7 Best Inflatable Kayaks for Dogs 2022

If you love spending time outside with your pet companion, consider purchasing an inflatable kayak. 

Dog-friendly kayaks are growing in popularity as they provide a fantastic way to enjoy the water with your pet.

Before buying a Kayak for your dog, though, there are several factors to consider, including weight capacity, durability, and size. 

You’ll also want to ensure that your dog has sufficient space to move freely on your preferred kayak:

• So, what is the best inflatable kayak for dogs?
• What should you consider when purchasing a kayak?
• How can you get your dog used to kayaking?

To help you understand this and pick the ideal kayak for your next outing, we’ve put together a list of the seven best inflatable kayaks for dogs in 2022.

This list includes a range of kayaks to accommodate various demands and budgets.

So, you’re likely to identify one ideal for you and your pet.

IN A HURRY? HERE’S OUR TOP PICKS…

Here’s a comprehensive review of the seven best inflatable kayaks for dogs in 2022:

Best Overall: Lifetime Tandem

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 124″ by 36.2″

Weight: 60lbs

Weight capacity: 500lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: open sea, small lakes, big lakes, slow rivers 

Lifetime Tandem is a tandem kayak ideal for paddling in all conditions. This sturdy polyethylene material offers UV protection and lasting durability.

This kayak has a huge weight capacity that can hold even the largest dog. 

It is spacious and can accommodate three or two individuals and their canine friends, ensuring nobody is left behind during fishing outings.

It’s made of a flat-bottom hull, which offers much-required stability. 

This kayak also contains several straps and clips for storage and a watertight hatch to protect your supplies and backpack.

The only problem is that the Lifetime Tandem can be tough to maneuver for novices.

Otherwise, if you’re familiar with kayaks, it’s the perfect pick for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Huge weight capacity
• Incredible stability
• Ample storage space
• Highly durable design

Cons

• Not the best pick for beginners

Runner-Up: Intex Explorer K2

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 123″ by 36″

Weight: 35lbs

Weight capacity: 350 lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: small lakes and slow rivers

The Intex Explorer K2 is an ideal tandem kayak for novice kayak purchasers. 

It features completely adjustable seats with inflated backrests for added comfort for you and your dog.

Whether you’ve got a tiny or large dog, it can comfortably fit in this kayak, thanks to its 350lbs capacity.

It’s also quite affordable compared to other multi-rider kayaks.

However, this kayak is designed for something other than larger water bodies. 

Also, it takes time to inflate it, which is why we didn’t rank it first, but it still comes up as the most cost-effective kayak for dogs.

Pros

• Affordable
• Fully adjustable inflatable seats
• Decent capacity
• Lightweight and portable

Cons

• Not appropriate for huge water bodies
• Not quite durable

Best for Value: Pelican Sentinel 100X EXO

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 120″ by 30″

Weight: 40lbs

Weight capacity: 300lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: small lakes, slow rivers 

The Pelican Sentinel 100X EXO is a cheap, lightweight kayak with a padded, flat deck.

It has an adjustable, raised back seat and a detachable, watertight case in the stern.

This simple, open-decked kayak is ideal for beginners and can accommodate small and medium dogs.

If you want to try recreational kayaking with a spacious sit-on-top boat, give this kayak a try.

Pros

• Affordable
• Open deck layout

Cons

• Low-standard seat position

Best for Large Dogs: Crescent Crew

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 156″ by 35″

Weight: 79 lbs

Weight capacity: 600lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: slow rivers, big lakes, surf

The Crescent Crew seamlessly combines comfort, paddling performance, and craftsmanship to produce a one-of-a-kind kayak. 

The kayak is lightweight enough for solo paddling but could also accommodate a pet and kids.

If you have a big dog, it’s guaranteed to fit into this kayak.

The 600lbs weight capacity and its revolutionary hull design guarantee you’ll ride high and enjoy paddling in all situations.

Pros

• Quite stable
• Huge capacity
• Adjustable foot tracks

Cons

• Heavy
• Difficult to load or offload

Best for Durability: Sea Eagle 385 ft

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 150″ by 36″

Weight: 44 lbs

Weight capacity: 635lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: open sea, big lakes, slow rivers  

If you’d like the sturdiest inflatable kayak available, Sea Eagle 385 ft is worth considering.

