Sugar the Surfing Dog, First Canine in Surfer’s Hall of Fame, Dies

Huntington Beach,

CA -

Sugar, the famed surfing dog and first canine inducted into the Surfer’s Hall of Fame, has died at 16 after battling cancer.

The five-time dog surfing world champion passed away Monday “in her daddy’s arms,” according to a social media post. A former stray, Sugar rose to international fame for her wave-riding skills, often dazzling crowds as she surfed solo or with owner Ryan Rustan.

Honored in 2024 with a place in Huntington Beach’s Surfer’s Hall of Fame, Sugar was also known for her work as a therapy dog, comforting veterans and spreading joy in her community.

Tributes describe her as a local legend whose impact extended far beyond the shoreline.