Kayaking is one of the few sports that allows you to explore new places with your loved ones, including pets, that are often inaccessible by land. Taking your canine friend on your kayaking adventures is a great way to spend some quality time on the serene waters of the lake, and needless to say a departure from the monotonous walks in the park.
In order to ensure both you and your canine have a pleasant and safe kayaking experience, it is important to buy a kayak that can accommodate the payload and be comfortable to ride in throughout the trip. Buying the best kayak for dogs can be a tricky task owing to the plethora of options available, but we’ve rounded up three great options that will help you and your water-loving pooch cherish your time together on the wide open waters.
Aquaglide Chinook Kayak
For a kayak that wont leave you or your furry friend disappointed, and one that is generously spaced to accommodate both comfortably, look no further than the Aquaglide Chinook Kayak.
It measures a massive 12 feet and 10 inches in length, and can handle a whopping 550 lbs of weight, making it good for both light and heavier individuals. The inflatable Aquaglide Chinook kayak is equipped with three inner bladders – one in the floor and one on either side, which can be removed in case of damage.
The hull of the Aquaglide Chinook kayak is crafted from high quality PVC/Polyester and along with the integrated I-beam stiffeners delivers a solid performance when paddling in the water. Adding to this, the kayak is fitted with splash guards at the front and rear of its cockpit to help keep you dry in rough waters.
With regards to comfort, the Aquaglide Chinook kayak features two well padded, high backrest seats complete with large mesh storage pockets, so there’s no backaches to deal with even when paddling for longer periods. Other key features of the Aquaglide Chinook kayak include removable drink cozies, integrated fishing rod holders and adjustable seat straps.
The Aquaglide Chinook kayak is easy to set up thanks to the high performance fin system that consists of a stiff, foiled fin system with quick release. Included in the package is the kayak and storage bag, but you will have to buy the pump separately. All in all, if you’re looking for a kayak that won’t let you down in both flat and rough waters, the Aquaglide Chinook kayak is an unrivalled choice.
Pros:
- 550 lbs weight capacity
- Stable, efficient hull
- Two splash guards
- High backrests and mesh storage pockets
- Integrated fishing-rod holders, removable drink cozies and adjustable seat straps
- Comes with storage bag
Cons:
- Does not come with a pump
Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak
If you’re looking for a kayak that comes with literally all the bells and whistles, you really can’t go wrong with the Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak. Available in an assortment of sizes, the Sea Eagle Kayak weighs just 26 lbs and can accommodate up to 2 people including your canine friends for a total 650 lbs weight capacity.
This championship-grade kayak boasts a robust build with sun and salt resistant hull material, and is NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) certified, meaning it complies with industry safety and construction standards and federal regulations.
Furthermore, the Sea Eagle SE370 kayak is suitable for paddling in up to Class III whitewater, making it a great choice for kayaking in rapids with moderate and irregular waves. It features five, deluxe one-way inflation and deflation valves, lashed down inflatable spray skirts, and two skegs located at the bottom for improved speed and tracking, and a bow and stern grab line.
The Sea Eagle SE370 kayak is ready to help you explore the serene river waters right out of the box, and comes with two AB30 paddles, a foot pump, two inflatable movable & removable DKS seats and a carry bag with a comfortable shoulder strap to store it after you’ve reached your destination.
Pros:
- 2 person or 650 lbs weight capacity
- Inflatable movable & removable DKS seats
- Sun & saltwater resistant hull material,
- Comes with accessories such as paddles and carry bag
- Great for up to Class III whitewater and NMMA certified
Cons:
- A little on the expensive side
Perception Kayak Tribe
The Perception Kayak is truly in a league of its own for several good reasons, starting with its 2 person, 500 lbs weight capacity. It can be ordered in a choice of three different sizes and three colors – Heyday, Seaspray and Sunset, and measures 33.75 inches in width and 13ft. 5 inches in length.
The length and width of the generously spaced cockpit are 52 inches at the front and 46.5 inches at the back and 22 inches at the front and 20 inches at the back respectively. The comfortable seating system comprises of two adjustable seats, and even an integrated center seat for a child or pet or anyone who is not fond of getting wet.
Adding to this, the Perception Kayak is appointed with molded footwells, which make it easy to find the perfect position, and is a great departure from traditional and uncomfortable foot pedals. In terms of storage, the Perception Kayak doesn’t disappoint with two hatches in front of the seats to store small items, and a tank well with a bungee to store extra gear and equipment.
But that’s not all, the keel of the Perception Kayak is equipped with a skid plate, which protects from being damaged during transportation or low water crossings. Other noteworthy features of the Perception Kayak include a deck plate and catbag for storage, integrated side handles, marked hatch center-point and comfortable to hold soft-touch handles.
Pros:
- 2 person, 500 lbs weight capacity
- Extra middle seat for child or pet
- Skid plate to prevent damage
- Deck plate with catbag
- Dedicated storage space for extra gear
- Adjustable and comfortable seating system
Cons:
- Storage compartment hatch may stick
Conclusion
Looking to take your doggo friend on your kayaking adventures? If so, the three options on this list won’t let you down. For a two person kayak, the Aquaglide Chinook offers a comfortable and safe ride, but if you’re going to paddling in Class III whitewater, the two person Sea Eagle SE370 is probably a better option.
While all three kayaks mention in this list work well for taking your dog along, the 2-person Perception Kayak Tribe steps it up a few notches with a dedicated and integrated molded in center seat.