The crocodile skin material used in the flooring and the tubes are scratch-proof and non-slip.

This kayak is a fishing vessel with a large capacity and outstanding stability. It’s an excellent option for large, curious dogs.

Pros

• Excellent tracking for an inflatable kayak
• Portable and simple to inflate
• Very sturdy
• Enough standing room for fishing

Cons

• The normal seating position is extremely low
• Raised sides make it hard to lift big dogs outside the water

Best on a Budget: FeelFree Juntos

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 134.4″ by 30.5″

Weight: 60.6lbs

Weight capacity: 397lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: small lakes and slow rivers

This sit-on-top kayak is spacious and comfy. The kayak was designed to accommodate both pets and children.

The front jump seat is ideal for your dog to sit on as it allows you room to paddle effortlessly still.

The Juntos also has ample storage space under the seat for you and your dog’s supplies.

Pros

• Additional jump seat for a pet or kid
• Stable
• Enough storage
• Molded handles

Cons

• Quite slow

Best Hunting or Fishing Choice: NuCanoe Unlimited

Quick Facts

Dimensions: 150 by 40″

Weight: 84lbs

Weight capacity: 650lbs

Cockpit type: Sit on top 

Best for: open sea, small lakes, big lakes, slow rivers 

The NuCanoe Unlimited is a hybrid fishing and hunting kayak with a massive carrying capacity.

This 650-pound capacity means that even the largest dogs will fit comfortably.

A big open deck layout and ample storage space allow your dog to be comfy as you roam about while hunting. 

As its name suggests, there are no restrictions on where you can paddle this kayak and remain comfortable.

Pros

• Huge capacity
• Tandem or solo
• Excellent stability

Cons

• Restricted stern room
• Non-adjustable seats
• Heavy

How To Choose a Kayak for Dogs: A Buyer’s Guide

Most dogs find water a soothing and enjoyable place to spend their time.

This makes dogs and kayaks a perfect match, as they also get to be around their owners.

Selecting the ideal kayak can be somewhat challenging with the numerous alternatives available.

Here, we’ll highlight some key features to consider when purchasing a kayak for your dog.

Can You Take Your Dog on a Kayak?

Taking your dog kayaking could be a fun and exciting experience for you and your canine friend.

Preparing your pet for paddling will need some effort, but it will be worthwhile.

From teaching your dog to get used to being near water, a tiny bit of knowledge could be the beginning of a lifetime of adventure with your pet companion.

Paddleboard-Kayak Hybrids

Multiple designs of hybrid boats blend the greatest aspects of stand-up paddle boarding with kayaking.

These are usually low-profile, sturdy sit-on-top kayaks with a wide cockpit.

Your furry friend has plenty of room thanks to the flat shape mimicking a stand-up paddleboard.

Nonetheless, it’s important to note that they’re much more stable if you sit down in kayak mode.

When starting, first maintain the kayak mode to study your dog’s movements.

Their flat decks, paddleboards, and hybrids allow far greater mobility than standard kayaks.

Tandem Kayaks

Tandem kayaks offer ample space and are ideal for traveling with a human and canine companion. 

In fact, they can hold up to two persons and two dogs.

If you have a big dog, a tandem inflatable kayak is your best option.

Inflatable Kayaks

Inflatable kayaks are great for folks that love kayaking in fair weather.

These kayaks offer great storage and transit alternatives for fair-weather paddlers.

Numerous dog owners adore these kayaks since they can be stored at home. 

This is ideal for dog owners, as their pets will become accustomed to the kayak and be less frightened while kayaking.

The kayaks have several downsides, though.

For instance, they’re poor at wind navigation and kayaking in stormy water but are nevertheless a convenient and sturdy option.

Dimensions, Weight Capacity, and Stability

Here are three key features to look out for in the best inflatable kayaks for dogs:

Dimensions

You should acquire kayaks with sufficient side height to hold your dog.

High sides protect your dog and limit the likelihood that it might fall off.

Although sit-on-top kayaks are a nice pick, you and your furry friend are more inclined to get wet.

Your best option is a sit-in kayak with a large, open cockpit.

