Best kayak for dogs

You need to invest in the best dog-friendly kayak if you want to explore the waters with your furry friend. Buying the best kayak for dogs will make your time on the waters easy and more comfortable.

Production of kayaks is also on the rise as more and more people are taking their dogs on kayaking trips. This has lead to an increase in more stable and comfortable dog-friendly kayaks in the market. As a result, this makes the entire equation of choosing a kayak for dogs even more complex.

To make things easy for you, we have compiled a list of the best kayaks for dogs. We have also listed the pros, cons, and prepared a detailed comparison chart that will assist you in making the right decision.

The Best Pawsome Kayaks

1. Sevylor Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak

Easy to inflate, comfortable, and durable, the Sevylor Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak is a great choice for either 1 person or 1 person + a dog. It has an 18-gauge PVC, tarpaulin bottom, and a tough nylon cover that provides superior protection.

This fishing kayak has two adjustable seats that will provide good comfort for you and your dog. You also have the option to move the seats closer and further from your pet. If your hands get tired by paddling, you can place the paddles in the holder and add the Sevylor trolling motor (need to purchase separately).

Pros

• Good maneuverability
• Strong and durable
• Portable

Cons

• Customer service issues

2. Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks

The Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks is spacy, comfortable, durable, and one of the good-rated kayaks for dogs in the market. It can easily hold 2-persons (1 person or 1 dog), and even 3 can fit in.

It is made of strong materials such as K80 PVC, asymmetrical blade, and aluminum shaft to make the kayak more stable and durable. The 5-tube i-beam gives good stability to the rider. Plus, it can be used by adults of any age and experience level.

Pros

• Easy to inflate
• Good legroom
• Easy to transport

Cons

• May be difficult to control

3. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

If you are searching for a kayak with a good amount of space and comfort, then the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak will not disappoint you. This kayak is great for experiencing mild rivers and lakes with 2 adults or 1 adult and a dog. The kayak is made of heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl that can easily withstand your dog’s claws.

Inflation and deflation are quite good and will give you plenty of time to reach safety if any one of the chambers has a leak. You will get good directional stability with adjustable seating and backrest. Also, the bright yellow color of the kayak will help you be seen in case of an emergency.

Pros

• Easy to inflate
• Good legroom
• Durable material

Cons

• Sinkable issues

4. 10 ft. Lifetime Manta Tandem Kayak

Another stable and reliable kayak on our list is the 10 ft. Lifetime Manta Tandem Kayak. The tunnel hull design of this kayak gives good stability and has the capability to hold one person and a medium-sized dog.

The kayak is made of linear low-density polyethylene and two padded backrests. You can also add a motor mount provision (sold separately) where you can add an electric trolling motor. The attraction is the hull design which makes it one of the best watercraft for kayaking with a dog.

Pros

• Good for beginners
• Extremely stable
• Great balance

Cons

• Low legroom

5. Old Town Vapor 12 Angler Recreational Kayak

The Old Town Vapor 12 Angler provides a good capacity of room to bring your dog with you. It has a roomy tank where you can store your gear. The adjustable flex pad of the vessel provides a good amount of stability and comfort. It also has a thigh pad and a support track that gives an extra layer of comfort for the padding.

It also has an enclosed cockpit which makes it an ideal choice while padding in colder weather conditions and will keep your dog safe and dry.

Pros

• Covered cockpit to shelter small dogs
• Good storage space
• Good features for the price range

Cons

• Not suitable for big dogs

6. Sun Dolphin Journey 10-Foot Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak

If you are a beginner who wants to take your pet on a kayaking trip, the Sun Dolphin Journey is an affordable and easy-to-use option. It has a spacious and comfortable sitting area with an adjustable foot brace and paddle holder.

This kayak uses high-density UV-protected polyethylene which makes it more durable and sturdy. It also comes with a portable accessible carrier (PAC) which provides a good amount of storage space.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Good stability
• Great paddling

Cons

• Tracking issues

7. Perception Hi Life 11 | Sit on Top Kayak

Perception Hi Life is a quality, highly stable, and comfortable kayak. It can fit one person and a pet without any problem, making it yet another great watercraft for kayaking with a dog.

The hull uses a polyethylene material which gives extra durability. It also has a rear swim deck with handles to easily get back on board after swimming. The seat comes in two positions (upright and recline) for easy adjustment. Plus, it has an attractive drink holder to place your favorite beverage.

Pros

• Comfortable seat
• Good stability
• Convenience to sit and stand

Cons

• Customer service issues

Comparison of the Best Kayaks for Dogs

Note - Ratings were collected at the time of writing and may vary. 

Conclusion

Here are our top picks from the list.

• Most affordable kayak for dogs - Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
• Total beginner at kayaking with a pet - Lifetime Manta Tandem
• Best overall kayak for dogs - Sevylor Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak

Kayaking with dogs is becoming more popular as there are plenty of models available in the market which makes things more safe and comfortable. Here are some of the points you need to keep in mind when you go kayaking with your dog.

• Choose a kayak big enough where your dog can move around comfortably
• Kayak must have extra storage for dog gear and food
• Weight capacity must be good enough to hold the weight of you and your dog
• Select one based on your dog’s size, temperament, and breed (Sit-in, sit-on-top, tandem, or single). Avoid buying a sea and whitewater kayak as they are not dog-friendly
• Use the leash only on dry land
• Don’t forget to buy a life vest for your dog, carry sunscreen, enough water, and food. Never tie your dog to the kayak. Make sure to stick to calm waters and prepare your dog before the trip. If your dog is disobedient, it is not safe to take them on the trip
• In case your dog has any medical conditions, talk to your veterinarian before you take them on the trip. You can even go the extra mile to get a pet insurance

To summarize, go through the features of the kayaks and keep the above points in mind before you make an investment. We hope that our blog will help you find the perfect kayak for you and your dog.