5 key elements for introducing your dog to nautical sports

Love to play in the water on hot summer days? Does having your four-legged friend by your side make your aquatic adventures extra special? Read this article for a checklist of key items and accessories that will make your time on the water fun and safe. Whether you love kayaking, paddleboard or canoeing, you’ll be more than ready to make a splash!

brown curly dog wearing life jacket swimming in lake water toward woman kneeling on paddle board

Your level of comfort on the water

First and foremost, you need to make sure that you are fully at ease operating your kayak, paddle board, etc. Practice on your own before you take Doggy with you. Practice falling into the water and climbing back onto your water craft – keep in mind that once your pet is with you, your balance will be put to the test! If needed, take a few lessons to perfect your skills and technique. Finally, make sure you read Transport Canada’s safety rules regarding water crafts.

Equipement

Here's a non-exhaustive list of essential items for your water outings with Doggy.

A life vest

A life vest can save your dog’s life! Make sure they are always wearing their vest when on the water. You can help them get used to their new gear by giving them treats the first few times they try it on. Short play sessions will also help them acclimate to a life vest – and prevent them from freezing up as if they were wearing a straitjacket!

Fresh water

Bring fresh water to make sure Doggy stays hydrated. This is especially important in hot weather. Don’t assume that the water in the lake or river is safe for them to drink.

Dog leash

Don’t forget a dog leash (approximately 6 feet in length). Clip it to one of the rings on their life vest. That way, you can grab Fido more quickly if they decide to go for a swim!

Treats

Last but not least, make sure you have a few treats that your dog likes to eat or chew. You can bring a lick mat covered in frozen food or a bully stick. This will help make the experience more pleasant and will keep them occupied if they get restless!

Pug dog wearing a life jacket on the tip of a yellow kayak with lake and cabin in backgroun

Get your dog used to your water craft

Thinking about just grabbing Doggy and putting them on your paddleboard or in the kayak? This might not be a good idea if you want them to remain calm on the water! The best way to acclimate Doggy to your water craft is to let them discover it while it’s on firm ground.

Let them sniff around and use treats to get them on or in the water craft. Make sure you use your most dynamic voice and let them explore at their own pace. Encourage them. Provide them with dog biscuits, treats, etc. to make the experience an enjoyable one for them. Use commands they already know (sit, lie down, stay). Then gently rock the water craft back and forth to imitate waves and currents.

Finally, grab your oar or paddle and gently move it near Doggy. Keep providing them with treats.

Getting Doggy used to the water

Pick a location where your dog will be able to wade in the water. Somewhere the water gets progressively deeper. Put your life vest on your dog, clip a leash to it then encourage your dog to step into the water. Use your voice, treats and their favourite floating dog toys. Start by tossing a few treats or a toy a short distance away. Once Doggy is comfortable wading in the water, encourage them to swim by throwing the toy a bit farther away.

Practice asking Doggy to come back to you when they’re swimming. Tie a floating toy to a rope, throw it in the water (not too far at first) and once Doggy’s caught it in their mouth, say the command you use when you want them to return to you. If need be, gently tug on the rope attached to the toy. Once they come back, congratulate them and reward them as if they’d just won an Olympic medal! Repeat this step while throwing the toy out a bit farther every time.

Safety first

Before you set out for your water adventure, find out about the quality of the water. If your dog drinks water contaminated by blue-green algae, they might get sick. Also check the rules and regulations to make sure your dog is allowed.

canoe in a lake with a dog lying in the middle and a person sitting at the end holding a paddle

Choose a body of water you already know. Make sure the water is calm and that there are no strong currents. Waterways with accessible shorelines will make the process of launching your water craft easier. They can also be good places to take a break. When you first head out, stick to the shoreline instead of immediately heading out into deep water. At first, keep your excursions short, about 30 minutes. And don’t forget to wear your own life jacket. If Doggy needs to be rescued, you’ll be ready to do so safely.

Always carry a first-aid kit in your waterproof bag. Keep a balm in it to treat cuts on your dog's paw pads that may be caused by shells or sharp rocks. Rinse your dog's paws and inspect them after your activity. Also rinse his ears and coat to avoid infections and skin problems.

On really hot days, schedule your outings early in the morning or at dusk. Make sure you take lots of swim breaks and regularly provide Doggy with fresh water. You can also bring a pet cooling mat or have them wear a cooling vest (under their life vest).