Weight Capacity

Select a kayak that can accommodate your combined weight.

For example, you must not get a two-person kayak if you intend to bring your dog along with your partner.

The kayak will likely capsize, particularly if your dog becomes overly excited.

Stability

Select a kayak with a reduced risk of capsizing.

Some dogs could become incredibly overexcited, causing your unstable kayak to capsize.

You must select a kayak with a broad base.

Broad-based kayaks keep your dog from swaying, which helps maintain equilibrium.

Types of Kayaks for Dogs

Kayaks for dogs should have ample room for the dog to sit or lie. 

While there are numerous brands available, all these dog-friendly kayaks fall under the following classifications:

• Sit-in and Sit-on-top kayaks
• Inflatable kayaks
• Tandem kayaks
• Recreational kayaks

Kayaks To Avoid When Kayaking With Dogs

The following kayaks should be disregarded if you’d like to kayak with your furry friend:

Whitewater Kayaks

These kayaks are designed to endure rapids.

Unlike sit-on-top kayaks, they are significantly smaller, leaving limited room for your pet.

Kayaking with your dog using Whitewater kayaks isn’t recommended.

In fact, due to their smack form, even medium-sized dogs cannot fit comfortably, which makes them best for single users.

Sea Kayaks

Sea kayaks are narrow and have pointed ends. These kayas are the ideal vessel for competitive paddling.

Sit-in or inflatable kayaks are the better options if this isn’t your primary objective and you want to paddle with your dog.

How Do I Choose a Dog-Friendly Kayak?

One key consideration when selecting a dog-friendly kayak is the room to hold you and your canine friend.

Opt for a large, flat area where your dog can stand, sit, and lie down.

Other important considerations to watch out for include the kayak’s stability, weight capacity, and safety.

What Kind of Kayak Is Best for Paddling With Dogs?

The best kayak for paddling with dogs is dependent on various factors.

Are you looking for a budget-friendly option with stability, bigger capacity, durability, or storage?

Once you’ve narrowed your search to your specific wants and needs, you can find the kayak to deliver the best experience. 

Use this guide as a good starting point to find the best inflatable kayaks for dogs currently available.

Safety Considerations When Kayaking With Dogs

When kayaking with your dog, ensure you take all safety precautions, as there’s always a risk of capsizing.

To begin with, wear the appropriate gear, such as a life jacket.

Also, you’ll want to ensure that you are familiar with the waters.

If you or your dog are afraid of water, address this obstacle before heading to the lake or river waters.

Preferably, train your dog to swim and let him familiarize himself with the kayak you’ll use for your adventure.

As for kayak selection, choose one that can comfortably accommodate you and your dog.

If you’d like to paddle in rough ocean waters, use something other than a kayak suited for gentle waters.

Also, ensure that the kayak is in good condition before setting out.

Never paddle under the influence, and avoid exceeding 70% of the max weight capacity of your inflatable kayak. 

This reduces the risk of accidents that would have otherwise been avoidable occurring.

Kayak Fishing With Dogs

Typically, kayaks for fishing with dogs are more stable and wider than other kayak types.

They’re intended to enable you to move freely and stand while fishing.

Also, they often have a huge load capacity and a spacious deck.

There is frequently ample storage space for your pet to feel comfortable or wonder about.

For a smoother experience, your dog must understand basic training well. This ensures that the dog easily responds to your commands. 

Can You Put a Dog in an Inflatable Kayak?

At first glance, this may appear to be an extremely obvious choice.

Plastic kayaks have the inherent advantage that they cannot be punctured.

However, don’t disregard inflatable kayaks. These aren’t your typical chaise loungers.

Most inflatable kayaks are composed of robust, durable PVC intended for beaches and rocky landings.

So long as your dog’s nails are trimmed, there is no risk of puncture.

Inflatable kayaks are generally larger, open, and more stable than plastic kayaks.

If you have a bigger or more curious dog who loves exploring water, this feature is particularly useful.

Sit-on-Top vs. Sit-In Kayaks for Dogs

Most paddlers favor sit-on-tops when paddling with their furry friends.

Typically, an open deck design provides a greater area for your dog to move about comfortably. 

Sit-on-top kayaks are typically more stable and wider as well.

