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Best Kayak for Dogs? Check Out Neris Folding Kayaks
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posted by Vitaliy Deputat
Taking your pet—whether it’s a dog or a cat—on a kayak trip isn’t just fun, it adds a whole new dimension to the experience. When you're paddling alone, nature is peaceful and calming.
But when you see your dog or cat soaking it all in, eyes wide, ears perked, sniffing the breeze? That’s pure bliss.
It’s not just about the journey anymore—it’s about sharing it with a family member.
Problems With Other Kayaks
Solid Kayaks: Not Enough Room, Lack of Stability
Traditional solid kayaks just aren't designed with pets in mind. They’re built for people—plain and simple. One of the clearest examples of that is the hatch design. These narrow openings are intended for gear storage on long paddling trips, not for living, breathing animals. Yet many paddlers still try to use them to fit their pets. And while it might work in a pinch, it brings a lot of downsides.
First, pets are out of reach—often placed behind the paddler, completely out of sight. That alone can make both the pet and the owner nervous. We’ve heard from kayakers who said their dogs became anxious, shifting around, trying to move from side to side, or even attempting to jump out. When your pet is behind you, you can’t react quickly if something goes wrong. You can’t calm them, reassure them, or prevent them from making a sudden move.
This brings us to the second major issue: stability. Solid kayaks are already more prone to capsizing because they rely on the paddler’s balance and control. Add a panicking dog or curious cat into the mix—especially one that sees a fish, a goose, or any moving creature—and the risk of tipping over goes way up. These kayaks aren’t built to handle unpredictable movement from a four-legged companion, and when things go wrong, they can go wrong fast.
So while traditional solid kayaks may be fine for solo paddlers, they fall short when it comes to safely and comfortably including pets in the adventure.
Sit-on-top Kayaks: Lack of Protection & Stability
The second class of kayaks is the sit-on-top variety. These are usually wider and offer better stability than traditional solid kayaks, especially in calm conditions. That makes them seem like a good choice for paddling with pets. But the issue is—they're open and flat. When the weather turns or you’re hit with waves, sit-on-top kayaks can get overwhelmed quickly. Without protective sides, water rushes over the surface, and in choppier conditions, they can capsize just as easily as narrow kayaks. They’re fine for glassy lakes on windless days, but real-life paddling isn't always ideal.
Inflatable Kayaks: Stable, but Lacking Durability and Don’t Track Well
Then there are inflatable kayaks. They’re buoyant, wide, and often feel like the most stable option out there. But the trade-off? Durability. Inflatable kayaks are typically made from thinner materials, and while that’s okay for casual outings, pets add a wild card. Dogs and cats have claws, teeth, and the occasional panicked moment. One swipe or bite could seriously damage the shell—especially in low-cost or thin-hulled models. And on top of that, inflatable kayaks don’t track nearly as well as hardshells or hybrids, making long-distance paddling harder and more tiring.
Neris Hybrid Kayaks is The Answer
That’s where Neris hybrid folding kayaks come in—offering what might just be the best of all worlds. With a solid aluminum frame, a durable high-density PVC skin, and inflatable sponsons on either side, they provide incredible tracking, stability, and toughness.
They behave like a solid kayak on the water, but the sponsons act like buoyant side stabilizers—making capsizing much harder, even if your pet moves around or gets startled. And because the interior is spacious and open, your pet stays comfortable and within reach the entire time.
Kayaking With Big Dogs: Remove the Spray Deck
Remove the spray deck and the Neris becomes more like an open canoe—with a spacious cockpit that pets can enter and move around in freely. Whether it’s a small terrier or a golden retriever, your furry friend has room to relax and feel secure.
This open layout also keeps your pet within arm’s reach. You can place them between your legs or in front of you, so you’re always in control. If they do decide to take a dive, you can react quickly and pull them back in—without risking a capsize, thanks to those stabilizing sponsons.
Compared to solid, sit-on-top, or standard inflatable kayaks, Neris hybrids offer a rare balance of stability, control, comfort, and pet-friendliness. In a market full of compromises, this is one option that truly checks all the boxes.
Choosing the Right Neris Kayak for Your Pet
When selecting a Neris kayak for paddling with your pet, their size should be your starting point. The right match ensures both comfort and safety—without over- or under-packing the cockpit.
Kayaks for Small Dogs
If you have a small dog or a cat, you're in luck. This is the most flexible scenario, and nearly any Neris kayak will do the job. From the ultra-compact Smart Mini to the Smart Pro XS, smaller pets fit easily and comfortably into these models without requiring much extra space.
