Best Kayak For Dogs

Best Kayak For Dogs

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Kayaking is a fun and exciting water sport that is becoming more and more popular. It is a versatile sport, suitable for people of different ages and abilities. 

You can kayak in the sea, along rivers, lakes, and large ponds.

You can take it gently and slowly and relax, or build up speed and work on slick maneuvers, or even take on some rapids. You can also use your kayak to go fishing.

There are plenty of people who enjoy outdoor activities and water sports who also have pet dogs. 

It’s hard to leave your dog to go kayaking for the whole day or to go on a water sports weekend, so some people take their dog with them!

Lots of dogs enjoy being out on the water with their owners and getting to join in with the fun.

Best Kayak For Dogs

If you want to take your dog kayaking, you will need a nice large kayak with plenty of space on the deck. 

To make it easier for you to choose which product will suit you best, we have put together a list of the best kayaks for dogs that are available to buy online.

We have included some hard shell kayaks and some inflatable kayaks that range in price, so there is something to suit every need and every preference.

If you are still struggling to decide which kayak will be best for you then check out our buyers guide where we offer advice on how to narrow down your choice.

We have also answered some common questions about taking dogs kayaking in the FAQs section. 

Hard Shell Kayaks

Hard shell kayaks are very stable and durable. Transporting them and storing them can be tricky, but they are versatile and can be used even in adverse conditions.

OUR TOP PICK

BKC TK122 Angler 12-Foot, 8 inch Tandem 2 or 3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak w/Upright Aluminum Frame Seats and Paddles (Purple Camo)

Brooklyn Kayak Company Tandem

EDITORS CHOICE

Pelican - River Gorge 130X Tandem Kayak - Sit-on-Top - Recreational 2 Person Kayak - 13 ft

Pelcian Tandem Recreational Kayak

BEST VALUE

Kokanee Sit-On-Top Kayak, Lime, 10'6'

Kokanee Sit On Top Kayak

OUR TOP PICK

Table of Contents

Brooklyn Kayak Company Tandem

BKC TK122 Angler 12-Foot, 8 inch Tandem 2 or 3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak w/Upright Aluminum Frame Seats and Paddles (Purple Camo)

This hard shell kayak can fit up to three people, which means there is plenty of space for you and your dog.

The weight capacity of this kayak is 770 pounds which means that even if you have a large breed of dog they should be able to join you safely on the water.

It is crafted from a single piece of molded high density polyethylene which is very durable and remains well balanced even in rough, choppy waters or fast currents.

The design of this kayak is well thought out. 

The two aluminum framed seats are ergonomically designed to be comfortable for long trips and the two waterproof hatches provide plenty of space for storage of refreshments and supplies. 

There is an additional area for storage on the nose of the kayak with bungee cords to keep your personal items in place.

There are four accessory rails and two fishing rod holders- if you want to take this kayak on fishing trips then you will have convenient access to all of the items you need.

The kayak also comes with two aluminum paddles.

You can choose from six different colors- purple camo, blue camo, green camo, desert sand, army green or blue. 

You can also purchase this kayak directly from Brooklyn Kayak Company

EDITORS CHOICE

Pelcian Tandem Recreational Kayak

Pelican - River Gorge 130X Tandem Kayak - Sit-on-Top - Recreational 2 Person Kayak - 13 ft

This recreational kayak is ideal for using on calm or slow moving waters. It prioritizes stability over speed, which makes it perfect for beginners or those looking for a leisurely experience.

The design of the twin arched multi chine hull ensures that the kayak tracks smoothly through the water and is easy to maneuver.

It also has a flat bottom which makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak.

This kayak is really lightweight with retractable carry handles which makes it easy to lift down from the roof of your car and to get it in and out of the water. 

You can comfortably seat two people, or one person and a dog, with comfortable padded seats and an adjustable backrest so you can find the perfect seating position.

There are two quick lock hatches for waterproof storage along with an additional area of bungee lacing to keep items safe.

Some other useful design features of this kayak are the molded footrests for additional comfort, paddle tie downs to keep your paddles safe when not in use, bottle holders for your refreshments, and four accessory eyelets which are ideal for convenient access to equipment. 

