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What Is the World Dog Surfing Championships?
The World Dog Surfing Championships is a one-of-a-kind annual event held at Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, California. Since its debut in 2016, it’s grown into a global spectacle where the world’s most talented surfing dogs showcase their skills. Organized by TasteTV, this event combines athletic competition, adorable canine antics, and a fun beach festival atmosphere.
How Does the Competition Work?
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Dogs are grouped by weight categories: Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large.
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There are also tandem heats—dog with dog or dog with human.
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Judges score based on balance, style, ride duration, and overall performance flair.
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Winners in each division compete for the coveted Top Dog Award.
2025 Event Highlights & Winners
The 2025 event took place on August 2 and featured 15–20 canine surfers despite foggy skies and challenging “washing machine” waves. Here are the stars of the show:
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Cacau – A chocolate Labrador from Brazil, crowned Top Dog Champion for the second year in a row.
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Faith – A 14-year-old Pit Bull who claimed first place in the Large Dogs division, likely her final competition.
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Iza – A 5-year-old French Bulldog who took the Medium Dogs division title.
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Charlie – A 10-year-old Yellow Labrador who competed in the Extra-Large Single Surfer heat and a tandem “Dream Team” event.
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Rosie – Charlie’s partner in the tandem heats, making them one of the event’s most beloved duos.
Why These Dogs Made Waves
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Cacau wowed with consistency and fearless wave-riding skills.
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Faith inspired everyone with her determination, proving age is just a number.
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Iza charmed the crowd with her compact power and adorable focus.
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Charlie & Rosie lit up the beach with synchronized rides and team spirit.
The Story Behind the Surf
The event began with only five canine competitors in its first year, but now draws crowds of thousands. The Championships also raise awareness for pet adoption and support local shelters, with rescue groups often present at the beach.
Similar dog-surfing competitions are held worldwide, including the Loews Coronado Bay Surf Dog Competition in San Diego and the Noosa Surfing Dog Championship in Australia.
Why This Event Captivates
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Pure Joy – Dogs genuinely seem to love the sport.
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Unbreakable Bonds – The connection between handler and dog is inspiring.
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Community Spirit – The festival atmosphere blends pet lovers, surfers, and families.
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A Good Cause – Supports local charities and promotes rescue adoptions.
Final Thoughts
The World Dog Surfing Championships is more than just a competition it’s a celebration of courage, skill, and the love between humans and their pets. Whether you’re cheering for a first-time pup or a seasoned champ like Cacau, it’s impossible not to smile as these dogs ride the waves.
So, mark your calendar for next August, grab your beach chair, and get ready to witness the happiest surfers on Earth.
