Dog Kayaks Buyer’s Guide
Safety is a condition of no-compromise during water adventures with kayaks. If you have your pet’s safety to take care of besides yours, it becomes a double responsibility.
But how do you ensure that the kayak you want to purchase is the best for you and your pet? Two things:
- Know what type of kayak you are looking for.
- Understand the features that should characterize an ideal kayak for you and your dog’s water adventures.
Types Of Kayaks
The American Kayaking Association considers kayaks to fit into two main categories: the flatwater and the whitewater kayaks.
Whitewater kayaks are those that are built for turbulent sea and ocean waters and require you to edge and maneuver to keep balance, especially when the boat starts to tip. Specific types of white water kayaks include the River Runners, Playboats Old School, and Creekboats.
Flatwater kayaks are built for calm lake and river waters, which allow you to keep it flat most of the time while requiring little maneuvering. Specific flatwater kayaks include sit-on-top, sit-in, pedaling, and touring kayaks.
The reviewed kayaks fit under the flatwater category and specifically within two types: sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks. We give a quick review of these types.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
They are open and easy to get in and out of. They are wide and have good stability, often recommended for those who are novices in kayaking. They are easier to hop back into if you take a swim while kayaking.
Sit-on-top kayaks have ample space and can fit any size of dogs. They are good for fishing since you have all your fishing equipment accessible. The Lifetime Tamarack Angler is a good example.
Sit-In Kayaks
These kayaks have a cockpit that may be enclosed (see the Pelican Maxim) or wide open but rising to your waist level or a little higher so your lower body is encased (see the Sun Dolphin Aruba). Sit-in kayaks can also be convertible, allowing you to use it as an open cockpit kayak or convert it to enclosed decks (see our top pick, the AdvancedFrame Convertible).
Sit-in kayaks have better performance compared to their counterparts, which explains why they cost more. They are good for experts in kayaking who want to do specific paddling styles. If your canine pet fears water, this kayak will offer some shield and make him/her less afraid.
Features Of An Idea Kayak For You And Your Dog’s Water Adventures
While each of these two types has its pros and cons, choosing the best kayak for your water adventure with your dog can be decided on certain general features.
Space
A kayak with seats for you and your dog is ideal for comfort and safety. But dogs may prefer to sit in the cockpit between your legs. A 10-15ft sit-in kayak has more than enough space for you and your large-size dog. One that is a little shorter with an enclosed cockpit may only allow a small dog on your lap.
Durability
This refers to the material used to construct the hull and the interior. Kayaks made of PCV Tarpaulin material are durable. UV-protected high-density Polyethylene is also used often and is highly durable.
Storage
Being on water may require you to bring along swimming gear, some dog food or other necessities. Kayaks with large storage are handy, especially when you intend to be on the water for quite some time. Most kayaks have some storage, but others like the Lifetime Tamarack have plenty of it.
Weight Capacity
If you are looking for a kayak that can accommodate you and your dog, purchase one with high weight capacity. Both our top pick (550lb) and budget pick (400lb) are ideal choices. A 275lb kayak like the Pelican Maxim may only allow a toy dog along with you.
Stability
Stability entails steadiness and how comfortable you are while paddling. Wider kayaks have better stability. Kayaks with poor tracking have compromised stability and are often fitted with a rudder or skeg (see the Intex Explorer K2). A stable kayak with good tracking will save our canine pet from anxiety and trauma if your kayak gets tossed or tips.
Other ideal features in a kayak include comfortable seats and footrests to aid paddling.