The kayak comes in an aquamarine color which looks lovely in the water. 

BEST VALUE

Kokanee Sit On Top Kayak

Kokanee Sit-On-Top Kayak, Lime, 10'6'

This hard shell kayak is made from UV protected high density polyethylene that is durable yet lightweight.

It can carry a maximum weight capacity of 425 pounds which means it can fit two people or a person and a dog.

The versatile design allows you to choose the seat positioning, with two adjustable quick release seats.

There are also multiple footrest positions so you can find a paddling position that is comfortable for you.

There is a storage hatch underneath the deck to keep your personal items and refreshments dry, and useful paddle cradles to keep the paddles safe when not in use. 

There are also bungee cords on the nose and the rear of the kayak for additional storage of personal items.

The kayak is 10 feet six inches long and 36 inches wide. 

You can also buy this kayak from Lifetime

Inflatable Kayaks

Inflatable kayaks are much more portable than hard shell kayaks and are easier to store when not in use.

They tend to be cheaper, but they are not as good at handling rough waters. 

RUNNER UP

Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak

INTEX Challenger Inflatable Kayak Series: Includes Deluxe 86in Kayak Paddles and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – Cargo Storage Net

The Intex Challenger is an inflatable kayak that is made from heavy duty puncture resistant vinyl, with 2 separate air chambers to improve stability.

It also has an inflatable Ibeam floor to give the kayak a rigid design when inflated.

The boston valves allow for quick inflation and deflation so you can be in and out of the water in no time.

It comes with a high output pump, as well two 86 inch adjustable aluminum paddles and a useful carry bag to store and transport the kayak when it is deflated.

The closed deck keeps you protected from splashes of water and from wind. There is a cargo net on the nose of the kayak for storage of personal items which is very useful. 

There is a grab line on both ends of the kayak which makes it easier to get in and out of the kayak and to pull it in and out of the water.

The removable directional skeg helps you to maintain good directional control and traction through the water.

This is designed to be a two person kayak but the seats are removable and adjustable so you can also use it for one person or one person and a dog. 

The weight capacity is up to 400 pounds and once inflated the kayak measures 11 feet 6 inches long and 2 feet 6 inches wide.

You can also purchase this kayak directly from Intex

RUNNER UP

Driftsun Almanor Inflatable Touring Kayak

Driftsun Almanor 146 Two Adult Plus one Child Inflatable Recreational Touring Kayak with EVA Padded Seats with High Back Support, Includes Paddles, Pump, Child Seat

This premium inflatable kayak is made from rugged polyester which is built to last. It is also UV resistant so it won’t get damaged in the sun.

It has three separate air chambers which contributes to the overall stability of the kayak but also keeps you afloat for longer in the unlikely event of a puncture.

The PVC I beam floor is incredibly rigid and provides an excellent structure.

It takes only 9 minutes to inflate the kayak using the deluxe dual action high output pump that comes with it and the boston valves help with quick inflation and deflation.

It also comes with 2 paddles, a quick release fin and a travel bag.

Even though the kayak only weighs 36 pounds it has a total weight capacity of 600 pounds which is very impressive for an inflatable kayak. 

It can easily fit two adults and a child, so it is perfect for two adults and a small dog or one adult and a large dog.

The seats and footrests are removable and adjustable so you can make sure you get the set up just right to suit your needs.

Once inflated this kayak measures a whopping 14.5 feet in length and is 40 inches wide. 

This not only provides you with plenty of space but the large surface area helps the kayak to remain steady and balanced in the water.

The splash guard helps to protect you from water sprays and the reinforced carry handles make it easy to take the kayak in and out of the water.

This product is also available to buy from Market Fleet

RUNNER UP

Elkton Cormorant 2 Person Inflatable Kayak

Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak, 10-Foot with EVA Padded Seats, Includes 2 Active Fishing Rod Holder Mounts, 2 Aluminum Paddles, Double Action Pump and More

This inflatable kayak is made from rip resistant PVC making it very durable. It is lightweight and easy to transport, weighing only 27 pounds.

