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Kayaking is a great sport to go with your canine friend for an enjoyable experience. A dog can serve as a perfect friend for kayaking since they won’t complain about getting wet, don’t demand much equipment, and their sense of gravity is low.
However, before going on Kayaking with your canine friend, it’s important to take precautions and ensure the safety of you both. The most important step is getting a kayak that meets the needs of both of you.
Types of Kayaks
There are different types of Kayaks, so you have to keep an eye when choosing the one that will accommodate you, your furry friend, and your gear. Below are some types of kayaks that can accommodate your dog:
Recreational Kayaks
Recreational kayaks are a good type of kayak to go into the water with your dogs because they are very stable and enclosed. Experts, however, suggest that recreational kayaks are best for dogs that like sitting in an enclosed space. If your dog doesn’t like sitting in an enclosed space, you should think of choosing a tandem kayak or other kinds of kayaks.
Inflatable Kayaks
If you are a fair-weather kayaker, then an inflatable kayak is the best option for you as it offers outstanding solutions in terms of storage and transport.
An additional advantage of inflatable kayaks that made them most loved by dog owners is that they can be stored at home so that the dog will be familiar with them. It won’t cause anxiety triggered in dogs upon seeing strange objects.
However, the disadvantage of inflatable Kayaks is that they aren’t suitable for rough water conditions and navigating in the wind. Aside from that, they are highly durable and lightweight.
Sea Kayaks
Dog owners don’t mostly use sea kayaks because of their shape. They usually come with a pointed end, and they’re very narrow to allow space for two persons.
White water kayaks
Just like sea kayaks, white water kayaks are also not ideal for dogs owners. This is because their operation requires the user to be steering the whole kayak with their body. They also have a tight-fitting and don’t leave room for dogs. White water kayaks are also lightweight and too sensitive to changes making them not ideal for dogs.
The above mentioned are a few types of kayaks that can be used for kayaking with dogs and those that can’t be used. Below we shall take a look at the review of some best kayak dogs that are available on Amazon.
The 4 Best Kayaks for dogs Are Reviewed Below
If you’ve made up your mind to go kayaking with your canine friend and you’ve been thinking about the best kayak for your adventure, then worry no more as we’re going to discuss the four best Kayaks for dogs that are available on Amazon.
These Kayaks are very durable, and they come at a friendly price; each of them is discussed. Grab a chilled juice as you go through the list
1
Driftsun Rover 120/220 Inflatable Tandem White-Water Kayak
The first on our list is the Driftsun Rover Inflatable White water Tandem Kayak, an adventure-ready kayak for you and your dog. The versatile two-person kayak is ideal for both flat and rough water. Its package comes with the highest quality materials and top-notch accessories crafted professionally.
Born on the Lakes and Rivers of California, the Driftsun Inflatable Kayaks were intelligently designed, built, and tested by a brilliant team who live to paddle.
The Kayak is created with a traditional river runner outline giving it the ability to handle up to class III & IV rapids with control and speed. It features a high-pressure stitch floor and provides more rigidity, responsiveness, and stability than traditional inflatable kayaks.
A strengthened PVC structure prs a double layer of protection, allowing it to bounce off rocks, logs, and other underwater obstructions safely without experiencing puncture or damages.
The inflatable kayak also has a removable rear tracking skeg making it easy to detach for white water or be left on for superior tracking performance in flat water.
The Driftsun Kayak can be inflated to a full-sized kayak in as few as 10 minutes & it weighs only 28lbs which makes it relatively lightweight and compact. Its reinforced side tubes are 1000D; a durable bottom also helps add durability and prevent puncture and damages.
With its rigid high-pressure drop stitch floor, its ample rocker profile, and removable flatwater tracking finthatl help give sturdy durability and control over rough areas in the water.
The Driftsun 120/220 Inflatable White water Tandem Kayak package comes with:
Two adjustable padded seats having a back support
Two flexible and highly durable Kayak paddles
A deluxe hand pump
A gear bag
A durable rear tracking fin
Key Features:
- Lightweight, durable, and Compact: The Driftsun Kayak can be fully inflated in less than 10 minutes, and it weighs only 28lbs, which is relatively light and manageable. It has 1000D strengthened layered PVC side tubes, a heavy-duty PVC bottom that makes it more durable and helps in protecting it from damages and punctures.
