At Pacifica, California, canine competitors took to the waves for the tenth annual World Dog Surfing Championships, an event that showcases the skill and enthusiasm of dogs riding surfboards. The competition featured 20 dogs competing across multiple categories, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and tandem surfing.

Participants were judged on a range of criteria, such as confidence on the board, the size of the waves they tackled, and the duration of time spent riding each wave. The event draws both experienced canine surfers and newcomers, with owners carefully selecting ideal waves to maximize their pets' performance.

One of the competitors, Rusty, a miniature pinscher owned by Sophia Sadlowski, first stepped onto a board as a lighthearted effort to capture cute photos. However, Sadlowski noted that once Rusty began surfing, he was reluctant to leave the board, demonstrating unexpected enthusiasm for the sport.

The competition concluded with the top honor awarded to Rippin’ Rosie, a labrador from Soquel in Santa Cruz County, who excelled in her performance and earned the championship title. The event continues to combine outdoor recreation and pet companionship, celebrating the unique bond between dogs and their owners in an energetic and unusual sporting environment.