It doesn\u2019t matter if you\u2019re looking for a big boat for open water or a simple inflatable for the local lake, you\u2019ll find a boat you can paddle with confidence below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Kayaks for Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBest Sit-On-Top Kayak for Dogs: Ocean Kayak Scrambler<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/1065871_alt02-705x427.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThere are several stable sit-on-top designs<\/strong> that I\u2019d feel comfortable paddling with a dog onboard like the Sun Dolphin Bali SS <\/strong>and the Old Town Vapor<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut the Scrambler from Ocean Kayak is bigger and wider<\/strong> than these two making it a better fit for dogs of all sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe tri-form hull will allow you to handle ocean swells while maintaining your stability<\/strong> and maneuverability.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe seat is comfortable and adjustable while the big open deck<\/strong> ensures there\u2019s enough room for you and your furry friend no matter how much they want to move around.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere are two large storage compartments<\/strong>, one in the bow and stern. But they\u2019re open-air hatches where gear must be secured by bungee cords.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis and the sit-on-top design make the Scrambler a better choice for warm water paddling<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Uninspiring top speed<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Great stability on the ocean<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lots of deck room<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- No dry storage space<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Fishing Kayak for Dogs: Lifetime Two-Person Fishing Kayak<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Lifetime-angler-100.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck price on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother big boat with plenty of room<\/strong>, this two-person model from Lifetime actually has enough room for three people.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAble to be paddled solo or tandem<\/strong>, you can rest assured that you and your pup won\u2019t feel cramped out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere isn\u2019t much in the way of extra features on this stripped-down design, but you will find three fishing pole holders <\/strong>and the boat does come with two basic paddles<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNo other custom options have made their way into this design, although that does make it more cost-efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Performance-wise it tracks well through moderate water conditions <\/strong>which is a pleasant surprise for a sit-on-top kayak this stable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Three fishing rod holders but no other custom options<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best on lakes and rivers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 500-pound load capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Inflatable Kayak for Dogs: Sea Eagle 330<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/sea-eagle-330.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck price on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWith a huge load capacity of 500 pounds<\/strong>, this blow-up kayak from Sea Eagle is the perfect inflatable for those with bigger canines.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDespite the bigger size, inflation remains relatively simple<\/strong>. Don\u2019t be surprised if it takes you less than ten minutes to get on the water once you get the hang of it. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThe strong vinyl construction <\/strong>will stand up to the claws (and teeth!) of even the most nervous canine passenger, while the wide hull can handle moderate chop and absorb any waves created by passing motorized vessels.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf it gets too wet, the Sea Eagle 330 comes with optional spray skirts<\/strong> that provide additional protection from rain and wind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Too cramped for two people and a dog<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Massive load capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy to set-up and take-down<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Tandem Inflatable Kayak for Dogs: Intex Explorer K2<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/intex-explorer-K2.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck price on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nAt its best on lakes and rivers,<\/strong> this double inflatable kayak from Intex Explorer is great for couples<\/strong> and their furry mariners.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFeaturing some of the toughest vinyl in the business<\/strong>, the K2 has a puncture-resistant exterior that even the most ambitious dog won\u2019t break through.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOn the water it performs well, especially for an inflatable. The floor has an I-beam construction and the boat comes with a removable skeg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In tandem, this gives the boat excellent rigidity <\/strong>able to absorb waves and turbulent waters while maintaining its course<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThat said, I wouldn\u2019t push it into too challenging waters or open water conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- 400-pound load capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Multiple air tubes with Boston valves for durability and redundancy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy to transport at just 35 pounds when deflated<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our comprehensive Explorer K2 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Ocean Kayak for Dogs: Ocean Kayak Malibu<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Ocean-Malibu-Two-XL.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck price on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nDesigned for families <\/strong>that want to take their younger children paddling, the Malibu from Ocean Kayak has the deck space for two paddlers and a dog without anyone feeling cramped.