What Is The Best Surface For Dock Jumping Dogs?

There are dock jumping events in the US and worldwide, and if you have dock jumping dogs, you may be wondering what the best surface is for them to have under feet while they are training for competition.

Because dock jumping dogs run and leap into the water, it’s important to install flooring on the dock and ramp that offers safety and traction while being waterproof and durable. Oftentimes, you will see an artificial turf product on the running dock, and a durable, treaded or textured surface tile on the dock.

At most dock jumping competitions, a dock surface must be artificial turf, rubber, or outdoor carpeting in order to be approved before the competition.

Greatmats offers the best surfaces for dock jumping dogs. Although there are many suitable products available, the following are among the best:

True Turf Artificial Grass Turf is a great option for the dock. It provides excellent traction and looks amazing at the same time. This turf features a 9/16-inch pile height for a shorter turf option.

This is a popular dog agility turf for indoor and outdoor use as well as dog training facilities.

If you want to cover a larger area of your dock as this turf is available in 15-foot wide rolls cut to a custom cut length, check out True Turf Artificial Grass.




For a synthetic turf option with a taller pile height, consider the Greatmats Pet Turf Value with a 1-3/4 inch pile height. This turf is weather and UV resistant. It features a natural look.



Rubber Flooring Roll with Regrind Confetti could be used on a dock, ramp, or practice space. Suitable to be placed on any solid surface, this second run material is offered at a discount price, but works great in a dog training setting.

It has extra small color flecks that are varying colors, it is MAS Certified Green, and made in the USA from recycled rubber. It is slip-resistant, durable, comfortable, easy to clean, easy to install, safe, and affordable.



Dog Agility Mats are designed to be used for canine training, and they would work well if you’ll be doing conditioning with your dog indoors to train for dock diving, or for temporary use on a practice dock. They provide maximum comfort for trainers and dogs, and the EVA foam cushion allows training sessions to go longer without fatigue and injury.

They also offer a non slip grip top that provides excellent traction for the dog and the trainer, and they are densely constructed and free from lead and latex. They are waterproof, lightweight, and portable and require no adhesive or pad for installation. Simply align each mat and connect them together to provide a floor that will not pull apart while in use.



Finally, Royal Interlocking Carpet Tile is another option. It's an excellent portable option or a temporary option. Please note they can expand in heat if left outdoors for too long.

The tops of the loopless carpet tiles are laid with a durable carpeting that is bonded to a cushioned foam base, resulting in a product that will stand up to foot traffic from dog and trainer. They can easily be placed without using adhesive, they are non-absorbent, and they are designed to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria!

They are also odor proof, making them ideal for the training dock that could otherwise smell like wet dog.

Floor Mats for Ramps

Some facilities use the same surface for the ramp as they do the dog. But here are a couple of products that may work better for the ramp to provide additional traction and drainage.

Consider the rubber ring mat to provide traction. The Heronrib Matting is another option which provides excellent drainage, is slip-resistant and doesn't get as hot as rubber can.

Greatmats - For the Best Flooring for Dock Jumping Dogs

Whether one of the options listed will suit your needs and preferences, or, whether you want to explore other flooring options available at Greatmats that would offer dogs and trainers safety and comfort, there really are numerous types of flooring to choose from, from decking tiles and stall mats to additional turf options and slip resistant tile options.


Regardless of the type of floor you select, it’s important to find one that will keep your training space attractive, safe, clean, and comfortable. Think about other aspects of a floor that are important to you - the ease of installation, cost, material, and comfort, and one of the Greatmats’ knowledgeable customer service representatives will be able to assist you with choosing the product that best suits your preferences.