Man Builds Custom Kayak So That His Dogs Can Go On Adventures With Him

When David Bahnson and his wife got their second Golden Retriever, he realized he needed a way to carry both dogs in his kayak if they were going to join him on adventures. The only problem was there was only one seat in the wooden Pygmy Coho kayak and three passengers.

David says his dogs have always loved traveling with them, whether it be by land, by air or by water! So he decided he would modify the kayak for his dogs.

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Photo credit: David Bahnson

David’s first dog, Susie, fit in one of the baggage compartments but it was cramped for her.

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Photo credit: David Bahnson

So when they got their second Golden, Ginger, David got another Coho kayak and this time he converted the two baggage compartments so they would be doggie friendly.

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Photo credit: David Bahnson

The wooden Pygmy kayaks come in kits for assembly, so David simply modified the plans.

He cut the baggage compartments to be smaller and narrower than was outlined, but made sure they would be the perfect fit for the dogs. David also made coamings for the doggie seats to keep them dry and prevent water from entering the hull.

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Photo credit: David Bahnson

Even though there isn’t room for a human to put their feet in the compartments, that is not a problem for dogs!

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Photo credit: David Bahnson

David says the dogs are very well behaved and always wait to be instructed to get in and out of the kayak. With everyone fitting comfortably in the kayak, the family has already paddled miles together and are enjoying their water adventures.

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Photo credit: David Bahnson

What a great thing to do for his dogs! I love it when pet parents go out of their way to include their dogs in their activities. Share this story with your dog-loving friends!

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