Being active – SUP with your dog

Do you ever go SUP with your dog? I have owned a SUP board since the summer of 2022, and I regularly go for a tour on the SUP with my girls. We enjoy that immensely! So today a blog about Supping with your dog!

For those who don’t know (yet): SUP stands for Stand Up Paddle (or Paddling). The name actually gives it away: you stand on a board and you move forward with a special paddle. SUP boards are available in a hardboard variant, but also in inflatable. I have the last category, I can take my board everywhere in a carrying bag, inflate it on the spot and then enjoy being on the water with it.

SUP is great fun to do, for a number of reasons:

• it can be a big workout, but you can also enjoy a relaxed tour
• meanwhile you enjoy the beautiful nature that your country has to offer, and the fresh air
• you can relax in the moments when you just float around
• many dogs find it very nice to go along, provided they are taught how in a positive way!

It’s addictive though, haha!

Do a SUP workshop with your dog

If you have never paddled before, it is advisable to follow a workshop, with or without your dog. A few years ago I followed a workshop at ikSUP HondenSUP in Loosdrecht, and that was fantastic! I can wholeheartedly recommend this, also because you will immediately receive tips for supping with your dog.
Also check in your area whether there is a SUP school at local water sports areas, there are several spread throughout the country.

Buy your own SUP board

You can often obtain advice for purchasing your own board from the person with whom you take lessons and/or a workshop, but stores such as Wakestore can also help and advise you very nicely. An additional advantage of Wakestore (where I also bought mine) is that they have a lot of different boards in stock, and also a lot of accessories.

What to take with you when you go SUP with your dog

Some things I always have with me when I go SUP with the dog are:

• a waterproof bag for my stuff and keys
• a waterproof case for my phone
• an extra set of clothes
• sunscreen
• water for myself and the dog
• snacks for the dog
• a life jacket for the dog (also for good swimmers)
• a mat for the SUP, on which the dog can lie
• water shoes for myself
• towels
• a bathrobe for the dog (you can buy this at DogStore, my own shop on Etsy), for afterwards
• You can also take things like a GoPro with you of course 🙂

Do you have to stand?

Of course not! It may be called Stand Up Paddle, but if you want to stay seated, stay seated! Even then it can be a good workout for your arms, and especially when your dog is on the SUP for the first time, it is often more pleasant to stay close together.

Most importantly, as far as I’m concerned: have fun! Enjoy and relax 🙂