Minnesotans know the best way to keep cool on a hot summer day is to be on the water. Good thing we’ve got over 10,000 lakes and countless water activities to choose from — like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). SUP’s not only a great way to enjoy our lakes, but a great workout as well. And Fido loves a good splish-splash, too! Lucky for you, we’ve got the scoop on a few of the best dog-friendly paddle board rentals in the metro to get your (doggy) paddle on with your pooch.
First, a few things to keep in mind:
- Consider a canine life vest to keep your pup safe in case they decide paddling on top of the water isn’t as exciting as paddling in the water.
- Help keep the paddleboards (and your bare feet!) safe from the scratches of a frantic pup. If you don’t think your doggo will be comfortable or calm enough for a paddleboard adventure, this sport may not be for them.
On to the good stuff!
On-Location Rentals
These outfitters provide on-location SUP (and other) rentals right on the lake:
Wheel Fun Rentals, multiple locations in Minneapolis and St Paul: Bde Maka Ska/Lake Calhoun (map), Lake Harriet (map), Lake Nokomis (map), and Lake Como (map)
The Black Oar, Lake Minnetonka (map)
Bay Rentals, Lake Minnetonka (map)
Other Rentals
Some of these equally dog-loving proprietors may not have a physical storefront for rentals, but offer a variety of rental options, like weekend or week-long rentals, SUP classes, or delivery of a rental paddleboard to your location. Check out their websites for more details.
Pick-up from their storefront in Roseville
Minnesota Mermaid Paddle Board Rental
Prior Lake, Lakeville and delivery
St. Croix Stand Up Paddleboard Co.
Delivery or pick-up service in the St. Croix Valley
What are you waiting for? Grab your furry best friend and get paddling! And make sure to share your SUP-and-pup photos with #SidewalkDog on Instagram.