Enjoying water sports activities accompanied by your best buddy is one of the best activities you can do together (especially if you both love water!). One of the most unforgettable moments in life is when your dog had fun and thanking you with those puppy eyes and goofy smile. It is simply worthless.Before you start buying a vessel, you should consider safety and for your beloved dog.
Special considerations from you and your dog play a big factor in size, mass, flexibility, comfort, level of paddling skill, etc. Leaving them at home while you are outside having fun makes you feel guilty about them. Shake off your guilt for here is a list of the best kayaks for dogs:
Table of Contents
Top 8 Best Kayaks for Dogs Reviewed
- Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception Kayaks – Top Pick
- Chinook XP Tandem by Aquaglide – Best Value
- Manta Tandem Kayak by Lifetime – Editor’s Choice
- Excursion Pro K2 Kayak by Intex
- Bali SS 10-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak by Sun Dolphin
- 370 Inflatable Sport Pro by Sea Eagle
- Explorer K2 by Intex
- Malibu Two Tandem Sit-on-Top by Ocean Kayak
#1. Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception Kayaks – Top Pick
Specifications:
- Length: 126 inches
- Width: 32 inches
- Height: 14 inches
- Weight: 57 pounds
- Weight Limit: 325 pounds
- Perfect sit-on-top kayak for dogs
Sit down and relax comfortably by the lake with your Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception. It is one of the best kayaks for dogs because it is very stable and roomy for you and your dog. Even if your dog actively moves around, it will not turn upside down.
This kayak is more suited to calm bodies of water like ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams. The seat is removable and offers a breathable seat arrangement, giving you and your dog exceptional comfort. Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception Kayaks comes with a sturdy blade made for Pescador kayaks.
It has enough length and weight compared to previous models of Perception Kayaks, throwing the best maneuverability in town. Safety is also added with its leak-proof unibody construction with built-in buoyancy.
This kayak offers large openings for the front and rear storage for your personal belongings and other necessary needs of your dog. Its lightweight construction eases transport and storage even with your dog kayaking with you. Other accessories included together with the kayak are integrated accessory rails on each gunwale for fish finders, rod holders, and more. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this kayak is proudly molded and hand-assembled in the United States of America.
Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception is hard to beat, garnering positive reviews on retail stores on being the best kayaks for dogs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suited for tall (6-footer and up) people, a large breed of dogs | Kayak is kind of narrow |
| Foot brace can be adjusted | On the heavy side |
| Well built craft for its size | A bit pricey |
| Removable seats | |
| 5-year warranty |
#2. Chinook XP Tandem by Aquaglide – Best Value
Specifications:
- Length: 134 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Weight Limit: 550 pounds
- 3 Boston valves for convenient inflation/deflation
- Aquaglide proprietary XP floor technology
If you have more than one canine to bring, Chinook XP Tandem by Aquaglide is your best pick. It can accommodate up to three passengers with 550 pounds weight limit. This kayak offers a stable and durable hull with its X-Beam technology. This technology produces a stiff, durable PVC-beam floor and an inflatable chamber for the XP floor.
A generous amount of cargo and passenger space will make your dog happy, as they can cuddle with you while enjoying the scenery. This kayak is best suited for calm water bodies, but it can be up to its task when handling choppy waves and strong currents. Chinook XP Tandem by Aquaglide offers sturdy molded handles
and storage straps for efficient transportation.
Sometimes, your dog does not want to get wet. Splash guards are positioned in the front and back of the vessel to keep you and your dogs dry when the going gets tough.
