Getting out on the water with your dog is a great way to exercise your four-legged friend, have fun, and bond. Getting the right kayak for your dog is a matter of ensuring that you think about and plan ahead for their safety and comfort. For example, dogs that are prone to overheating should not be in a kayak without a roof.

Paddling with your pet is a great way for you both to bond. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best kayak for dogs as well as some safety tips and dog-friendly destinations.

Popular Choice

Tamarack Kayak LIFETIME

★★★★★

Lifetime Muskie Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle

Top PickMost Popular

River Gorge 130X Tandem PELICAN

★★★★★

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

Best Value

Explorer K2 Kayak INTEX

★★★★★

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump

BEST KAYAKS FOR DOGS 2023

PELICAN River Gorge 130X Tandem

OUR TOP PICK

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

General Impression

The Pelican River Gorge130X lands at the top of our list for the best kayak for dogs. This overly spacious kayak is excellent for dog lovers who are looking for a long-lasting and fun investment. Pelican uses a thermoforming process during construction to increase the durability of its products allowing you to take your kayaking dogs on adventures for years to come.

This kayak has more than enough space to add a kayak dog platform should you choose to. With extremely comfortable seats, additional storage, and a hull shape that slices through the water, it’s easy to see why this vessel has earned the top spot in our dog friendly kayaks review.

Specifications

BRAND: Pelican
KAYAK WEIGHT: 73 Pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 500 Pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 156 inches, W: 34 inches
SEATING: 2 people excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Hardshell, Sit-on-top, High Molecular Weight Polyethylene
FEATURES: Dry Storage, Fast, Durable, High Capacity, Extremely Stable
SUITED TO: 1-2 Dogs; Small/Medium/Large Dogs

PROS

  • Durable
  • Spacious
  • Extremely stable
  • Dry storage

CONS

  • Heavy
  • Not easily transportable

INTEX Explorer K2 Kayak

BEST VALUE

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump

General Impression

For beginner kayakers the Intex Explorer K2 offers a fun, safe, and easy to use option at an extremely affordable price, earning the title of the best value in our kayaks for dogs review.

This kayak is easy to paddle, offers plenty of room, and has easy inflation and deflation with the addition of boston valves on either side. The two inflatable seats are adjustable and removable making it easy to turn the Explorer K2 into a kayak with room for a dog.

The construction is durable enough to handle the wear and tear from the excitement of your canine companion. The portable design, ease of use, and price tag all make this a great kayak for dogs.

Specifications

BRAND: Intex
KAYAK WEIGHT: 37 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 400 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 123 inches, W: 36 inches
SEATING: 2 people excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Inflatable, Heavy Duty Vinyl
FEATURES: High Visibility, Adjustable Seats, Multiple Air Chambers
SUITED TO: 1 Dog; Small/Medium Dogs

PROS

  • Comfortable
  • Very stable
  • Portable
  • Easy to enter and exit

CONS

  • Not as durable as other materials
  • Lacks maneuverability

LIFETIME Tamarack Kayak

General Impression

A well-rounded kayak for stability, comfort, and size – this is an excellent choice for adventuring with your furry friend. Having enough storage space and room to accommodate a single kayaker along with their dog, enthusiasts are sure to have a safe and fun time on the water.

The lifetime tamarack is constructed from a highly durable, UV protected material. It also offers a 5-year warranty so there is no need to worry about your excursions being cut short. This finds its place in our dog kayak review as being the best for small dogs.

Specifications

BRAND: Lifetime
KAYAK WEIGHT: 51 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 275 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 120 inches, W: 31 inches
SEATING: 1 person excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Hardshell, Sit-on-top, High-Density Polyethylene
FEATURES: Stable Flat Bottom, Adjustable Seats, Dry Storage
SUITED TO: 1 Dog; Small Dogs

PROS

  • Very stable
  • 2 storage compartments
  • Tracks straight.
  • Multiple footrest positions

CONS

  • Limited weight capacity
  • Lacking portability

BROOKLYN KAYAK CO. TK219

General Impression

The Brooklyn Kayak Co. TK219 is one of the best tandem kayaks on the market given its reasonable price tag and quality construction.

With a roto-molded hull, you can expect stability in oceans, lakes, or rivers even in choppy conditions. With a high weight capacity and room for up to 3 people, Kayakers can enjoy spacious comfort while also having a kayak with a dog seat.

Multiple dry storage compartments, as well as bungee tie downs, provide ample storage. There is also the added bonus of rod and paddle holders to help avoid unwanted clutter when adventuring. The BKC TK219 is another great option for those who are looking to add a dog kayak platform.