<\/p>\n\n\n\nA specific middle seat <\/strong>between the two main cockpits is the perfect place for your doggie co-pilot to hang out without getting in your way.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt can also be paddled solo without compromising stability<\/strong>, giving you maximum flexibility no matter who wants to paddle.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOnce on the ocean swells, the Malibu leverages its long 12-foot keel into a stable ride<\/strong> that tracks well as long as you stay below the 425-pound load capacity. <\/p>\n\n\n\nOne of the few drawbacks is the Malibu is a little heavy<\/strong>, checking in at 57 pounds<\/strong> when empty which can make it a tough carry for some solo paddlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Can be paddled solo or tandem<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stable even if your dog is fidgeting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Multiple seat positions depending on how many people are paddling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our detailed Malibu Tandem kayak review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to Choose the Best Kayak with dog seat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/dog-with-pfd-e1585865622966-edited.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDog-Friendly kayak Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Most plastic boats with their tough polyethylene plastic hulls can stand up to a dog\u2019s claws<\/strong> and teeth and suffer at worse minor cosmetic scratches. <\/p>\n\n\n\nOther hard-sided materials like fiberglass aren\u2019t good for dogs<\/strong> however as they\u2019re easily scratched and fiberglass can be easily punctured if stood on or bitten.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re going with a cheaper<\/strong> and easier to transport an inflatable kayak,<\/strong> make sure that it\u2019s well made. Look for a tough vinyl exterior <\/strong>that advertises itself as puncture resistant.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEven if you\u2019re not taking your dog, this is a good idea. Multiple air tubes provide insurance on the water. If one springs a leak the others will allow you to get back to shore without sinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Comfort & Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t know about you, but my dog doesn\u2019t like to sit still for very long when we\u2019re on the water. So when I take him paddling, I want a boat that has enough space for him to safely move, turn, nap, and clean without getting in the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My recommendation is to select a tandem kayak<\/strong> like the Intex K2 or Ocean Kayak Malibu which are tandems that can be safely paddled solo <\/strong>without compromising their performance. This gives your dog a seat all to itself<\/strong> and you won\u2019t have to worry about them hindering your paddle stroke.<\/p>\n\n\n\nStability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Probably the most important thing after durability<\/strong> in a dog-friendly kayak. You can\u2019t expect your canine companion to be perfectly still the entire time you’re out. <\/p>\n\n\n\nFind a boat with a wide beam that will maximize stability<\/strong> and can absorb any sudden shifts in weight distribution. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSome kayaks, usually fishing kayaks<\/a>, are rated as stable enough to stand up in, and if you\u2019re able to get your hands on one of these it may be for the best in case you have to get up to attend to your furry paddle partner. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you just want to paddle on calm water, I\u2019d recommend getting a lake kayak<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFishing vs. Recreational Kayaks for dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
In most cases, you\u2019ll probably be selecting a kayak from one of these two categories. Fishing kayaks tend to make good boats for dogs even if they\u2019re not advertised as such.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThere are several stable sit-on-top designs<\/strong> that I\u2019d feel comfortable paddling with a dog onboard like the Sun Dolphin Bali SS <\/strong>and the Old Town Vapor<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But the Scrambler from Ocean Kayak is bigger and wider<\/strong> than these two making it a better fit for dogs of all sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The tri-form hull will allow you to handle ocean swells while maintaining your stability<\/strong> and maneuverability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The seat is comfortable and adjustable while the big open deck<\/strong> ensures there\u2019s enough room for you and your furry friend no matter how much they want to move around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are two large storage compartments<\/strong>, one in the bow and stern. But they\u2019re open-air hatches where gear must be secured by bungee cords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This and the sit-on-top design make the Scrambler a better choice for warm water paddling<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another big boat with plenty of room<\/strong>, this two-person model from Lifetime actually has enough room for three people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Able to be paddled solo or tandem<\/strong>, you can rest assured that you and your pup won\u2019t feel cramped out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There isn\u2019t much in the way of extra features on this stripped-down design, but you will find three fishing pole holders <\/strong>and the boat does come with two basic paddles<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No other custom options have made their way into this design, although that does make it more cost-efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Performance-wise it tracks well through moderate water conditions <\/strong>which is a pleasant surprise for a sit-on-top kayak this stable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With a huge load capacity of 500 pounds<\/strong>, this blow-up kayak from Sea Eagle is the perfect