Kayaks for Medium-Sized Dogs
For medium-sized dogs, such as Border Collies or similar breeds, it’s best to start with the Neris Smart Pro S or the larger Smart Pro. These kayaks offer more room for your dog to sit or lie down, while also giving you better weight balance and control.
Kayaks for Big Dogs
If you’re paddling with a large dog, like a Golden Retriever or larger, go with one of the more spacious models—specifically the Neris Smart Pro. This kayak features a larger cockpit and higher payload capacity, making it ideal for big pets who need more floor space and stability during longer paddles.
To keep it simple: small pets can ride in nearly any kayak. Medium pets need a bit more space. Large pets need a large kayak. And if you're taking a cat? Any of the above should work just fine.
Training Your Pet for Kayaking
When it comes to kayaking with your dog, preparation is everything. The last thing you want is to get on the water and have your dog panic—that can ruin the trip for both of you. Instead, plan ahead and train gradually.
Start by assembling your kayak on land—either in your backyard or near the shore. Lay down a foam pad or a soft blanket where your dog will sit. Foam pads are ideal because they’re waterproof and comfortable. This not only gives your dog a cozy spot, but it also helps them understand that this is their space in the kayak.
Begin training with simple commands like “jump in,” “sit,” “stay,” and “lie down.” These are key for maintaining control and keeping your pet calm, especially if the water gets choppy. The “lie down” command is particularly helpful—it encourages your dog to lower their center of gravity, making them feel more stable and less likely to panic.
Practice these commands while the kayak is still on land. Use treats, praise, and repetition to reinforce good behavior. Make sure your dog understands and reliably follows the commands before you even consider launching into the water.
A solid dry run on land builds the foundation for a smooth, enjoyable experience when you're finally out paddling together.
Get the Right PFD for Your Dog
The second key to safe paddling with your dog is a proper canine PFD—a personal flotation device. This isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s absolutely critical. A good PFD gives you peace of mind, knowing that your dog will stay afloat if they end up in the water, no matter the situation.
Before you hit the water, make sure your dog is fully comfortable wearing the PFD. Let them walk, run, and move around with it on while you’re still on land. The more familiar it feels, the more natural it’ll be once they’re in the kayak.
Also, practice getting in and out of the kayak with the PFD on. Most dog PFDs come with a handle on top—this is super important. Test it out by gently lifting your dog in and out of the boat, so both of you know what to expect. If your dog jumps or falls in during a paddle, that handle is your lifeline for getting them back in quickly and safely.
Secure Your Dog with a Tether
Once your dog is comfortable in their PFD, the next step is to secure them to the kayak. Use a rope or leash to tie the PFD to the aluminum frame of your kayak. The goal here is to create a balance—the rope should be long enough to give your dog a little freedom to move around and find a comfortable spot, but short enough to keep them close and within reach at all times.
This is especially important if your dog gets excited and jumps in after something—like a fish, a bird, or a ripple in the water. With the PFD and tether, they won’t drift away. You can gently pull them back toward the kayak and guide them in using the handle on their vest.
Just remember to test the length beforehand. Around two meters is a good rule of thumb—long enough for movement, short enough for safety.
Your First Paddle: Getting On the Water
Once your kayak is fully assembled, the seats are in place, and your dog’s spot is set up with their blanket or foam pad, it’s time to do your first run. This is where everything you’ve prepared starts to come together.
There are two ways you can enter the kayak: from the shore or from a dock. Each has its own feel, and it’s worth trying both to see what’s most comfortable for you and your dog.
Entering from shore is usually more gradual and stable. You can guide your dog in first, help them settle, then step in yourself. This method gives you more time and space to make adjustments.
Entering from a dock can be quicker but a bit trickier with balance. You'll want to help your dog into the kayak first, then carefully step in behind or in front, depending on your seating arrangement.
For your very first paddle on the water, stick to calm, flat conditions. This helps your dog feel safe and keeps their nerves in check. Some dogs might get a little anxious during this first trip—that’s normal. Offer gentle reassurance and maybe even a treat to keep things positive. Once they realize that being in the kayak is safe and even fun, they’ll settle in and begin to really enjoy the ride.
This first launch isn’t about distance or speed. It’s about building trust, creating a sense of routine, and laying the foundation for many more paddling adventures together.
Building Up to Longer Paddles
As your dog gets more comfortable on the water, you'll likely notice a beautiful shift. Many dogs begin to truly settle in and even start to claim their own favorite spot in the kayak.
Some curl up near the bow or stern, enjoying what’s probably the best view on the water—ears in the breeze, eyes on the horizon. If your dog does this, let them. It’s a sign they’re relaxed, confident, and enjoying the ride as much as you are.
