Kayaking is a huge sport that dominates the lake world and also happens to be a sport almost anyone can get involved with. Everything from fishing to long lake paddles, ocean kayaking, and overnight camping is possible with the right kayak at hand. In recent years, many people are going even further and bringing along their dogs on exciting kayaking trips.
It might sound like a lot of trouble to bring your pup along, but with a little training, it’s not so difficult. Dogs who enjoy the water will quickly pick up on the sport and happily enjoy time with you. As more people choose to bring their dogs on the water, some kayak manufacturers are even creating kayaks specifically made to have a dog along with you.
Today, we review the best kayaks for dogs. We’ve looked at all the options and ten rose to the top. We’ll explain more about what to expect with each of these kayaks so you can make a purchase and be out on the water as quickly as you want to be.
Best Kayaks for Dogs - Our Top Picks
Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak Pro Package
- PROFESSIONAL 3-PERSON outdoor kayak is ideal for Class III whitewater and is easy to store and carry while being able to support a maximum weight up to 650 pounds
- BUILT WITH DURABLE MATERIALS with an I-beam floor to increase rigidity that withstands the unexpected outdoor elements; Weighs 32 lbs. and packs down small enough to fit in the smallest car trunk
The Sea Eagle is an inflatable tandem kayak that can be used by one, two, or three adults. It also has plenty of room for one or two adults to bring the family dog along with them. This kayak weights only 32 pounds when deflated and is easy to transport, assemble, and inflate. The kayak’s ease of use and portability are two of the top reasons people choose it above other kayaks. The pro package comes with everything you need to start boating from paddles to a foot pump, storage bags, and high-quality seats. It is the perfect option for someone who want a durable, functional, but affordable kayak for hanging with the dog.
Pros:
- Created for supreme stability with I-beam tubes for a floor
- Tear resistant, durable, and capable of holding up to 650 pounds
- Can hold up to two adults and a dog or child
Cons:
- May be slower than some prefer
Perception Kayak Pescador Pro Sit-On-Top for Fishing
- Premium Fishing Experience: The Perception Pescador Pro 10 is a sit-on-top kayak designed for the recreational angler. Equipped with large front and rear storage areas, it provides ample space for all your fishing gear and personal items.
- Comfort First: This fishing kayak features an adjustable lawn chair seat, offering a high level of comfort during those long hours on the water. This allows you to focus more on the fish and less on discomfort.
The Perception Pescador is a recreational kayak that offers lots of extras for anyone who enjoys kayak fishing. This is a hard-shell sit-on-top model that is 12 feet long and only about 50 pounds. It features a dry storage near the seat and a sealed front hatch. There is also plenty of room for your rods and a paddle rest. The length of the kayak means that it tracks better and goes farther with each stroke than a ten-foot kayak. There are also scupper plugs in the bottom to drain any water that splashes up into the kayak. Those who enjoy longer trips will appreciate the size and comfort of this kayak.
Pros:
- Extreme stability through design and engineering
- Tracks well in any sort of water
- Created to offer everything needed for fishing
Cons:
- May not be suitable for large dogs
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
The Coleman Colorado has adjustable seats and can easily accommodate two people or one person and a dog of any size. It has been constructed of 18-gauge PVC which means it’s durable enough to handle river bottoms as well as dog pays. The fabric is sturdy and durable, and the craft will tread water quite well. This kayak comes with fishing rod holders and fittings for a Sevylor trolling motor. It’s an affordable option for those who want to fish and roam the water with their pet without worrying about the nail tearing through.
Pros:
- Affordable and durable option for people and pets
- Equipped with rod holders and can take a trolling motor
- Accommodates two adults or one adult and a dog
Cons:
- Can be a bit slow in the water
Perception Hi Life Kayak & Standup Paddleboard
- The Perception Hi Life 11′ combines the best of a kayak and SUP, offering remarkable stability and versatility; designed for maximum enjoyment on the water, whether you’re paddling or standing up.