Once done, you may easily dry and deflate the kayak in the provided storage bag. You may easily store it in a cool and dry place.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable and stable in choppy waters | Hand pump sold separately |
| Plenty of room for your equipment | One year limited warranty |
| Adjustable seats can carry two dogs | Color fades from U.V. rays |
| Portable, fast inflation | Floor bladder issues |
| Bulletproof for dogs |
#3. Manta Tandem Kayak by Lifetime – Editor’s Choice
Specifications:
- Length: 120 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Multiple footrest positions
- Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Rotational Molded Construction
- Weight: 73 pounds
- Weight Limit: 500 pounds
Manta Tandem Kayak by Lifetime made it to the list of the best kayaks for dogs for its versatility and practical function. Its self-bailing scupper holes drain the cockpit area of water efficiently. The molded front carry handle eases the carrying and transport of the vessel.
It will be hassle-free to maintain balance when you are with your excited and eager dog. The kayak offers ultimate stability, thanks to its hull design. The kayak ensures quality throughout the years with its UV-protected Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Rotational Molded Construction.
Consumers love how comfortable you are inside the kayak. This kayak offers multiple footrest positions and adjustable seat back supports. No matter what your size is, you and your dogs will fit into the vessel.
You would not want your things scattered on the lake if ever you flip over, right? Personal items are secured with ditty trays and shock cord straps. If the kayak is defective, you are backed by its 5-year limited warranty for your peace of mind.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| May fit two adults and a medium-size dog breed when needed | Less grip for dogs on the front |
| Sturdy even with an energetic dog as your passenger | Hassle to strap on a vehicle |
| Bright color options to make visual tracking easy | Not the fastest on the lot |
| Perfect for any size of dog breed | Difficult to track straight |
| 5-year limited warranty |
#4. Excursion Pro K2 Kayak by Intex
Specifications:
- Length: 151 inches
- Width: 33 inches
- Height: 18 inches
- Weight: 39.01 pounds
- Weight Limit: 400 pounds
- 3-Ply laminate construction with polyester core
Excursion Pro K2 Kayak by Intex has the best package. From storing, transporting, and fixing it, almost all the things you need are included when buying it. The value for money it places and its durability made it the list for dogs’ best kayaks.
Suitable for two people, this lightweight inflatable kayak is made with super tough laminate material with polyester core. It ensures high impact and abrasion resistance, providing high strength and durability. Fast inflation and deflation can be easily achieved through its high-pressure spring-loaded valves.
Bow and stern with stainless steel rings are equipped in this vessel, making sure bags and other dog necessities are tightly secured. The body construction is tough for your dogs to even break with its 3-ply tough molecular PVC construction. This type of construction can withstand your dog’s sharp claws and teeth. This kayak is also easy to clean as it is oil, gasoline, and saltwater resistant. This kayak will last you for some time.
This kayak includes two removable skews when traversing deep and shallow water. Accessories included are floor mounted footrests, integrated recessed fishing rod holders, and adjustable bucket seats good for two. Other accessories included are a mounting bracket, 86 aluminum oars, high output pump, and a portable storage bag.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rubberized textile materials on the interior | Cramped legroom and balance if both seats are installed |
| Responsive on paddling | Short paddles |
#5. Bali SS 10-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak by Sun Dolphin
Specifications:
- Length: 114.5 inches
- Width: 29.5 inches
- Height: 15.75 inches
- Lightweight design, easy to carry
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Weight Limit: 250 pounds
Bali SS 10-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak by Sun Dolphin fits well on the best kayaks for dogs. This kayak is suitable for a beginner plus the option to bring your pet with you is favorable. Its spacious and comfortable interior includes adjustable foot braces and a paddle holder. This feature is convenient when you and your dog are finding the perfect spot inside the vessel.
This kayak’s body construction is made from fortiflex high-density polyethylene, making it tough and durable. Although the body is a bit narrow, the stable hull made it easier to control during low-speed excursions.
The kayak’s front provides a large room for your dog to sit. The open cockpit makes it convenient for your dogs to climb.
Since the kayak is a bit narrow, there is a chance for you and your dog to tip over during ingress and egress. Practicing it before using it is a must, especially if your dog hates to get wet.