- Maneuverable & stable: Having a rigid high-pressure drop stitch floor, a flatwater tracking fin that’s removable, and an ample rocker profile that gives unpaired stability and complete control in dull and rough water
- Ready for adventure: The white water rating inflatable kayak is adventure-ready. It is also convenient for up to class III and IV rapids, many tie-down points for you to mount your gear and front camera and, eight self-bailing ports.
- A durable rocker profile: The Kayak is created from a traditional river runner outline; it can handle up to class III and IV rapids with control and speed
- Rigid & Stable: Having a high-pressure drop stitch floor, the inflatable kayak is more light, stable, stiff, and more responsive compared to traditional low-pressure kayaks
- A strengthened PVC build: Having an enhanced layered PVC material that provides more protection, the kayak can bounce off logs, rocks, and other obstructions on the water safely without puncture or damages.
- Package: Two adjustable, durable seats with high back support, two adjustable aluminum kayak paddles, a rear tracking fin, a double deluxe hand pump, and a travel bag
Specification:
- Brand name: Driftsun
- Manufacturer’s name: Driftsun
- Color: Rover 220
- Weight of package: 23.52 kilograms
- Dimension of item package: 34 x 23.7 x 13.3 inches [L x H x W]
- Size: 300lbs
- Load capacity: 2 persons
- Weight of hull: 28lbs
- Dimensions when inflated: 12.5’ft. x 38”
- Dimension when deflated: 24.5”x 21” x 10”
- Inflation time: 9 minutes
- Suggested users: Unisex Adults & Children
- Age recommendation: Adults and Children
Pros
- It comes with a double deluxe hand pump for easy pumping
- It is very lightweight and compact
- Its Padded seat has high back support to make you and your dog more comfortable
- It is very rigid and stable
Cons
- It is pricey
2
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is a recreational kayak, having a streamlined design for easy kayaking. Being brightly colored with sporty graphics, the kayak is visible in the water. If you’re looking for a kayak to have a good time in the water with your dog, then the Intex Explorer K2 kayak is the perfect option for you. The lightweight and compact kayak are very simple to assemble & it allows you to have fun and enjoy kayaking every time everywhere.
It is made from a rugged vinyl build which makes it very sturdy. The Kayak also comes with an inflatable I beam floor for added rigidity and comfort. There’s also a removable skeg that provides directional stability and two adjustable inflatable seats having back support for added comfort. The kayak also features a quick inflating and deflating breeze with a Boston valve on each of its sides. For more convenience and comfort, a grab handle and grab line are provided on each side, together with a repair kit and a U.S coast guard I.D.
Other accessories with the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak include two 86″ aluminum oars and an Intex high output pump to make inflation and deflation easy.
Having a cockpit designed for added comfort and space and an adjustable set with back support, the Intex Explorer K2 kayak is comfortable for everyone. For directional stability, it comes with a removable skeg. Its bright yellow color helps in increasing visibility in terms of emergencies.
Having an inflated size of 10 feet 3 x 3 feet x 1 feet 8 inches and weighing about 400 pounds, the Kayak is ideal for smaller water bodies like lakes and mild rivers.
For an incredible kayaking experience with your dog, think of choosing the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak.
Key Features:
- Comfortable: Thr Intex explorer K2 Kayak comes with an adjustable inflated seat having back support. It also has a cockpit design to increase support and comfort. These and other amazing kayak features make it comfortable for you and your dog.
- Very stable: The Intex Kayak comes with a removable SKEG which helps in adding directional stability.
- Durable: Made from a rugged vinyl build, the Kayak is very durable. It also has an inflatable I beam floor, which adds comfort and rigidity.
- Lightweight: It weighs only 400 pounds making it very lightweight and compact. The Intex Explorer K2 kayak is also very easy to assemble
- Increased visibility: The Kayak is brightly yellow colored, having sporty graphics that makes it very visible in the water in case of emergency
- Ideal for smaller water bodies: Having a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds, the kayak is ideal for small water bodies like rivers and lakes.
