The Benefits of Kayak for Your Dog
Kayaking with a dog is an activity that we will both appreciate, during its performance, both our four-legged friends, like us, will enjoy physical activity outdoors and in the aquatic environment.
These last three elements, physical activity, the outdoors, and the aquatic environment are tremendously beneficial for both, although, in this article, we will focus on the benefits that kayaking with a dog brings to our furry friends.
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FOR GREATER SAFETY, CONSIDER BUYING A LIFE JACKET FOR YOUR DOG
Basically, the benefits can be considered, broadly speaking, as physical and mental, since avoiding a sedentary life will help improve the overall health of our dog, and thus strengthen his body against possible respiratory conditions, heart disease, diabetes, and even arthritis.
But the list not only ends with the benefits for physical health, and as we mentioned, going rowing with our dog or bitch will also bring them happiness since nothing makes our dog happier than the fact of sharing time and activity with us.
Thus, kayaking with a dog will help our furry to grow mentally healthier, and less exposed to behavioral and emotional problems such as aggressiveness, antisocial behaviors, stress, anxiety or depression. Nothing very far from what will happen to us too, right?
If we think it is convenient or we have doubts as to whether it could have an opposite effect on our dog or bitch, we advise consulting our trusted veterinarian. And we must remember that although most dogs are crazy about swimming and water in general, our dog or bitch may not want to go out rowing the first day, and we should never force him to do it, otherwise, we can provoke the reactions totally contrary to all the benefits exposed so far.
If we do it without forcing our dog, the kayak with him will also bring a mutual benefit, and it is that you will greatly strengthen your bond since there is nothing like sharing activity and time with our dog to get to know each other better, in both directions, you will know better how your dog expresses his emotions, doubts and nerves because he will also have them, at least the first times you go out to row together.
Derived from the latter, your bones, the cardiovascular and muscular system will be strengthened, kayaking with a dog, but above all swimming will help you a lot in these aspects, have no doubts, your dog or bitch will grow much healthier!
On a mental and psychological level, his cognitive capacity and his proprioception will be greatly increased, especially the latter, since physical exercise brings enormous benefits to your dog and will greatly exercise his balance since he must constantly adapt the position of his legs when rolling the kayak.
His sociability both with you and with other dogs will be greatly enhanced, but especially the benefit you will see reflected in the communication between the two since he will be more interested in your movements, little by little and due to the tightening of your bond, your dog will be more obedient.
DISCOVER ALL THE ADVICE FOR PRACTICING KAYAKING WITH A DOG WITH US!
Last but not least, whether you have a long trip to get home, or if you have it close by and you get to it quickly, your dog or bitch will rest much more upon arrival, grateful to have shared the beautiful activity of kayaking with you.
ALWAYS REMEMBER, TO PRACTICE KAYAK WITH A DOG
- Never force him, your dog may need some time to adjust.
- Start little by little, think of it as a game, if necessary, bring toys.
- Always choose a stable kayak with room to start.
- Starting at sea may not be the best option, look for a lake, swamp, or area with calm waters.
- Dress your dog in a life jacket, it will help you get him back into the kayak.
Kayaking with our dog
You should definitely try the dog kayak. Whether you’ve been kayaking for a while or are relatively new to the sport, it’s a pain when you have to leave your dog behind every time he falls into the water.
Before we get into the details of the training needed for dog kayaking, let’s go over what you need for a safe kayaking experience with your dog.
The best kayaks for dogs
There are three things to keep in mind when deciding on a kayak that works best for your pup:
Stability – You want something stable that moves well so that the back and forth motion does not tip the kayak.
Size – When he’s enjoying the cruise and lounging next to you, you want a decent-sized kayak so you can fit comfortably.
Weight – Having your friend with you adds extra weight. So you want a lightweight inflatable kayak to paddle easily when possible, it’s not going to be that easy.
The two-seater kayak “Hook”
This dog kayak is our top recommendation. It has its own unique advantages and very few disadvantages, as you can see:
- It has adequate space for a person and a dog or two, depending on its size.
- It is constructed of strong material and can withstand dog claws.
- It is cheap and versatile.
- It has high usability and you can use it in many situations, not only with your dog.
- You can see more about the Hook two-seater kayak in our store.
Some kayaks are not suitable for dogs, so if you are looking to upgrade or buy your first kayak, you will want to find one that will comfortably fit both. The correct type will depend on the size of your dog and how much equipment you plan to bring with you.
You may want a kayak that your dog can proudly ride on the bow, or is more comfortable cradled by your feet. Also, take into account your dog’s personality when choosing one.
Dogs that are very moved are always best close by so that you can grab their collar if necessary, while a calm dog that is not going to move a lot can travel calmly seated in the bow. Finding the best kayak for dogs will really depend on the size of your dog, your budget, and if you are planning to bring someone else with you.