Bali SS 10-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak by Sun Dolphin comes with a Portable Accessory Carrier (PAC) that can be used as your extra boot.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Equipped with Portable Accessory Carrier (PAC) | A tendency to tip with inexperienced paddler or dog |
| Value for money, great for beginners | May get wet because of the self-bailing drill holes |
| Enclosed storage at the rear | Not enough back support for long trips |
| Lightweight and versatile | Hull material scratches easily. |
| Spacious interior | Carry handles not included |
#6. 370 Inflatable Sport Pro by Sea Eagle
Specifications:
- Length: 156 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Height: 13 inches
- Weight: 32 pounds
- Weight Limit: 650 pounds
- Can hold up to three persons
Since 1968, manufacturing this affordable inflatable 370 Sport Kayak by Sea Eagle Sport is a lightweight and portable vessel. It is ideal for large breed dog owners as they can seat on their own. The 370 Sport Kayak handles waves and currents easily and can take scrapings of rough surfaces below well. As an inflatable kayak, it is surprisingly stable, even with two people and a dog. You might find it difficult to find balance at first but, that is part of the adventure.
Its materials and foldable design are compact, easy to clean, and dry out. Storing it inside the house is easy and fits through any car compartment. An option to put lashed down inflatable spray skirts to protect your lower body from getting wet comes with the vessel. It will also protect your personal belongings from getting wet.
The kayak’s hull material is a sun and saltwater resistant and can take all the environment’s beatings well. If you encounter a sticky situation, the open and close drain valves will effectively drain the water out of the kayak.
The kayak is inexpensive because it is alright if it gets damaged or stolen, you can easily replace it. Plus, if you are not the type of person who kayaks often, this is perfect for you. You can buy it and not feel guilty about spending money on it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tough construction. Not easily punctured over dogs’ teeth or claws | Blue dye from the webbing of the seats bleeds when wet |
| Affordable and replaceable if damaged or stolen | Kayaking with two people can be challenging |
| Great stability and comfort | More effort to paddle over water currents |
| Best for large breed dogs | Rides a bit low on the water - difficult to paddle |
| Portable, easy to pack | Storage for the back seat is a little small |
#7. Explorer K2 by Intex
Specifications:
- Length: 123 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Height: 20 inches
- Weight: 35.6 pounds
- Weight Limit: 400 pounds
- Puncture-resistant vinyl inflatable kayak
If you worry about your dog deflating the vessel, this kayak is made tough with vinyl construction. It also has an inflatable l-beam floor for protection on the underside if ever it bottoms out. Comfort and rigidity are top notch on this inflatable kayak.
This kayak is equipped with removable SKEG for directional stability. It also includes a cockpit with an adjustable inflatable seat with a backrest designed for comfort and space for you and your dogs. Seats are good for two adults.
Fully inflating them will not be more than 12 minutes, thanks to the Boston valves on each side of the kayak. Bright yellow color and sporty graphics help visibility on the water, especially when you and your dogs are in danger.
A U.S. Coast Guard I.D. is included when bought. This I.D. is helpful when you lost your kayak or when you got lost with your dog. Coast Guards can easily trace your kayak and will contact the contact person once found. The company also provided a repair patch kit if you and your dog had too much fun and excitement.
Two 86 inches of aluminum oars are still provided. It comes with a hand pump before, but, according to Intex, they do not include it anymore for 2020.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong construction; can withstand dog scratches | Small dogs will have a hard time seeing the view due to low seat position |
| Adequate space for you and your dog | Not stable enough if your dog keeps on moving |
| Adjustable and removable seats | Drifts away easily even with skeg attached |
| Portable, easy to pack | A bit small for tall people |
| Value for money | No hand pump included |
#8. Malibu Two Tandem Sit-on-Top by Ocean Kayak
Specifications:
- Length: 12 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Height: 24 inches
- Weight: 57 pounds
- Weight Limit: 425 pounds
- Versatile, adjustable seats
If you want to try and kayak for the weekend with your dog, Malibu Two Tandem would be the best to buy as it offers the most flexible seating positions with lots of room for storage and cargo.