Specification:
- Brand name: Intex
- Manufacturer’s name: Intex
- Weight of item: 35 pounds
- Weight of package: 16.08 kilograms
- Dimension of item: 13.5 x 23.13 x 16.25 inches [L x W x H]
- Dimension of item package: 24 x 17 x 14.25 inches [L x W x H]
- Color: Bright yellow
- Material: Polypropylene
- Size: 1
- Included components: SKEG, aluminum oars, and an Intex high out the pump
- Warranty: No
Pros
- Its seats come with back support, and it has a cockpit design that adds space and comfort
- It comes with a removable skeg that makes it more stable
- Being brightly colored, it can be easily seen in water in times of emergency
- It is made from a rugged vinyl build; therefore, it is very durable.
Cons
- It can be used in small water bodies only
3
Driftsun Teton 120 Recreational Tandem Kayak
The Driftsun Teton 120 Recreational Tandem Kayak is the ideal kayak for those wanting to experience paddling, fishing, and exploring water with their canine friend. Built for comfort, fishing, touring, and cruising, the package combines the highest quality materials, artistry, and top-notch accessories. You shouldn’t expect less from a team that lives to paddle.
The two-person Kayak can be used for paddling or tandem; it has three seats, where it can hold two adults and your dog. It performs outstandingly well in rivers, oceans, Flatwater, and windy conditions. It also has a wide balance hull that has unmatched stability and offers to track for a smooth ride.
The Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak has four mount holders mounting points, a paddle park and rests, and a rear bungee tankwell storage. It also has a built-in cup holder and self-bailing scupper plugs. For river explorations, multi-day camping trips, and ocean fishing excursions, the Teton 120T is the perfect kayak for you and your dog.
The Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak package comes with:
A molded center cockpit seat
2 Adjustable EVA padded seats
2 Adjustable Kayak Paddle
A Rear Tankwell storage with Bungee
2 paddle rests
2 cup holders
2 dry storage hatches
4 flush-mount capped rod holders
A pair of mounting points
8 scupper plugs for self-bailing ports
A pair of Bungee paddle parks
For an interesting and incredible experience in the water with your partner and your furry friend, think of buying the Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak.
Key Features:
- Perfect for recreational activities: The 12-foot two-person kayak is ideal for fishing, paddling, or family recreation. It weighs 500 pounds and can accommodate two paddlers and a center seat for a child or a furry friend
- Rugged and tough design: The hull is designed from a single piece of rotomolded ultraviolet resistant high-density polyethylene to provide more strength and durability
- Ready for adventure: Having 2 mounting points for Scotty accessories, dual watertight storage hatches, a rear tank well storage having a Bungee, and an inbuilt cup holder, the Driftson is 100% ready for your adventure.
- 100% Outfitted: The Kayak has a molded center cockpit seat for comfort and space, fixed carry handles for easy transport, two paddle park holders that help secure the paddles when not in use.
- Package: The Driftsun Teton Kayak includes: 2 anodized durable aluminum kayak paddles having strong grips, 2 adjustable Eva padded seats with high back support for added comfort, 8 scupper bailings.
Specification:
- Brand name: Driftsun
- Manufacturer’s name: Driftsun
- Weight of item: 32.66 kilograms
- Dimension of item package: 146.5 x 36.25 x 14.75 inches [L x W x H]
- Color: White and blue
- Suggested users: Unisex
- Age recommendation: Adults
- Load capacity: 2 Adults and a child or furry friend
- Included components: Durable aluminum paddles with ergonomic grip, 8 scupper bailings for self-bailing port
Pros
- It is designed from a single rotomolded UV resistant polyethylene for added durability
- It can accommodate 2 adults and a child or furry friend
- It has two anodized durable aluminum performance paddles with ergonomic grip
Cons
- A customer complained that it leaks easily.
4
Intex K2 Challenger Kayak
The Intex K2 challenger kayak gives you and your dog a sleek and easy paddling experience to explore the lakes and the rivers. The kayak is made from the company’s rugged, tough vinyl that’s resistant to tear, puncture, and UV to ensure long-term durability. Its cockpit design is made to add space and provide more comfort.