When you’re planning longer paddles, though, you’ll need to be a bit more prepared—not just for yourself, but for your dog too. First and foremost: bring water. Dogs get thirsty, especially under the sun. You should also bring a leash for any stops on shore. Whether it's a small island or a forested bank, dogs can get excited by new smells and dart off after wildlife. Keeping them leashed or tethered when on land is crucial.
It’s also a good idea to pack a favorite toy or two, especially if your dog gets bored easily. Having something familiar to chew or cuddle can help them settle in during long stretches.
And yes—be ready for bathroom breaks. Dogs will eventually need to go. They might do their business on shore, or it might happen right in the boat. Either way, it’s your responsibility to clean up. Always bring waste bags or a scoop and be respectful of nature and fellow paddlers.
Longer paddles are a fantastic way to bond with your dog, as long as you plan ahead and make it a fun, stress-free experience for both of you.
What to Do If You Capsize
While it’s not so easy to capsize a Neris folding kayak—thanks to the two inflatable sponsons on each side that add stability and buoyancy—it’s still important to be prepared. Unexpected things can happen, especially if your dog panics, moves suddenly, or jumps out.
If you do find yourself in the water, the most important thing is to stay calm. Don’t panic. The sponsons on each side of your kayak will help keep it from drifting or flipping further, and both you and your dog are wearing PFDs, which means you’re safe and floating.
Step one: turn your kayak upright. It may take a bit of effort, but it’s doable, especially with the sponsons helping to keep the kayak buoyant as you maneuver.
Once it’s upright, focus on your dog. Because they’re secured with a rope to the kayak frame and wearing their PFD, they won’t be far from you. Gently guide them toward the kayak and use the PFD handle to help lift them back into position.
After your dog is safely in, you can climb in yourself. And yes—expect a full-body shake from your dog once they’re back in the cockpit. That might leave you wet, but if that’s your biggest problem, you’re in great shape.
The good news is, with a Neris kayak’s design and a few calm, practiced actions, even a capsize can be a manageable part of the adventure.
Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearsing a Capsize
In an ideal world, you and your dog would practice capsizing and self-rescue together—just like you would with any new paddling skill. But it’s important to approach this gently. Only try this once your dog is fully comfortable being in the kayak and around the water.
Keep the mood light and playful. You’re not simulating an emergency—you’re just building familiarity and trust. Practice turning the kayak upright, guiding your dog back to the boat, and lifting them in using the PFD handle. Let your dog understand that even if they end up in the water, it’s okay—and that you’ll be right there to help.
This kind of preparation builds confidence for both of you. That way, if a real capsize ever does happen, it won’t be scary—it’ll be something you’re both ready for.
Confidence Through Preparation
The best paddling experiences come when both you and your dog feel calm, secure, and in sync. While capsizing is unlikely in a well-designed kayak like a Neris, practicing what to do—together—turns a potential panic into a moment of teamwork. With preparation, the right gear, and a relaxed approach, even the unexpected becomes part of the adventure.
A Note on White Water Kayaking
While Neris kayaks are stable, durable, and capable of handling a variety of water conditions, they are not designed for continuous white water use. And more importantly, we strongly advise against taking pets on any white water kayaking trips.
Even if your kayak can handle occasional rough patches, white water environments pose serious risks. Fast currents, rocks, and unpredictable conditions can quickly turn dangerous—especially if you capsize. A tethered dog can be swept under or dragged by the current, and even with a PFD, the risk of injury or drowning is real.
White water paddling requires precision, quick reactions, and a focused mind. Adding a pet to that mix introduces unnecessary stress and potential danger for both of you.
Stick to calm waters. That’s where the joy of paddling with your pet really shines—peaceful, safe, and full of shared discovery. Leave the rapids to solo adventurers, and give your furry friend the smooth, stable journey they deserve.
Final Thoughts: The Joy of Paddling With Your Pet
Sharing a kayak adventure with your dog—or even your cat—is one of the most rewarding ways to explore nature. It’s not just about the scenery or the rhythm of paddling anymore. It’s about watching your pet discover the world with you, feeling their excitement, their calm, their trust.
With a Neris hybrid kayak, you're not just choosing a boat—you’re choosing a stable, pet-friendly, thoughtfully designed platform that makes those experiences safe, comfortable, and easy to enjoy. From its wide open cockpit and solid frame to its inflatable sponsons and portability, everything about it supports the unique needs of paddling with a pet.
So take your time, train smart, and enjoy the journey. Your pet will thank you—with a happy tail, a curious nose, and a whole new love for the water.
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