Malibu Two has three sit-on-top positions – solo, tandem, or tandem paddling with a child or pet. Accommodating your pet and your third friend easily shows how comfortable this Kayak can give. The patented overlapping footwells in the center seat gives you and your dog ample legroom and comfortable foot bracing when kayaking solo or with your pup.
Comfort is at reach with this kayak; a pair of Comfort Plus seats with four-way adjustability accommodates more custom fit for you. Slip prevention and common molded seats are provided for better grip when entering and getting out of the kayak. The high setbacks of the seat also give a comfortable ride for you.
Maneuvering this kayak is easy. The kayak has the right size, not too long, nor short. It is also relatively lightweight, which makes it stable in the ocean. Given its size, paddling is never difficult as your paddles will never cross paths together when going tandem. This feature gives you more fun times, roaming around the area instead of consuming your time trying to figure out how to paddle together efficiently.
Malibu Two Tandem’s storage has blanks ready to be removed for hatches to be installed. It’s simple and ergonomic design has been tested over time, and surely testifies how this kayak will be perfect for you and your fur friend.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stable even when the dog moves around | Somewhat challenging to transport |
| Padded seats good for long excursions | Heavier than usual kayaks |
| Two adults and a dog fit comfortably | Water gets in sometimes |
| Easy to handle in any body of water | Needs proper handling |
| Roomy storage |
Top Pick – Best Kayaks for Dogs
The ultra-sleek design and modern technology of Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception Kayaks will win your dog’s heart. Although it is on the pricey side, the product’s value matches its quality well (even going beyond it). Your dog will be able to comfortably sit in front of the kayak with its adjustable seats. There is also a generous amount of storage for your dog’s needs and your personal belongings.
The performance of this kayak is more than what a recreational kayak offers. The hull construction is tough and can withstand almost anything you and your dog will throw at it. The possibility of ravaging through choppy waves is inevitable. You and your dogs will be alright if this happens.
Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception Kayaks showed a majority of positive reviews for owners who own a pet. They love this kayak for being tough, easy to maneuver, spacious, and versatile. Making it a dog-friendly kayak.
The 5-year warranty it covers will have your peace of mind. After-sales customer service support is top-notch; you may not even be able to use it since it is as durable as ever.
Conclusion
Bringing your fur best friend anywhere you go is such a nice activity to do. Kayaking with them is one activity that your dog will thank you for even without saying a word. It might be difficult to do at first. Your dog might be nervous or afraid of the water unless they love to get wet. Your dog might also feel unsettled, keeping your kayak on nearly tipping.
A little patience and practice on your pet is the key to have a fun and nice kayaking activity. Once you and your dog get the hang of it, you will enjoy kayaking without being too wet.
Pescadors Pro 10.0 by Perception Kayaks is one of the best kayaks for your dog because of all its convenient features and technology it offers. Your dog will be happiest.
Although you have many options to choose from, it all boils down to your personal preference. Your dog might prefer a wider kayak that is comfortable and roomy to have mini zoomies around. The major factor to consider in buying the best kayak for your dog is comfort, stability, and durability. The color and design do not present so much, but you would not want to be the last word for these.
The best kayaks for dogs are the ones that your dog will be comfortable and not scared of. Your dog cannot talk, so it is best if they can have a feel of the kayak first before buying it.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Which type of kayak should you buy first? There seem to be many options.
What type of paddling do you & your dog prefer?
What type of material for the kayak should you consider for your dog?
Which type of kayak should you avoid buying?
Now that you have chosen a kayak, what else should you bring?
Related Resources:
- Best Paddleboards for Kids
- Best Kayaks for Kids
- Best Kayaks for Beginners
- Best Paddleboard for Dogs
- Best Paddleboard for Beginners
- Best Folding Kayaks
- Best Lightweight Kayaks
G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at many of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home, Indonesia. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely coffee and rock climbing, and am also a regular rowing content contributor.