- Features a unique rear swim platform, allowing easy reentry from the water; the ideal companion for water fun, be it at the lake, a slow-moving river, or your favorite fishing spot.
This kayak is unlike any other you will find. This is a standup paddleboard that can easily be used as a kayak. Adding pads and a comfortable kayak seat offers the added protection you need for a long day on the water. It’s also a great vessel to bring your dog along with you. When you don’t feel up to kayaking, you can grab a paddle board paddle and use it in a totally different way. It has a low weight while keeping a reasonable carrying capacity for convenience. The unibody design offers lots of softness and limits the amount of seams.
Pros:
- Built in storage underneath the seat
- Comes with a removable skeg fin
- Large platform for kayaking with a dog
Cons:
- Lower weight capacity than some kayaks
Lifetime 10’ 2-Person Tandem Fishing Kayak with Paddles
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Lifetime Fishing Kayak is that it can be used solo or tandem, depending on your needs. It’s a great boat to take a large dog out with. It has a sturdy, low hull that facilitates sitting sidesaddle or standing while you reel in a big fish on the water. There are two molded paddle rests and four rod holders so you can fish as much as you want. There is also a rear hatch that will hold your gear and keep it dry. Two oars come with the kayak, which is a bargain when you consider the strength and durability offered.
Pros:
- Mounts for poles and molded paddle rests
- Sturdy low hull for standing or sitting to fish
- High stability and durability
Cons:
- Quite heavy and only has a single handle
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Vapor 10 Recreational Kayak
- Ultimate Comfort: Experience enhanced comfort with the sit-inside design suitable for adults and kids, perfect for long hours on the water.
- Versatile and Stable: Enjoy optimal performance in various water conditions with exceptional stability and maneuverability.
This recreational kayak has plenty of room for a person and their favorite pet. It offers great control and tracking, especially in ponds and lakes. It weights under 50 pounds and has carrying handles molded into the back and front of the body, which makes for simple transport. The seat can be adjusted on the fly using a cord gripper to ensure the most comfort. This kayak even comes with a cup holder to keep a water or beer at hand. There is a drain plug in the bottom that can easily remove any water that gets into the kayak while you enjoy your time on the water.
Pros:
- Large cockpit and plenty of room for a dog
- Easy to handle and carry out of the water
- Comes with cup holder for extra convenience
Cons:
- Some find the seat is uncomfortable
Ocean Kayak 12-Feet Malibu Two-Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
Another great kayak for those who want to spend time with their dogs is the Ocean Kayak Malibu. It is 12 feet long and has a sit-on-top design. It can hold up to two adults plus a dog or a small child. It can also hold up to 425 pounds easily. The seats can be arranged for one paddler, two paddlers, or even three paddlers. It’s also made in a stackable design if you happen to need two or more of this specific kayak. This is a stable boat with three mold-in seat wells, gear straps, and handles. It’s easy to transport and just as simple to use on any kind of water.
Pros:
- Holds two people and a dog and up to 425 pounds
- Three different seating options for comfort
- Stackable for easy storage for those who own more than one
Cons:
- Clips may not last a long time
Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak with Deluxe Package
- PROFESSIONAL 3-PERSON outdoor kayak is ideal for Class III whitewater and is easy to store and carry while being able to support a maximum weight up to 650 pounds
- BUILT WITH DURABLE MATERIALS with an I-beam floor to increase rigidity that withstands the unexpected outdoor elements; Weighs 32 lbs. and packs down small enough to fit in the smallest car trunk
If you’re looking for an inflatable kayak, the Sea Eagle 330 is one of the best options on the market. It has everything you need to get on the water minutes after receiving your package. It comes with two paddles, two seats, a carrying case, high-output air pump, and a repair kit. The inflatable is durable and can easily handle dog paws. It weights only 26 pounds when deflated and can be tossed in the trunk of any car for transport. It also has a weight limit of 500 pounds which is more than enough for a person and their favorite dog.