Additional benefits of the sit-on-top kayaks are that they’re simpler to get your dog onboard if they plunge into the waters.

The drain bungs also ensure that any excess water drains easily.

Sit-in kayaks could be space-restrictive.

Your pet must share a cockpit room with you, but for tandem kayaks, they could have a separate cockpit where they can remain perfectly still.

These kayaks are perfect for little or scared dogs, as they can snuggle and remain cozy and warm.

However, ensure that your sit-in kayak allows you to evacuate the boat in an emergency.

Kayaking With a Dog: Tandem vs. Solo Kayaks

Unlike tandem, solo kayaks are made to accommodate you and your gear.

Many solo kayaks feature an open deck or storage room layout, and some can accommodate a pet companion. 

Always confirm the weight restriction and stay within 70% of your kayak’s weight capacity.

However, consider tandem kayaks for huge dogs due to their ample capacity.

Most tandem kayaks that are sit-on-tops can be paddled as solos.

This shouldn’t be an issue for a large canine if he stays in front of you and provides balance.

Top Tips for Getting Your Dog Used To Kayaking

Aside from learning which kayaks are ideal for rowing with your furry friend, here’s some additional information to keep you and your pet safe while kayaking.

Prepare Yourself

Once you are ready to embark on your first kayaking excursion with your dog, check that you have all the necessary equipment.

Ensure you and your dog have enough water to stay cool if the weather is hot.

Dogs with fair skin or short fur may require sun protection with sunscreen.

A set of dog goggles might make the journey comfier for your dog by protecting its eyes from water and the sun.

Carry your dog’s collar and leash, but never clip them to the kayak – this could be devastating if the kayak capsizes and your pet gets stuck beneath it.

Start on Dry Land

Nobody learns how to kayak overnight, and neither can a dog.

Ensure that you take ample time for your dog to familiarize itself with the inflatable kayak on dry land before moving to the waters.

The dog should become familiar with the kayak.

Allow your dog to play around the inflatable kayak and give the dog a treat if they climb up alone.

Decide where you’d like your furry friend to ride, and then teach them how to relax in the kayak.

If your dog already understands basic obedience, this entire process should be much easier.

Get Your Dog a Life Jacket

As you should don a life jacket regardless of your swimming ability, so should your dog.

Irrespective of your cautiousness, the weather might change abruptly, or a careless powerboat could create a hazardous wake in your path.

Even with the most steady kayak for dogs, there’s still the possibility of capsizing.

Optimize your dog’s safety by providing them with a life jacket.

Be Realistic About Your Dog’s Abilities

Not every dog is fit to be an adventure companion.

If your dog has shown little interest in or active fear of water, it might be less interested in kayaking.

However, a dog that has never been near water could be an excellent kayaker.

If your dog is well-trained, flexible, and socialized, it might feel comfortable kayaking.

Pick the Right Boat

Upon checking our kayak reviews, you’ve noticed recurring themes.

The finest kayaks for dogs are often spacious, sturdy, and have a large max weight capacity.

Additional features, such as whether your kayak has a cup holder, are mostly for your convenience and comfort, not your dog’s. 

The first element to enjoying a fun day in the waters with your furry friend is picking the correct kayak.

Start Slowly in the Water

After your dog becomes accustomed to the kayak on dry land, you may gradually introduce it to the water. 

If at any moment your pet companion appears overwhelmed, pace down and continue using rewards to train your dog how to act while kayaking.

The goal is to make them comfortable and accustomed to lying or sitting inside the kayak on shallow water before attempting a longer journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the FAQs on the best kayaks for dogs.

Can a dog go in an inflatable kayak?

Yes. Inflatable kayaks provide minimal safety risks and offer an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog.

Train your dog to stay safe and calm throughout your kayaking excursion.

Can a dog fit in a one-person kayak?

Yes, most canines can fit in solo kayaks so long as the kayak’s cockpit or deck is big enough to accommodate both of you comfortably.

Do they make kayaks for dogs?

Yes, manufacturers are increasingly developing kayaks for dogs. 

These kayaks come with special features to accommodate the dog, and any necessary supplies, while ensuring the dog doesn’t obstruct the paddler.