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Canoeing can be a fantastic way to bond with your dog and enjoy the great outdoors together. Our recent experience with our dog, Sundae, on his first canoe trip was a success, thanks to preparation and a focus on making it fun. Here are some tips based on what worked for us, to help you and your pup have a great time on the water.
1. Start on Land
Tip: Begin by getting your dog comfortable with the canoe while it's still on land.
We set up the canoe in our backyard and let Sundae explore it at his own pace. He sniffed around, jumped in and out, and got familiar with this new, strange object. Reward your dog’s curiosity with lots of treats and positive reinforcement. This helps them associate the canoe with good things from the start.
2. Practice Jumping In and Out
Tip: Practice getting in and out of the canoe on land before hitting the water.
We knew that getting in and out could be tricky for Sundae, especially if the canoe is floating on the water. We practiced this while the canoe was on land, encouraging Sundae with praise and treats each time he successfully jumped in and out. This built his confidence and made him comfortable with the process.
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3. Invest in a Good PFD
Tip: Ensure your dog has a high-quality personal flotation device (PFD).
Safety is paramount, so we made sure Sundae had a well-fitted, high-quality PFD. We let him wear it during our practice sessions to get used to it. This not only ensured his safety on the water but also gave us peace of mind.
4. Create a Comfortable Space
Tip: Make the canoe a cozy and safe place for your dog.
To provide a comfortable spot for Sundae and prevent slipping, we put a non-slip Z-mat at the bottom of the canoe. This made the canoe feel more familiar and secure for him.
5. Keep the Experience Fun
Tip: Focus on making the first trip enjoyable and keep it short.
Our primary goal was to make Sundae’s first trip a positive experience. We didn’t paddle too far, keeping the journey short and sweet. We paddled slowly, allowing Sundae to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the water. We took breaks, let him jump out and swim when it was safe, and kept the atmosphere relaxed and fun.
6. Use Plenty of Treats
Tip: Use treats to reward good behavior and reinforce positive experiences.
Throughout the entire process, treats were crucial. We used them to reward Sundae for getting into the canoe, staying calm while we paddled, and simply enjoying the ride. This constant positive reinforcement helped make the experience enjoyable for him.
Our First Trip with Sundae
When the day of our first canoeing trip arrived, all our preparation paid off. Sundae jumped into the canoe with confidence and settled onto his mat. When we were on the water, he was a little unsure at first, but after getting familiar, he seemed to genuinely enjoy the experience. We paddled on a calm, lake, and it was heartwarming to see him enjoy something we love so much. We kept the trip short, ensuring it ended on a high note.
Conclusion
Canoeing with your dog can be an exciting adventure if you take the time to prepare and focus on making it enjoyable. By starting on land, practicing entry and exit, ensuring safety with a good PFD, creating a comfortable space, and keeping the experience positive with plenty of treats, you can set the stage for many more paddling adventures together.
If you're considering taking your dog canoeing, remember to be patient, go at their pace, and make it fun!
Have comments or additional tips to share with other parents? Drop a note below in the comments section. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at em.outdoors@outlook.com .
Happy paddling!!!
He really did well. You guys did a good job of managing puppy energy.
Great looking boat in those photos too!