Pros:
- Comes with everything you need
- Super light and easy to transport
- Made of puncture resistant material
Cons:
- Seat can be hard to secure
Elkton Outdoors Tandem Fishing Kayak
- BUILT TO LAST: Constructed with a rotomold injected body to ensure your tandem kayak will never crack or puncture and will last for years to come!
- EASY TO TRANSPORT: Two carry handles allow for convenient transportation in our kayaks for adults. Fits easily in the bed of a truck or a trailer!
This inflatable kayak is designed for fishing and has plenty of room for your dog to come along. It’s very compact when uninflated and can be transported in any car. The kayak is created of 170-gauge PVC, which is rip resistant. That means your dog’s paws won’t cause any tears even when on the water for an extended period of time. The kayak comes with four rod holders and has tons of storage, including six mesh pockets for your most important gear. It comes with oars, carry bag, repair kit, and a foot pump so you can get out and go as soon as it comes in the mail.
Pros:
- Rip resistant and durable material
- Includes four rod holders and plenty of storage space
- Inflation is quick and simple
Cons:
- May not be the fastest kayak out there
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Vapor 10 Recreational Kayak
- Ultimate Comfort: Experience enhanced comfort with the sit-inside design suitable for adults and kids, perfect for long hours on the water.
- Versatile and Stable: Enjoy optimal performance in various water conditions with exceptional stability and maneuverability.
If you are more interested in a sit-inside kayak, the Vapor 10 is a fantastic choice. There’s more than enough room for you as well as your furry buddy. Your dog can sit in front of you or a small dog can sit in the cargo area behind your seat. The kayak is made of a single layer or linear polyethylene that can withstand any scratching your dog does to the boat. This kayak is comfortable and easy to control with a large cockpit. It features comfortable thigh and knee pads, padded seat, foot brace, and a paddle rest. The 325 pound capacity should be more than enough for you and your pet.
Pros:
- Large cockpit features lots of room for a dog
- Cup holder comes standard
- Light and easy to transport
Cons:
- Seat is uncomfortable to some users
Choosing the Perfect Kayak for Your Pooch
If you have a dog that is quite large, a tandem kayak might be the best option for you. However, there are many paddlers who have trained their pets to perch on the bow of an inflatable or sit near their legs in a hard-shell kayak. On the other hand, tandem kayaks offer more room which means a more comfortable experience for both you and your pet. The only downfall is that some of these are more expensive than a one-person kayak would be.
Those looking for an affordable option will find that sit-on-top options are less expensive and can be easy to use. These are often made for recreational purposes and can be used for just about anything you could want. They also can offer a higher degree of comfort than other kayaks on the market. They don’t make the process confining and can be more flexible, which lets your pet feel more comfortable enjoying the water with you.
Related: Best Canoe
Kayaking Gear for Canines
There is some gear you will need to ensure your dog is safe and comfortable while on the water with you. The most essential item is a life vest for safety. Even a dog that is a very good swimmer should have a life vest to avoid drowning is an accident or emergency happens.
It’s also important to have a leash available. Some people recommend bringing two in case one of them is lost or misplaced. You can add a harness to the leash for more flexibility. This can be helpful if your dog falls into the water and you need to quickly pull them up to the safety of your kayak. However, you should never tie your dog to the boat while it is in the water. This removes the ability to swim if there is any danger.
Treats and toys can also be helpful to have on hand, especially when you get back on dry land and want to reward your dog for their good behavior when out on the water. This can be a crucial part of training your dog in how to act on the water. It can also give your dog a reason to keep up the great behavior the next time you take them on the lake or ocean.
There are several great choices on the market if you need a kayak to share with your pet. From kayaks with reinforced material to protect against dog claws to spacious cockpits so you and your pet can kayak in comfort, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Any of the kayaks above will fit the bill, but what matters is what appeals to you and fits your needs.