inflatable for those with bigger canines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite the bigger size, inflation remains relatively simple<\/strong>. Don\u2019t be surprised if it takes you less than ten minutes to get on the water once you get the hang of it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The strong vinyl construction <\/strong>will stand up to the claws (and teeth!) of even the most nervous canine passenger, while the wide hull can handle moderate chop and absorb any waves created by passing motorized vessels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If it gets too wet, the Sea Eagle 330 comes with optional spray skirts<\/strong> that provide additional protection from rain and wind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At its best on lakes and rivers,<\/strong> this double inflatable kayak from Intex Explorer is great for couples<\/strong> and their furry mariners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Featuring some of the toughest vinyl in the business<\/strong>, the K2 has a puncture-resistant exterior that even the most ambitious dog won\u2019t break through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the water it performs well, especially for an inflatable. The floor has an I-beam construction and the boat comes with a removable skeg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In tandem, this gives the boat excellent rigidity <\/strong>able to absorb waves and turbulent waters while maintaining its course<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That said, I wouldn\u2019t push it into too challenging waters or open water conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our comprehensive Explorer K2 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Designed for families <\/strong>that want to take their younger children paddling, the Malibu from Ocean Kayak has the deck space for two paddlers and a dog without anyone feeling cramped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A specific middle seat <\/strong>between the two main cockpits is the perfect place for your doggie co-pilot to hang out without getting in your way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can also be paddled solo without compromising stability<\/strong>, giving you maximum flexibility no matter who wants to paddle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once on the ocean swells, the Malibu leverages its long 12-foot keel into a stable ride<\/strong> that tracks well as long as you stay below the 425-pound load capacity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the few drawbacks is the Malibu is a little heavy<\/strong>, checking in at 57 pounds<\/strong> when empty which can make it a tough carry for some solo paddlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our detailed Malibu Tandem kayak review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Most plastic boats with their tough polyethylene plastic hulls can stand up to a dog\u2019s claws<\/strong> and teeth and suffer at worse minor cosmetic scratches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Other hard-sided materials like fiberglass aren\u2019t good for dogs<\/strong> however as they\u2019re easily scratched and fiberglass can be easily punctured if stood on or bitten.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re going with a cheaper<\/strong> and easier to transport an inflatable kayak,<\/strong> make sure that it\u2019s well made. Look for a tough vinyl exterior <\/strong>that advertises itself as puncture resistant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if you\u2019re not taking your dog, this is a good idea. Multiple air tubes provide insurance on the water. If one springs a leak the others will allow you to get back to shore without sinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I don\u2019t know about you, but my dog doesn\u2019t like to sit still for very long when we\u2019re on the water. So when I take him paddling, I want a boat that has enough space for him to safely move, turn, nap, and clean without getting in the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My recommendation is to select a tandem kayak<\/strong> like the Intex K2 or Ocean Kayak Malibu which are tandems that can be safely paddled solo <\/strong>without compromising their performance. This gives your dog a seat all to itself<\/strong> and you won\u2019t have to worry about them hindering your paddle stroke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Probably the most important thing after durability<\/strong> in a dog-friendly kayak. You can\u2019t expect your canine companion to be perfectly still the entire time you’re out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Find a boat with a wide beam that will maximize stability<\/strong> and can absorb any sudden shifts in weight distribution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some kayaks, usually fishing kayaks<\/a>, are rated as stable enough to stand up in, and if you\u2019re able to get your hands on one of these it may be for the best in case you have to get up to attend to your furry paddle partner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you just want to paddle on calm water, I\u2019d recommend getting a lake kayak<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In most cases, you\u2019ll probably be selecting a kayak from one of these two categories. Fishing kayaks tend to make good boats for dogs even if they\u2019re not advertised as such.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Best Fishing Kayak for Dogs: Lifetime Two-Person Fishing Kayak<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Inflatable Kayak for Dogs: Sea Eagle 330<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Tandem Inflatable Kayak for Dogs: Intex Explorer K2<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Ocean Kayak for Dogs: Ocean Kayak Malibu<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
How to Choose the Best Kayak with dog seat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDog-Friendly kayak Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Comfort & Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Stability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Fishing vs. Recreational Kayaks for dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Pic](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-10-portability-2.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n