Activities For Canoeing Enthusiasts With Dogs
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Introduction
Canoe enthusiasts! We welcome you and your dog into our activity guide and hope that some of these outings and projects appeal to you both. More than anything, we know you want to hang out together, but if you can do so while jumping into one of your favorite pastimes, then that makes hanging out even better. We know you’re about to make memories. Please share with us your photos and other canoeing related activities below.
Overnight Canoe Camping
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Moderate
Hard
24 hrs
Items needed
Camping gear
Doggie life vest
Food and water
Harness and leash
Doggie waste bags
Canoe and paddles
Doggie saddle bag
Bear bell
Activity description
We get it: your dog is part of the family pack, and you want to take that little champ wherever you go. You want to show them off and let them get out and experience our beautiful world. You’re the best dog owner for feeling that way! You’re the reason we’re writing this activity guide in the first place. You’re going to need a good plan, and you’ll definitely want to go over the packing checklist a few times. Just know that you’re not stranded in nature. Nature will be your friend. You’re not new to this canoeing thing, but you may be new to canoeing and camping with a dog. We hope this is a wonderful experience where many memories are made.
Step
1
Make a solid plan
First, introduce your pup to the canoe, that way they’re not stepping into it for the very first time on the day of your trip. We advise taking your dog out for a few mini trips prior to the big outing. Map out your route along the lake or river, and be sure you’re headed toward an area where you may actually camp. Pack a piece of home like a blanket or pillow that your dog adores. This will make rest out in nature, well, more natural for them.
Step
2
Have fun on the water
Enjoy the journey. It’s not all about the destination. More than half the fun of this trip is getting to the campout. Although, after a day of canoeing, you’ll be looking forward to stretching out under the stars or in a tent. Go ahead and hook a bear bell to your dog’s collar, so as they explore, they’re alerting wildlife to their frolicking presence.
Step
3
A camp-out to bark home about
When it’s time to hit land, you’ll be carrying backpacks and possibly your canoe, so let your doggo help out if they’re large enough. Grab a saddle bag, and let them haul some of the camping gear. They’ll enjoy helping out. Most dogs were bred to assist, so it’s in their blood. Pay attention to your dog. Often, they notice the little things, so you can learn a lot by following their lead.
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Canoeing Day Trip
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Moderate
Hard
12 hrs
Items needed
Doggie life vest
Snacks, food and water
Harness and leash
Doggie waste bags
Canoe and paddles
Activity description
If you’re looking to explore new stretches of new waterways, this is a really wonderful activity, and your pup is going to love it. Basically, they get to look around, sniff all the new smells, and even relax while you do all the paddling. Your pooch can even jump in for a swim with you. A canoeing day trip is pawfect for the months of May through October, when the water is cool and then warms up and then begins to cool off again. You’ll get some great photos and make some sweet memories with your furry pal. So, don’t be afraid. The only way you’ll know if your dog can do this is to try it. We think they’ll be begging for more trips in no time.
Step
1
Prep for your canoeing day trip
Most people who adventure across the water with dogs swear that the canoe is the way to go. There’s plenty of room for all of your gear, their gear, and multiple bodies and pets. For your first time, pick a smooth waterway, and then you can begin to branch out as everyone gets comfortable with the idea. Look up online lists of what your pup might need for the journey.
Step
2
Canoe time
As you paddle, you should command your dog to sit, lay, or stay. Train them on how to ride from the beginning. Be sure to stop along the bank or on an island every now and then so that your pup can run around, play, and go to the potty. It’s a good time to break out the food, snacks, and water, too. And of course, make time to swim and cool off!
Step
3
Invite a friend and fur buddy
We’re not crazy! Bring a friend, make a date, or grab a couple of canoes and get the family outing started. We’re serious. Start off on calm waters, and multiple dogs can actually be fine. Dogs bring people together. They make us laugh, and definitely keep us entertained. If they’re having fun, we’re having fun!
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Carving Your Own Canoe
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0 Votes
Any Day
Expensive
Hard
2 Hours
Items needed
Tree (Log)
An adze
How to YouTube videos
Sandstone
Polish
Activity description
Before you head out on a canoe trip, maybe you want to be even more connected to nature. Sure, you have your trusty doggo by your side, and you absolutely love the water. But have you ever considered building your own canoe? You can look up tons of online videos to assist you in this amazing endeavor, but we hope you’ll get the basics right here. Your little sidekick can keep you company as you work. Your pooch will also remind you that you need to take breaks. They’ll want you to walk with them, and they’ll need to drink water and eat occasionally. Our dogs keep us sane, don’t they? They give us routine when otherwise we might be crazy.
Step
1
Finding your tree
First of all, you’re awesome for taking this on. Remember this throughout the entire process. The end product will certainly be a wonderful reward. You’ll need to first find a log. You can hunt for pine, chestnut, spruce, redwood, and cedar. The log should be at least 8 feet long, and it should be free of rot.
Step
2
Using the adze
You’ve got to learn and love this tool. It’s a mix between a hoe and an ax. Tear away the bark, flatten one side of the log (for the bottom), and then you can actually use fire to help soften the wood. Look up tips on this technique! It helps in digging out the canoe. You’ll repeat the fire step over and over as you keep digging out inches of ash. This takes time, but remember: you’re "pawesome." You can play with your dog while you wait for that slow burn.
Step
3
Sticking with it
After all the slow-burning, you’ll be ready to rub your canoe down with sandstone. You’ll want to polish it and waterproof it. There are a number of ways to do this. Research the sap coating or the pine tar and ash method. Soon, you’ll be ready to use your hand-carved canoe!
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More Fun Ideas...
Wade a Creek
You’re used to paddling across the water, but why not hike a creek? During the summer months, the weather can grow dangerously hot, so try a water-covered path instead. Take your dog along. Be sure to watch for slithering, life-threatening wildlife.
Paddle Barking
No, we didn’t mean paddle boating. We mean paddle barking. Hop on over into the pool on a raft and paddle around. Perhaps one of your pup’s favorite things to do is to stand at the helm and bark. And then jump into the water, of course!
Conclusion
If you’re a canoe enthusiast, we know you already love paddling through gorgeous waterways and exploring amazing landscapes. We just hope you’ll consider taking your dog with you next time. And maybe during the cold months, you and your buddy can work on hollowing that canoe out in the barn or garage. Best of luck no matter your canoe adventures!