If you're looking for a new adventure this summer, why not try kayaking with your dog? It's a brilliant form of exercise for you, mentally enriching for them, and a great bonding activity to try together.
Before you head out to the water with your dog, it's worth getting some land-based practice first, using the best dog treats and praise to build positive associations around the kayak. You'll also want to get your hands on safety equipment, like a life jacket for both of you, a non-slip mat, and a quick-release leash.
For more tips on how to get started, you'll find Rachel Rodger, Head of Training and Behavior at Napo Pet Insurance, sharing her advice below – including what to pack, how to prepare, and top tips for when you're on the water.
Kayaking checklist
Here's what you'll need to pack:
1. Dog life jacket
Even if your pet is a confident swimmer, Rachel recommends using a dog life jacket to keep them safe and buoyant in the water.
She says, "Choose one with a strong handle so you can lift your dog back into the kayak if needed. You can see Rico and Maisy both have them in my photo!”
2. Non-slip mat or dog pad
Kayaks can get very slippery, so Rachel advises putting a non-slip mat or a dog pad in the bottom to help prevent accidents from happening. The last thing you want is to fall overboard!
3. Quick-release leash
You should never tie your dog to a kayak while paddling, but Rachel recommends bringing a leash with a quick-release clip for launch and landing.
These moments can be unpredictable, and your dog might spook in unfamiliar environments, so this will help keep them under control and prevent them from running off.
4. Collapsible water bowl and fresh water
It might be tempting to let your dog drink from the river or lake, but Rachel warns that the risk of blue-green algae is too dangerous and can be fatal if consumed. Make sure you pack plenty of fresh water, along with a collapsible water bowl that's easy to store.
She says: “Keep your dog hydrated with clean drinking water – don’t rely on lakes or rivers, which may be unsafe. If in doubt, keep dogs out of the water."
5. Dry bag with dog essentials
Your belongings are inevitably going to get wet in a kayak, so be sure to pack a dry bag to store the essentials – like treats, poo bags, a towel, and any medication.
Rachel adds: "I also have a phone case that I can use to take photos, but it floats and keeps my phone dry if we fall in!"
Tips for kayaking with your dog
Never been kayaking with your dog before? No problem – Rachel shares five of her top tips below:
1. Start with land-based training: “Let your dog explore the kayak on dry land first. Encourage them with treats and praise, helping them associate the kayak with positive experiences. Practice sitting calmly inside it with them.”
2. Choose calm, safe water for your first outing: “A quiet lake or a slow-moving river is ideal. Avoid strong currents, waves, or busy boating areas until both of you are more confident. You could even find a club that runs sessions instead of risking going it alone.”
3. Keep sessions short and positive: “For your first few trips, keep paddles short and low-stress. Bring treats and reward your dog for calm behavior. Build up their comfort and stamina gradually.”
4. Wear life jackets – for both of you: “You should always wear a buoyancy aid, and your dog should too. It's not just about swimming – it's about safety in unexpected situations like tipping or cold water.”
5. Stay balanced and calm: “Your dog will take their lead from you. Keep your movements steady, and balance your weight evenly. Sit low in the kayak and stay relaxed, and enjoy it! Make sure you practice moving your arms, as you don't want to bop your dog on the head when you are moving!”
Decided that kayaking isn't for you? You could also try paddleboarding with your dog or these fun outdoor activities for pets
Rachel Rodgers is the Head of Training and Behavior at Napo Pet Insurance, where she plays a leading role in supporting and educating new owners during those crucial early stages of pet ownership. An accredited clinical animal behaviorist (ABTC, APBC, and PACT), Rachel brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to her work. She has been recognized across the industry for her outstanding contributions, and was named Clinical Animal Behaviorist of the Year in both 2023 and 2024 by the LUXlife Awards, and Dog Trainer of the Year from 2020 to 2024 by the North England Prestige Awards. With a strong reputation for both practical training and behavioral insight, Rachel and Napo are dedicated to helping pets and their parents build positive, lasting bonds.
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.
This page was last updated in July 2025 by Megan Milstead.
