Sequoia 11' model would be ideal for you. If your pet is 75 lbs or less, you can opt for our Peyto golden 11, our Naïa 11 or our Maligne blue or golden.
2. HOW TO CREAT ADEQUATE STABILITY WHILE HAVING YOUR PET ON YOUR BOARD
To create the right balance for paddling with your dog, you'll want to place him on the nose of your board if he's heavy, or between the middle and the nose if he's light or medium weight. As for you, place yourself between the center handle of your SUP and the back of it. This way, the weight will be distributed so that your board is balanced and it will be easier for you to paddle.
3. SECURITY
When using an inflatable SUP with your dog, ensure their claws are trimmed to prevent injury or equipment damage. For safety, both of you should wear size-appropriate lifejackets. Carry a whistle and a buoyant heaving line. Before paddling, practice your dog's board positioning on land and repeat near the water to familiarize them with the SUP.
If your pet becomes restless while you stand and paddle, stand with legs apart and knees bent to lower your center of gravity for better balance. Start with short rides on easily accessible lakes, allowing your dog to adjust to SUP and ensuring a quick return to shore if needed.
4. THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN SUPING WITH YOUR DOG
- Your dog
- Your and your dog's flotation jacket
- Ball-less whistle and buoyant line
- Food and water for you and your dog
- Bags for your dog's needs
- Microfibre towel and drybag