How To River Surf With Your Best Friend

In Littleton, Colorado on the South Platte River, Glide team rider Alex Mauer river surfs with mans best friend on a local river wave named after him. On Alex's River wave, Alex gives us a few tips on how to surf with and keep your dog safe on the river.

“Surfing with a dog is really cool. I was giving a river surf lesson to a friend who brought his dog along. After surfing for a few hours he suggested that I try and surf with his dog, Wrigley, on my board. It was a really cool experience and got me thinking about a few tips to keep your dog safe on the water.

First and foremost, make sure your dog is wearing safety gear. Yes, they make dog PFD's! I ride for NRS so I suggest the life jacket they make! You can find it here. 

Next, you want to make sure your dog is comfortable in moving water. Swim the rapid and play around with your dog. Then, get your dog comfortable standing on your board. Paddle around a flat section to make sure your dog doesn't jump off the board once you paddle into the wave. After getting your pup used to the river and making sure that your dog is comfortable in moving water and on your board, you are ready to surf!

*Disclaimer: In the photos I am aware the Wrigley doesn't have safety gear on. His owner was spotting him downriver of the wave. I also took safety precautions by entering and exiting the wave on my belly to ensure Wrigley wouldn’t fall off my board.”

To see the video of Wrigley and Alex click here.