Best Kayaks for Dogs in 2022

Whether you’re new or experienced, purchasing a new kayak can feel overwhelming; even more so when you’re searching for kayaks for dogs. With a variety of models and features, it can be difficult to navigate the waters of kayak-shopping alone. That’s why we’re here to help you discover the kayaks most suitable for your dog.

When you’re shopping, it’s important to keep in mind the desired use of your kayak: Do you want to take it into rougher areas or calmer waters? Do you want to take it fishing? Do you want to bring it on trips? You should also consider the size of your dog and the size and material of the kayak your dog would be comfortable on.

We’ve broken up what we believe to be the best kayaks for dogs into a few different categories based on these functions and capabilities. They range in price, from $136 to $899, but our goal is to make sure you get the most for your money. Though many seem expensive upfront, these kayaks for dogs may end up saving you money in the long run due to their long-lasting features.

Here are some of our favorite kayaks that accommodate dogs:

Best Overall of Kayaks for Dogs:

One reviewer called this the “Swiss Army Knife of kayaks” — the Ocean Kayak proves to be a reliable choice for solo or tandem use. It features an open, sit-on-top hull, making it easy for your pup to climb in and out of. It has three seating positions, two seat backs, and a usable weight capacity of 362 pounds, making it perfectly suitable for even larger dogs.

This is a hard-shell kayak, so you may want to keep that in mind if you’re looking for something more packable. Otherwise, it’s a great choice for calm waters or relatively quiet ocean waves. You should also note that while it comes with the seats, it does not come with the paddles, which must be purchased separately.

Best for Fishing:

This kayak offers extreme durability, especially considering it’s inflatable. This two-person kayak gives your pup a seat of his own — and an adjustable seat at that. You can paddle the whole time or add a trolling motor and store your paddles in the holders. It also features rod holders that allow you to adjust your fishing pole angle for a hands-free experience. There are plenty of pockets for storage and multiple chambers to ensure you reach shore from even the farthest-out fishing holes. 

This kayak is made with 18-gauge PVC, a tarpaulin bottom, and a tough nylon cover, so it has extreme durability. It has a weight limit of 470 pounds.

Best Inflatable Kayak:

If you’re looking for an inflatable kayak to use outside of fishing, this is the one for you. This kayak is suitable for three people (or canines!), giving your pup plenty of space to get comfortable, including larger dogs given its 650 pound weight capacity. This deal also includes two movable seats and two paddles. 

Inflatable kayaks for dogs are incredibly useful when traveling, as they become packable when deflated. This also proves helpful when you’re storing your kayak at home. This kayak is lightweight, but durable and can be set up in less than 10 minutes. The one thing to keep in mind with inflatable kayaks is to make sure your dog’s nails are clipped so no tears happen!

Other Great Options:

This hard-shell kayak is perfect for calm waters with your dog. The two-person, sit-on-top design will give your dog plenty of room. It’s lightweight, yet extremely durable. In addition, the kayak features a quick-lock box and a storage platform with bungee cords. It has a weight limit of 500 pounds.

If you’re interested in this kayak, you should be aware that you may get a bit wet, as there are six holes to drain the water. As long as your pup can handle a little extra water, he should be perfectly comfortable in the warmer seasons.

This affordable option is perfect if you’re looking for a compactable kayak to take your pup on lakes and quiet rivers. It has a weight limit of 400 pounds and while it isn’t as large as some of the other options we recommend, it works great for medium and small sized dogs. 

This purchase includes two oars and a pump for easy inflation and deflation. This is our ideal kayak if you’re on a budget and will mainly use it during the summer months on calm water. The design includes an inflatable l-beam floor for added rigidity and is made of heavy duty vinyl that’s considered puncture resistant.

This sit-on-top kayak is all about versatility and offers plenty of space to bring your dog out on the water. It has an adjustable framed seatback and storage space to hold your belongings with bungee cords to keep everything intact.

This design has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, but some of the other larger designs have capabilities to hold more weight. It’s advised to take this kayak on slow-moving rivers, flat-water lakes and ponds, or coastal areas with light waves. It does not come with paddles.

Finding the right kayak is only the first step. If you are planning on taking your dog out on the water, it’s important to introduce him to the water and the kayak slowly to get him acclimated. It’s a good idea to practice swimming with your pup first, then developing a routine for each time you want him to get in and out of the kayak. It may take time, but the company of your dog is always worth it!