Specifications

BRAND: Brooklyn Kayak Co.
KAYAK WEIGHT: 68 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 595 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 150 inches, W: 34 inches
SEATING: 3 people excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Hardshell, Sit-on-top, High Density Polyethylene
FEATURES: Seating for 3, Dry Storage, Durable, Rod Holders
SUITED TO: 1-2 Dogs; Small/Medium/Large Dogs

PROS

  • High weight capacity
  • Seating for 3
  • Rod holders
  • Lots of storage

CONS

  • Heavy
  • Length hinders portability

SEVYLOR COLEMAN Colorado

General Impression

Inflatables can be tricky when it comes to your kayaking dog, however, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado can ease the stress of unwanted punctures. Being made from 18-gauge PVC, along with the bottom being constructed from 1000D tarpaulin, and an 840D nylon cover, this kayak has strength and durability hard to match in many inflatable options.

Offering padded adjustable seats, excellent stability, and multiple air chambers for added safety the Colorado is a very dog friendly kayak.

Specifications

BRAND: Sevylor Coleman
KAYAK WEIGHT: 40.5 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 470 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 130 inches, W: 39.6 inches
SEATING: 2 people excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Inflatable, 18 Gauge PVC
FEATURES: Nylon Cover, Manometer, Drainage System, Multiple Compartments
SUITED TO: 1-2 Dogs; Small/Medium/Large Dogs

PROS

  • Spacious
  • Portable
  • Removable seats
  • Paddle holders

CONS

  • Rod holders can be cumbersome
  • No waterproof storage

PERCEPTION Pescador 12

General Impression

The Perception Pescador 12 is as sleek and fantastic as it looks.

Having both open storage with the addition of closed dry storage makes it easy to stow away your belongings along with treats for your dogs. The seat offers a comfortable fit and the Pescador has adjustable footrests so any size individual can enjoy their time on the water. 

This kayak is also an excellent option for anglers who enjoy bringing along their pets. With included rod holders and gear tracks for accessories, you’ll have no problem accommodating both your dog and gear. Best suited to small and medium dogs, users may consider the addition of a kayak dog outrigger for larger animals.

Specifications

BRAND: Perception
KAYAK WEIGHT: 64 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 375 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 144 inches, W: 32.5 inches
SEATING: 1 person excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Hardshell, Sit-on-top, High Density Polyethylene
FEATURES: Extra Storage, Fast, Easy Tracking, Accessory Mounts
SUITED TO: 1 Dog; Small/Medium Dogs

PROS

  • Easy tracking
  • Fast
  • Durable
  • Dry storage

CONS

  • Heavy
  • Side grips lacking

INTEX Excursion Pro Kayak

General Impression

The Intex Excursion pro is a highly durable and versatile inflatable kayak. Being manufactured from a PVC laminate material with a polyester core – this inflatable has an increased lifespan when exploring on the water.

The excursion pro offers an array of features including removable seats, footrests, rod holders, and even an included waterproof bag that can be stowed in the bow. With multiple air chambers for added safety, and skegs attached to the hull to increase tracking, this is a great boat for all kayak enthusiasts.

Specifications

BRAND: Intex
KAYAK WEIGHT: 39 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 400 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 127 inches, W: 37 inches
SEATING: 2 people excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Inflatable, 3GA Vinyl
FEATURES: Removable Seats, Footrests, Portable, Mounting Brackets
SUITED TO: 1 Dog; Small/Medium/Large Dogs

PROS

  • Easily portable
  • Durable
  • Spacious
  • Mounting brackets

CONS

  • Paddles could be improved
  • Rod holders angled inward

SEA EAGLE 370 Pro Kayak

General Impression

The Sea Eagle 370 pro has an extremely high weight capacity which also makes this kayak very safe and stable. Having room for 3 people – this kayak would be better suited to two passengers with one or two dogs.

Having two skegs on the bottom of the kayak allows for easier tracking and better speed. The setup is very fast considering inflation only takes about 10 minutes. So, paddlers can get on the water and enjoy the day in a hurry.

Specifications

BRAND: Sea Eagle
KAYAK WEIGHT: 33 pounds
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 650 pounds
DIMENSIONS: L: 150 inches, W: 34 inches
SEATING: 3 people excluding dogs
DESIGN & MATERIALS: Inflatable, K80 PVC
FEATURES: Lightweight, Stable, Multiple Chambers, Drain plugs
SUITED TO: 1-2 Dogs; Small/Medium/Large Dogs

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • High weight capacity
  • Spacious
  • Great tracking

CONS

  • Can wear over time
  • Valve cap retainers can break

BEST KAYAKS FOR DOGS
Buyer's Guide

When searching for the best kayak for dogs there are various aspects buyers will want to consider. In this section, we will help provide some clarification on what to look for and how to narrow your choices.

