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Del Mar Today
By the People, for the People
Beloved Surfing Dog Sugar Dies at 16 After Cancer Battle
The five-time World Dog Surfing Champion and internet sensation passed away in her owner's arms.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:21am
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Sugar the surfing dog, a beloved internet sensation and five-time World Dog Surfing Champion, has passed away at the age of 16 after a battle with cancer. Sugar was adopted by owner Ryan Rustan at six months old and went on to win numerous titles, including Surf City Surf Dog and the Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge. In addition to her surfing prowess, Sugar also worked as a therapy dog, bringing smiles to the faces of children and veterans. Rustan shared the heartbreaking news of Sugar's passing on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and love over the years.
Why it matters
Sugar the surfing dog was a beloved figure who inspired many with her athletic abilities and dedication to helping others. Her passing marks the end of an era for the sport of dog surfing, which she helped popularize and elevate. Sugar's story also highlights the power of the human-animal bond and how pets can positively impact our lives, even in the face of adversity.
The details
Sugar the surfing dog was born on the streets of Oakland in 2011 and was later adopted by Ryan Rustan when she was six months old. Rustan credits Sugar with helping him overcome mental health and addiction issues. Together, they became a fixture in the surfing community, with Sugar winning 19 titles, including the World Dog Surf Championship five times. In addition to surfing, Sugar also worked as a therapy dog, bringing joy to children and veterans. Earlier this year, Sugar was diagnosed with cancer and underwent surgery to remove a tumor. She surfed for the last time on March 9, 2026, surrounded by a crowd of adoring fans.
- Sugar the surfing dog was born on June 14, 2011.
- Sugar was adopted by Ryan Rustan when she was six months old.
- Sugar won her first World Dog Surf Championship in 2015.
- Sugar was inducted into the Surfer's World of Fame in December 2024.
- Sugar passed away on March 30, 2026, at the age of 16.
The players
Sugar
A five-time World Dog Surfing Champion and beloved internet sensation who passed away at the age of 16 after a battle with cancer.
Ryan Rustan
Sugar's owner, who credits the surfing dog with helping him overcome mental health and addiction issues. Rustan was by Sugar's side when she passed away.
What they’re saying
“I never would have imagined in my wildest dreams that [Sugar] is exactly why I'd turn my life around, right here. This is just so special.”
— Ryan Rustan, Sugar's owner
“She absolutely loved you guys!! she lived to put smiles on faces, volunteer, to send it !! to change dog surfing forever !!”
— Ryan Rustan, Sugar's owner
What’s next
Ryan Rustan plans to hold a memorial service for Sugar the surfing dog in the coming weeks, where fans can gather to celebrate her life and legacy.
The takeaway
Sugar the surfing dog's passing marks the end of an era for the sport of dog surfing, which she helped popularize and elevate. Her story serves as a testament to the power of the human-animal bond and how pets can positively impact our lives, even in the face of adversity.
