Legendary Surfing Dog Sugar Dies at 16

The first canine inducted into the Surfer's Hall of Fame passed away after a battle with cancer.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:53am

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Sugar The Surfing Dog, a 16-year-old rescue dog from Huntington Beach, California who was the first canine inducted into the Surfer's Hall of Fame, has died after battling cancer. In addition to her surfing prowess, Sugar spent her days outside the water comforting veterans as a dedicated therapy dog.

Why it matters

Sugar's passing marks the end of an era for the iconic Huntington Beach surf culture, where she had become a beloved local celebrity and inspiration for dog owners and surf enthusiasts alike. Her dual roles as both an accomplished surfer and therapy animal made her a unique and cherished figure.

The details

Sugar was a five-time dog surfing champion who spent over a decade riding the waves at Huntington Beach. In addition to her surfing accomplishments, she was also a dedicated therapy dog, spending her days outside the water comforting veterans. Sugar passed away on Monday after a battle with cancer at the age of 16.

  • Sugar died on Monday, March 31, 2026.

The players

Sugar The Surfing Dog

A 16-year-old rescue dog from Huntington Beach, California who was the first canine inducted into the Surfer's Hall of Fame and a five-time dog surfing champion.

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The takeaway

Sugar's legacy as a pioneering surfing dog and beloved therapy animal will continue to inspire the Huntington Beach community and dog owners everywhere who aspire for their pets to live such full and meaningful lives.