Type

Sit in kayaks

A sit-in kayak generally refers to a slender, more narrow design that is closed aside from the cockpit. The cockpit is a circular cut out where the user sits. 

When studying our dog friendly kayaks review readers will find these are avoided as the dimensions make them less stable and there is limited to no space for your pet to roam.

Sit on top kayaks

Sit on top kayaks are a more open and spacious alternative. They tend to be relatively flat with recesses for seating, footrests, and storage.

This design makes them an excellent choice for the best kayaks for dogs as they are far more stable. The open seating makes entry and exit a breeze for both the user and their dogs as well as providing plenty of space for your dog to sit comfortably and even move around in some instances. 

Inflatable kayaks

As a side note, it is worth mentioning that many inflatable kayaks tend to have a design similar to a canoe with two large, inflated pontoons. These pontoons appear on either side of the user with a floor and seating space connecting the two. 

These kayaks tend to be very stable and have a high weight capacity, making them another option for dog lovers. When opting for inflatable kayaks be sure to check the material is capable of withstanding the wear and tear of bringing your dogs on board.

Design

Inflatable kayaks

Inflatable kayaks may seem like a risky decision when considering the excitement of our dogs in combination with sharp nails and teeth, however, concerns can be alleviated by choosing the right product. When looking for the best inflatable kayak for dogs be sure to take note of the material used for construction as many options use heavy-duty, durable plastics to avoid punctures.

The best inflatable kayaks for dogs find a balance between durability, ease of portability, and storage. Being able to load the kayak in the trunk of your car or store it in the closet at home is a must for some buyers and is something to consider. Inflatables are also far more lightweight which appeals to many people who may be solo travelers and could have difficulty maneuvering heavier options.

Additionally, inflatable kayaks tend to be cheaper than others of different designs. However, they don’t tend to have as long of a lifespan as their hard-shell counterparts.

Hard-shell kayaks

Hard-shell kayaks are molded into a single solid piece, usually using a high-density plastic or polyethylene. This manufacturing process makes them extremely durable meaning they will last for years to come, making them some of the best kayaks for dogs.

Although hard-shell designs can be pricier than inflatables the increased durability is very apparent in these models. 

Being crafted into a solid piece does mean that portability can become tricky. They are substantially heavier than inflatables and occupy more space for transportation and storage. But for many, these issues are easily averted with the installation of a rack on their vehicle for transportation as well as in their home or garage for storage. Also, as many kayakers tend to share the experience with friends and family the added weight is easily managed with multiple people.

Size

When choosing the appropriate size for the best kayak for you and your dog, the decision will be influenced by multiple factors. 

While larger kayaks will be heavier and take up more space, this does not come without added benefits. Increased length and width not only provide more space for comfort but will also increase the weight capacity of the boat. This allows for the possibility of multiple dogs, larger pets, and possibly the addition of some kayaking buddies along the way. Also bear in mind if you would like to have a dog kayak seat, a kayak dog deck, or install a kayak platform for dogs, buyers should want to consider larger options.

On the other hand, smaller kayaks will provide ease of handling when it comes to portability, yet space and weight capacity will decrease along with the size. This is great for those who have small or medium-sized dogs and tend to only have one person per kayak, but it can be a limiting factor when choosing the number of companions, both canine and human, that you can bring along.

One other thing to consider is the stability of the kayak. Wide flat bottoms tend to offer the most stable designs and are a key factor when searching for the best kayak for dogs. Whether it’s due to having a large dog onboard or an overly excited pup – be sure to pick a kayak wide and stable enough to withstand the shifts in weight.

Safety

Of course, safety for users and man’s best friend will be at the forefront of our thoughts when choosing the right kayak. After choosing the appropriate size, type, and material which are all safety factors in themselves, there are other features that you may want to consider.

Storage space both dry and wet can be priceless when bringing along food, water, emergency equipment, or additional flotation.

Consider the ease of entry and exit not only from the shore but also in the water. Whether it’s the possibility of capsizing, or you and your dog just want to cool off and go for a swim while on the water. Having a kayak that is easy to get yourself and your dog back on to is key.

Additionally, buyers will want to check the availability and effectiveness of things such as drainage plugs for any excess water that may enter the boat. For inflatables be sure to choose a kayak that has multiple air compartments, should one of them fail the boat will stay afloat.

BEST KAYAKS FOR DOGS
FAQs

How can I kayak with my dog?

Kayaking with your dog is pretty straight forward when you choose the right kayak for your purpose. Having one of the best kayaks for dogs will make your life a lot easier when introducing your pet to this newfound adventure.

