Do you want to teach your dog, obsessed with chasing skateboards, how to ride one instead? You may be thinking, what are the best skateboards for dogs?
You may give your dog a healthy dose of exercise and mental stimulation by teaching them how to skateboard. The size, shape, material, wheels, and durability of the skateboard you select for your dog are just some features to consider. So, let’s check out some of the best dog skateboards on the market and pick the perfect one!
What to Look for When Buying a Skateboard for Your Dog
Before we dive into reviews of the best dog skateboards, let’s look at some of the features you should look out for when shopping for a skateboard for your dog.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a skateboard for your dog. You want to ensure the board is manageable for your dog. A board that is too big will be hard for your dog to balance and manoeuvre, while a too-small board will be unstable and uncomfortable.
The skateboard’s ideal size depends on your dog’s size and weight. Generally speaking, smaller dogs (under 25 pounds) can use mini-cruisers or penny boards that are around 22 to 28 inches long. Medium-sized dogs (25 to 50 pounds) can use cruisers or longboards around 28 to 36 inches long. Large dogs (over 50 pounds) can use longboards or drop-through boards that are over 36 inches long.
Shape
The shape of the skateboard also affects how easy or difficult it is for your dog to ride it. We have two types of skateboards for dogs: flats and concave.
Flat boards are easier for dogs to ride as they provide more stability and contact with the ground. In comparison, concave boards are harder for dogs to depend on as they require more skill and coordination to control and are also more suitable for advanced riders as they allow dogs to perform tricks and turns with more precision and speed.
Material
Wood and plastic are the two main types of skateboard materials. Wooden boards are made from pieces of wood, while plastic boards are made from plastic that has been molded.
Wood boards are stronger and last longer than plastic boards because your dog’s claws and teeth can do more damage to them. Plastic boards are less stable and don’t feel as good on your dog’s paws because they don’t stick as well.
Wheels
The skateboard’s wheels affect how smooth and fast it rolls on different surfaces. There are two main types of skateboard wheels: soft and hard.
Soft wheels are better for dogs than hard wheels, as they provide more cushioning and shock absorption on rough surfaces. They also make less noise and vibration, which can be scary for some dogs.
Hard wheels provide less cushioning and shock absorption on rough surfaces. Their noises and vibration are unbearable, which can be scary or annoying for some dogs.
Best Skateboards for Dogs Reviewed
Okay! Since you know what to look for when buying a dog, let’s look at some of the best skateboards for dogs currently trending.
Kryptonics Super Fat Cruiser
The Kryptonics Super Fat Cruiser is a great skateboard for dogs of all sizes and levels. It is a 30.5-inch long cruiser board with a super wide shape and a single kicktail. It is made of 8-ply maple wood, which is thick and durable. It has 60mm soft polyurethane wheels, which are smooth and quiet.
The Kryptonics Super Fat Cruiser is easy for dogs to ride, providing excellent stability and control. It is one of the best-selling skateboards for dogs, with many positive reviews.
Magneto Mini Cruiser
The Magneto Mini Cruiser is a great skateboard for small to medium-sized dogs and beginner to intermediate riders. It is a 27.5-inch mini-cruiser board with a double kicktail and a concave shape. It is made of solid bamboo wood, which is strong and eco-friendly. It has 60mm soft polyurethane wheels, which are smooth and grippy.
The Magneto Mini Cruiser is easy for dogs to ride, providing good balance and manoeuvrability. It also has a beautiful design with natural wood grain and colourful graphics. It is one of the best skateboards for dogs in 2023.
Eggboards Mini Longboard
The Eggboards Mini Longboard is a great skateboard for medium to large-sized dogs and intermediate-to-advanced riders. It is a 19-inch long mini-longboard board with a flat shape and no kicktail. It is made of 7-ply maple wood, which is durable and flexible. It is easy for dogs to ride, providing great stability and speed. It also has a unique design and is one of the best-reviewed skateboards for dogs.
How to Teach Your Dog to Skateboard
Skateboarding is not an innate skill for dogs, so it takes patience and a positive attitude when training your dog. Here are some basic steps you can follow to teach your dog to skateboard:
First, introduce the skateboard to your dog in a non-threatening way. Allow them to sniff and explore the board without any movement. Positive reinforcement, such as praise and treats, can encourage their interest in skateboarding.
Next, get your dog comfortable touching the skateboard with their paws. You can use treats or toys as incentives to lure them onto the board. Again, praise and reward your dog for their efforts.
Once your dog is comfortable with paw interaction, it is time to focus on balance. Please encourage them to stand on the skateboard with all four paws. Initially, it may be helpful to hold the skateboard steady or place it on a non-slip surface to prevent it from rolling.
As your dog becomes more confident, you can introduce movement. Use treats or toys to entice them to move forward or backwards on the skateboard. You can also gently assist by pushing or pulling the skateboard to help them get used to the motion.
Finally, as your dog gains more skills and confidence, gradually reduce the use of treats or toys and let them ride the skateboard independently. Increase the distance and speed of the ride and introduce different surfaces and obstacles to make the experience more challenging and rewarding.
Remember, consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are key to successful dog skateboarding training. With time and practice, your dog can become a skilled skateboarder, impressing everyone with their unique talent. So grab a skateboard, gather your treats, and get ready to embark on an exciting adventure with your furry companion.