Being brightly green in color and Having high vision graphics, the kayak allows you to see the water easily. It comes with 84″ aluminum oars and a high output hand pump for easy inflation and deflation. For added durability, there are hard plastic skegs on the underside of the kayak, just like those on the side of a surfboard; these skegs also provide directional control, thereby ensuring you that you’re going to where you want to go.
To make sure you’re comfortable and enjoy every bit of your kayaking, the inflatable seats of the kayak feature a strong backrest for added support. There are also two quick-fill Boston valves on the main hull chamber. It also has an inflatable I-beam floor that adds comfort and rigidity.
The Intex K2 Challenger Kayak package comes with:
A cargo net for keeping essentials
A grab line on each side of the kayak to aid in carrying
86 inch aluminum oars
A high capacity pump
A repair kit
If you have a friend that’s obsessed with his furry friend and likes kayaking, think of surprising him with the Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, he’ll surely appreciate it!;
Key Features:
- Sporty: The Intex K2 Challenger Kayak is amazing and a fun kayak having a streamlined design for easy kayaking and paddling through the water
- Light color: It is colored bright green to add more sporty flair and make it easily visible in the water in times of emergency
- Durable Paddles and out pump: The Intex K2 challenger Kayak comes with two 86 inch aluminum paddles and an Intex high out the pump to make inflation and deflation easy
- Made from high-quality materials: It is made from the brands, rugged, tough vinyl resistant to UV and puncture. Therefore it lasts long.
- Measurement: It measures 30 by 15 by 138 inches [L x W x H] when inflated; it has a 400 maximum weight limit, a repair kit, and aluminum oars.
Specification:
- Brand name: Intex
- Manufacturer’s name: Intex
- Weight of item: 35 pounds
- Dimension of item: 138 x 30 x 15 inches [L x W x H]
- Weight of package: 17.42 Kilograms
- Dimension of item package: 24 x 17 x 13 inches [L x W x H]
- Country of origin: Republic of China
- Color: Blue and Grey
- Type of material: Inflatable
- Material: Super tough vinyl
- Suggested users: Male
- Age recommendation: Adults
- Number of items: One
- Style: Kayak 2
- Model year: 2013
- Size: One size
- Included components: Skegs
- Sport type: Kayaking
Pros
- It is colored brightly so it can be easily sighted in times of emergency
- It comes with two 86 inch very durable aluminum paddles
- It comes with an out pump that makes inflating and deflating easy
- It is made from tough and durable vinyl that is resistant to puncture and UV, so it lasts for a long time
- It comes with Skegs
Cons
- Some customers complained that it leaks
- It’s suggested users are men only
5
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is made from a super tough material with a polyester core for high quality and durability, ensuring abrasion resistance and high impact while retaining lightweight and compactness. Its high-pressure inflation provides more stability and rigidity, with high-pressure spring-loaded valves for easy and fast deflation and inflation.
Its 3 ply super tough built utilizes a high molecular PVC unaffected by salt, water, oil, and gasoline. It is also resistant to damages from abrasion, sunlight, impact, and other forms of damages. The structure also allows more air pressure for added rigidity.
The kayak comes with two removable Skegs designed for optimal maneuver through shallow and deep water; it also has two floor-mounted fortresses for added comfort, an integrated recessed fishing rod holder, and an adjustable bucket seater. An adjustable boarding bracket can also be mounted for additional accessories like GPS systems, fish finders, and fishing rod holders. There’s also storage space in the bow and stern with a stainless steel D ring for tying down dry bags and accessories.
Key Features:
- Made from a strong PVC with polyester core: The kayak is made from a super strong and durable PVC having a polyester core making it resistant to damages from abrasion, sunlight, and impact, while being lightweight and compact.