Just be sure to check your dog is comfortable with the water, pack the appropriate gear and safety equipment, and start with easy conditions. 

Pick a calm and flat environment to familiarize your dog with the feeling. Also, consider starting with short trips. Once you have an idea of how your dog will respond you can undertake new challenges.

If you’re still unsure consider kayaking with dog seats or possibly building a dog platform for kayaks that can help ease any remaining stress your pet has.

What other gear do I need to kayak with my dog?

In addition to your kayak and paddles, you will want to bring along the appropriate gear and supplies for both comfort and safety.

Consider things such as sun protection, pack plenty of food and water for yourself and your pet, first aid supplies, life jackets, and flotation.

Also don’t hesitate to bring along dog toys for some added fun and even cameras, fishing poles and other accessories such as dry bags can be a great option for getting the most out of your experience.

Does my dog need training to go into a kayak?

Your dog will not need any specific training for kayaking, but you will want to be sure they understand a few basic commands and aren’t too anxious or energetic on the boat.

Start by taking your dog to the pool or beach to see how they respond to the water and even introduce them to the kayak on dry land.

Be sure to focus on simple instructions that will maximize your enjoyment and safety on the water. As long as your pet responds when called and will follow commands such as ‘sit’ and ‘stay’ you shouldn’t have any problems.

How do I keep my dog safe while kayaking? And how do I make the kayak slip-proof for dogs?

There are multiple steps you can take to ensure the safety of your best friend on your trips.

The above-mentioned supplies such as food, water, and first aid kits are a must both for your safety as well as your dogs.

Invest in some extra things that can easily slip the mind such as a life vest for your dog, dog sunscreen, and possibly a dog umbrella or some form of shade.

An excellent addition to improve comfort and safety is the installation of a kayak dog outrigger or a kayak dog platform.

Many kayakers who bring their dogs along opt to add anti-slip or slip-proof surfaces to their kayaks. This can be easily done with the purchase of slip-proof tapes and pads for added traction.

What is the best kayak for small dogs?

The best kayak for small dogs will be one that offers enough space for the paddler and their furry friend to ride along comfortably. For those who have smaller dog species, they may opt for an easy to use, lighter, and smaller option such as the Lifetime Tamarack kayak.

These kayaks track through the water easily, are fast and durable, and have more than enough stability and space for one person and a small dog.

See our best kayaks for dogs review above for more information and help with available choices.

What is the best kayak for big dogs?

When choosing the best kayak for big dogs be sure to opt for a kayak with ample weight capacity and stability.

With the added weight on the paws, buyers will also want to look for an extremely tough and durable material used for construction. 

Many people who bring their larger dogs along kayaking will opt for a 2- or 3-person kayak which offers plenty of stability, a high weight capacity, and enough space so kayakers and dogs can relax and remain comfortable on the water.

Kayaks such as the Pelican River Gorge 130x Tandem has everything you need and has landed as our top choice for the best kayak for big dogs.

How many people can paddle a dog-friendly kayak?

This all comes down to various factors such as the number of people on board, the size and number of dogs, and also the size of the kayak.

An increase in weight and size will require more effort to paddle through the water, however, the best kayak brands are designed to alleviate this with streamlined designs.

In calm conditions, even a single person can paddle larger models with their dogs on board (albeit maybe a little slower than having two people on board).

The best option is to get a kayak that is best for your purposes based on environment and weight requirements.

Are dog kayaks fast?

Many of the fastest kayaks available are not well suited to bringing dogs along due to their decreased volume and narrow streamlined design.

The best kayaks for dogs will find a balance between speed, tracking, stability, and of course comfort. Many of the best models are fast enough and allow users and dogs to sit back and enjoy the experience.

Be sure not to sacrifice features such as safety and stability in exchange for speed when selecting a kayak. With a bit of research into the best kayak for dogs, you will be able to find a well-rounded kayak that is best for your intended purposes.

Reach Out

As always, we create our content with you, fellow adventurers, in mind. So, how’d we do? Did you find this informative? Did it help you make a decision? Did we miss anything? We’d love to hear from you below. Thanks for reading and we hope your next adventure is a great one!

David Stefanoski

David Stefanoski is an avid outdoorsman who loves to explore the deepest, most exciting crevices of nature and then write about them. From the maximum depth that a scuba suit can go, to the maximum heights that his legs will take him, David enjoys the outdoors in its warmest, sunniest days on the prairie, to the iciest, dampest little spots in Eastern Europe. After 15 years of trudging, his favorite outdoorsman activity is still chopping wood due to his large body size. He says it's like splitting toothpicks!

Leave a Reply