How to be ready for Canoeing with your Dog

Keeping him safe and keen…

Cool crisps days can be sheer bliss out on the water.  If you’ve been wanting to have your dog join you for this experience we’d love to give you a few tips on getting him ready.

Though you may have visions of joyously canoeing with your dog it doesn’t automatically mean he’ll be up for it. If he has a temperament demonstrating he knows how to be calm, you’re already a step ahead.  If you’ve taken him to the water before and he’s interested, you’re two steps ahead. 

Introductions are best done slowly so have your canoe set up in the yard or even the lounge room with something to steady it.  Invite (don’t force) your dog in with you. Remember that once you progress to the water’s edge there will be other sights and sounds involved such as lapping water and the clunk of the paddle.  There also might be motorboats and or jet skis nearby.

Lifting a dog back into a canoe in deep water is no easy feat (unless he’s really small). So just as all good watersports adventurers practice their recoveries, you’ll need to practice these too in due time. Doing so in shallow waters to begin with, will help you perfect your skills and gain confidence.

Surfaces are important.  Metal surfaces heat up quickly and are too slippery for dogs. If your vessel has a ‘V’ shaped interior make a flat area for him with something to grip under paw.  There is a range of surfaces available but some marine carpet will do the trick.  The flat area is to prevent his feet from being damaged and to provide somewhere he can comfortably rest.

We strongly recommend a P.F.D. for both yourself and your dog.  The gal in this pic is only in 1 foot of water.  (Either that or she’s counting on her camera crew). Get him used to wearing his floatation device prior to canoeing.  Regardless of his swimming ability please consider this compulsory because if you get into trouble you may have your hands full just saving yourself. A snug fit is best and a pet store attendant should be able to advise you in the designs available.  Make sure to get one with a handle on the top so he can be ‘hoisted’ if necessary.

Please bring your leash even if your dog has a fabulous recall but never tie him to the canoe because if it goes down so does he. Don’t forget your doggy bowl, doggy-doo tidy bags, fresh drinking water, sunscreen and a first aid kit.

When having your paddle outing, plan short breaks so your dog gets a chance to break too.  He might be ready to stretch his legs, go potty or may not enjoy lengthy paddles. The more fun he has, the more he’ll want to repeat the exercise.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)