- High-pressure inflation: The high-pressure inflation of the Kayak helps in providing extra stability and rigidity. The high-pressure spring-loaded valves give room for easy inflation and fast deflation
- Two removable Skegs: It comes with two removable Skegs for both deep water, and shallow water, together with 2 floors mounted footrests, 2 adjustable bucket seats, and two integrated recessed fishing rod holders
- Additional accessories: It comes with an adjustable and removable mounting bracket for additional accessories such as fish finders, swivel fishing rods, and a repair patch and carries a bag
- Additional storage space: The Kayaks features storage space in bow and stem with a stainless steel D ring for tying down a dry bag and other accessories. The total weight of the kayak is about 400 pounds
- 3 ply super tough material utilizes a high molecular PVC unaffected by salt water, oil, or gasoline. It is resistant to damages from impact, abrasion, and sunlight. It also permits more air pressure for added rigidity
- It also comes with 86 inch aluminum oars and a high-out pump.
Specification:
- Brand name: Intex
- Manufacturer’s name: Intex
- Weight of item: 43.64 pounds
- Dimension of item: 151 x 37 x 18 inches [L x W x H]
- Weight of package: 21.27 kilograms
- Dimension of item package: 25.3 x 23.6 x 13.2 inches [L x W x H]
- Model name: Excursion Pro K2
- Part Number: 68309EP
- Color: Red
- Material: Plastic
- Suggested users: Unisex
- Age recommendation: Adults
- Number of items: One
- Size: K2: 2 person
- Included components: Kayak seats, Long skeg, and short Skeg
Pros
- It is made from a tough and durable PVC having a polyester core; therefore, it is resistant to damages
- The high-pressure inflation of the kayak provides extra rigidity and stability
- It comes with removable and adjustable skegs making it ideal for both shallow and deep water
Cons
- Some buyers complained that it’s not made from high-quality materials
Buying Guide Questions
Below we are going to take a look at some of the frequently asked questions by buyers about kayaks for dogs and kayaking in general.
Can a dog ride in a kayak?
Yes, a dog can ride in a kayak together with its master. It would help if you got a kayak convenient for you and your furry friend. The above-reviewed Kayaks are a perfect option if you’re willing to ride with your dog.
Are inflatable kayaks good for dogs?
The answer is a capital yes. Inflatable kayaks are among the best kayaks you can ride with your canine friend. They are built with super-tough materials that withstand dogs’ sharp claws and biting.
How do you introduce a dog to a kayak?
There are many ways to introduce your dog to a kayak. You can start keeping treats inside for your dog to find them; if the kayak is inflatable, you can inflate it at home and keep it till your dog gets used to it and start entering.
You can also pet your dog when they come close to you. If you’re inside the kayak, then have them sit inside.
Which is safer, kayak or canoe?
Generally, Canoe is more stable than kayak due to their large width, they can occupy more gear, and they are easier to enter and leave. However, canoes are more difficult to capsize compared to kayaks.
Can one person use a tandem kayak?
Yes, one person can use a tandem kayak if it’s asit-on-top with adjustable and removable seats. You can easily paddle a sit inside or molded seat tandem; choose the most convenient seat, and go!
Are inflatable Kayaks reliable?
Yes, inflatable kayaks are reliable, safe, and durable. They are better than most traditional kayaks, especially now that technology plays a great part in their makeup.
Can inflatable Kayaks pop?
This depends on the quality of the kayak. High-quality ones don’t easily pop not do they puncture or tear easily. The high-quality materials and professional craftsmanship used in inflatable boats produce quality kayaks that are highly resistant to pop, tear, and puncture.
Do Kayaks Tip easily?
Kayaks are generally reliable and safe as such; they hardly tip unless you’re paddling hard.
Conclusion
Kayaking with your furry friends is one of the most enjoyable experiences you’ll get. However, you won’t just wake up and start taking your dog on a Kayaking. You need to make sure you choose a kayak that is ideal for both of you and introduces your dog to it beforehand.
The above-reviewed kayaks are ideal for kayaking with your dog. This is because they are inflatable, making them very reliable and durable. They are also highly resistant to damages, and they don’t tip easily. Their bright color adds to their sporty look and makes them visible to be seen in case of emergencies easily. Most of the reviewed Kayaks also come with a back seat that provides support and makes you more comfortable as you paddle. These kayaks can also be given as gifts to your loved ones.
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