However, it has a weight capacity of up to 450 pounds so it can hold two people or a person and a dog.

Once inflated it measures 10 feet long and 35 inches wide so there is plenty of space on the deck.

The premium seats have a comfort gel interior and are removable, adjustable, and easy to install.

The seats are not inflatable, but the rest of the kayak inflates easily with the pump that is included with the kayak.

You also get two paddles, 8 rod holders (2 motion rod holders, 2 vertical rod holders, and 2 angles rod holders), a removable skeg which helps with tracking, a bag to carry the kayak in once deflated, and a mesh storage bag for the storage of personal items which straps on to your kayak.

There are three separate air chambers which provide great stability and safety in the event of a puncture.

This kayak is also available to purchase from Walmart

Buyer’s Guide

Now that we have taken you through the best kayaks for taking dogs out onto the water, you need to narrow down your choice and figure out which product is going to be best for you.

There are several things for you to consider when making your decision.

The first thing you need to decide is whether you want a hard shell kayak or an inflatable kayak. 

Hard shell kayaks are made from hard plastic and are very durable. They also tend to be very stable in the water.

They often have a higher weight capacity than inflatable kayaks. The downside is that they are difficult to store when not in use- you will need to have space in a garage or a shed.

They are also more difficult to transport as you will need a roof rack. Inflatable kayaks are usually cheaper than hardshell kayaks.

They are easy to transport and easy to store. It takes around 10 minutes to inflate the kayak and then you are ready to go.

They are pretty durable even though they aren’t made from hard plastic, but they aren’t as good at handling rougher conditions and they are not as steady in the water.

The next thing you should figure out is how much weight capacity you need. 

If you are going to take your dog out onto the water with you then you should find out how much they weigh and add this to your weight.

You will also need to leave some weight allowance for gear and refreshments etc.

Once you have worked out how much weight capacity you need you should be able to narrow down your choices of kayak.

If you have a smaller breed of dog then you will have more options as they don’t weigh as much.

There are some other things you can compare when considering which kayak to buy. 

Some kayaks come with additional items like paddles, rod holders and removable skegs.

This can save you money if you would need to buy these items anyway.

Different kayaks have various levels of storage- some of the hard shell kayaks have waterproof storage hatches whereas the inflatable ones have bungee cord areas.

Think about how many bags you need to take onto the water and how much storage space you will need.

The final thing that could help you to decide is the color of the kayak. Some kayaks come in only one color choice whereas others have several options. 

If the color of the kayak is important to you then this could sway your decision.

Whichever kayak you choose, you will have lots of fun out on the water with your dog. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Safety Equipment Will My Dog Need To Go Kayaking?

Even if your dog is a strong swimmer you might want to consider getting them a life jacket.

If there is an emergency and the kayak capsizes or they fall out, they could injure themselves which would affect their ability to swim and stay afloat.

They could also be stuck in the water for some time and get too cold or tired to swim. The life jacket will ensure they are kept safe.

There are lots of dog life jackets available online, some with useful features like reflective or high visibility material to make sure your dog is visible at all times, and grab handles to make it easier to lift your dog out of the water. 

Is It Safe To Take A Dog Kayaking?

Lots of people take their dogs kayaking without any issue. However, there are potential risks involved.

It is important that your dog is well trained and can sit still and quietly on the kayak.

If your dog does not follow your commands when they are out on the water it could result in both you and the dog being in danger or getting hurt.

Start off with shallow waters and short periods of time to get your dog used to it and see how they react and build up from there.

You should also remember to take water for your dog as they might get thirsty out in the sun.

This is especially important if you are kayaking in saltwater, or freshwater that is unsafe for animals to drink. 

What Other Equipment Will You Need To Go Kayaking?

One you have your kayak and your paddles, you are almost ready to go.

However, there are a few more things that you might need before you go kayaking. Safety is very important so you should consider getting yourself a life jacket.

You might also need a helmet if you are kayaking in areas with rocks or trees, as you could hit your head if you fall off the kayak or capsize.

You could also get a dry bag to keep your personal items safe if the kayak capsizes. 

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