For dog lovers of every kind.

For surfers and non-surfers, first-timers and competitors, participants, and spectators. All are welcome" — two-legged and four.

About Us

We know life is a journey. We believe the love for our dogs, and the love of surfing, make for a better world. Surf Dog Association is the only all-encompassing dog surfing association — bringing every level of person into the surf world, into surf culture, and into a whole new way to bond with their dog. It started with a lineage of rescue dogs teaching each other to surf, one generation to the next, and grew into something bigger: a place to learn safely, compete, and belong. Today, Surf Dog Association offers lessons, events, community, and inspiration for dogs and their humans up and down the California coast and beyond — because no matter where you're starting from, there's a place for you here. All are welcome — two-legged and four.

Safety first surf lessons for all ages.

No experience necessary. Just a dog who loves the water, and a little patience. Our lessons take you from solid ground to real waves — safely, step by step, with instructors who've trained world-class surf dogs themselves.

Meet the legends who carved the wave.

Meet the dogs who made this sport what it is. Discover their stories, their titles, and the unique style that made each of them unforgettable. Every surf dog's story deserves to be remembered, long after their last wave. 
  • "Jill was very confident and made me feel at ease to be with my dog in the waves. We had a blast with our very first surf session."

    —Michelle Goss

  • "As long time surf dog owners we met with Jill for advice on starting with our new dog Rocket. After just one day, Rocket gained the skills and confidence he needed to compete!"

    —Dan and Amy Nykolyako.

  • "My dog Koa loves the beach. I wanted to add surfing to our fun adventures. So, I enlisted the instructors at the SDA to teach us how to surf together!"

    —Dr. Kristina Welsh

Upcoming Events

Helen Woodward Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon Sept 13th

The nation’s longest-running canine surfing competitions, where dozens of dogs ride the waves to raise life-saving funds for shelter pets.

Surf Dog Association Taco Tuesday Meet Up: Oct 20th

Come meet your people! Grab your four-legged best friend and meet us at Del Mar Dog Beach in San Diego for some awesome waves, and celebrate Taco Tuesday!

Give us a howl or a holler!

Have a question, a story to share, or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you. Whether you're curious about taking a lesson, looking to join one of our meetups, or get involved with an event, or want to talk gear, media, or partnerships, reach out and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
Two-legged or four, we're always happy to hear from a fellow surf dog fan.