If you love spending time on the water and can’t bear to leave your furry friend behind, paddleboarding with your dog—or even your adventurous cat—can be an unforgettable experience. Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is calm, fun, and beginner-friendly, making it perfect for paddlers and pets alike. Here’s your guide to introducing your dog or cat to paddleboarding safely and joyfully.

Strengthens Your Bond– Sharing a new experience helps you and your pet build trust and connection.

Encourages Outdoor Adventure– Both dogs and some curious cats enjoy exploring nature and water from a safe, stable platform.

Great Exercise– Paddleboarding is low-impact and fun for you, and your pet will get plenty of mental and sensory stimulation.

When paddleboarding with animals, stability is key. Look for:

Wide and Stable Boards (10'–11', 32"–34")– Offers enough space for you and your pet to balance comfortably.

Durable, Non-Slip Deck Pad – Prevents paws from slipping and gives your pet confidence on the SUP board.

Inflatable Paddle Boards (iSUPs)– Lightweight, portable, and more forgiving if your pet jumps on and off.

Funwater all-around inflatable paddle boards are a perfect choice for pet-friendly paddling.

Start on Land

Let your pet sniff and explore the stand up paddle board at home.

Reward them with treats when they sit or stand calmly on it.

Introduce Shallow Water

Move the inflatable board to calm, shallow water so your pet can get used to the floating sensation.

Keep initial sessions short and positive.

Wear Life Jackets

Both you and your pet should wear a well-fitted life vest for safety.

A pet life jacket with a top handle makes it easier to help them back on the board.

Practice Balance and Commands

Teach commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “off” to keep your pet safe and stable.

Start paddling slowly and gradually increase distance as your pet gains confidence.

Yes! While not all cats enjoy water, some adventurous felines can adapt to SUP if trained slowly and gently. Cats often prefer sitting or lying still on the SUP board, so ensure your iSUP is extra stable and start with very short sessions in calm waters.

Paddleboarding with your dog or cat opens up a whole new way to explore nature together. With the right inflatable stand up paddle board, some patience, and proper safety gear, your pet can become the perfect paddling companion. Whether you’re cruising a calm lake or enjoying a coastal adventure, a Funwater paddle board makes every trip fun, safe, and memorable—for both you and your furry friend.