Tips for Taking Your Dog Boating

There are few things greater than a day spent on the water except, perhaps, the love of your loyal pup. Pets are part of the family, so of course you want to include your pet in family fun on the water. However, taking your dog on the boat requires some unique preparations and precautions.  

If you’re looking to take your dog boating this summer, there are a few things to consider to ensure it’s a fun and safe experience for your whole family. Here are our best tips for taking your dog out for a day on the water…

Get the Right Equipment

Keeping enough life jackets onboard for your passengers is a requirement before you set sail, but did you know you should keep a life vest on board for your pet too? While most dogs are natural swimmers and enjoy the water (except maybe when it comes time for a bath), conditions on the open water can be unpredictable. Choppy or cold water, fatigue, disorientation, aging pets, and other variables can quickly become dangerous-even for the best four-legged swimmers.

You can find doggie life jackets at most pet stores. Here are some helpful tips for purchasing a doggy life vest:

• Make sure the life jacket fits snuggly.
• It should have handles to make retrieving your dog from the water easier and safer.
• Check buckles and straps are in comfortable positions.
• It should be a bright color so that your pet is visible in the water.

If you need further advice on recommended brands or proper fitting, contact your veterinarian.

Get Them Comfortable with The Water

Take it slow when it comes to getting your dog used to the water and your boat. Anxiety can become a safety issue while out on the water with your dog, so it’s best to follow a few simple tips to keep them relaxed and get them familiar with their new environment…

• Let your dog explore your boat while docked first.
• Make your first trip a short one.
• Bring plenty of your dog’s favorite toys or treats so it’s an extra special experience for your pup.
• Ask your vet about motion sickness medications you can keep on board just in case.
• Consider purchasing a ramp to help get your dog from the dock onto the boat safely.
• Understand that not all dogs enjoy swimming, so never force your dog to doggy paddle.
• If your dog likes to swim, remember to give your dock plenty of breaks to rest.

• Bring Refreshments 

Don’t encourage your dog to drink water from the lake or rivers. While we consider them “freshwater” and many dogs drink from them without issue, your pet can easily lap up microorganisms causing illness. Pets can suffer diarrhea, vomiting, and other symptoms from drinking unfiltered water, so it’s important to keep plenty of drinking water for your pet and a bowl on board.

Take a Break

It can be easy to get carried away with the fun and forget to give your pup a potty break. If you’re out on the boat for hours, be sure to dock periodically to give your dog a chance to relieve themselves so they remain comfortable and avoid accidents.

If you prefer not to dock or are unable to, consider creating a potty area on board with pads or artificial grass with the ability to dispose of any waste. Do not forget to have plenty of paper towels and cleaning products on board in case of accidents.

Keep an Eye on Your Dog

Be sure to keep a close watch on your furry friend when you’re out on the water. Some dogs-like an inexperienced puppy or water-loving dog-may be all too happy to jump overboard while the boat is moving. If you’re not keeping a close watch on your pup and they go overboard you may not realize it immediately, which could lead to a serious search-and-rescue situation.

Keep your dog on a leash when on the boat and be sure the leash is not so long that your dog can jump overboard.

Other Tips for Boating with Your Pet

Remember, it may take a few tries to get your pet accustomed to the boat and water. Practicing patience and taking time to prepare will help make it an easier, more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Some other tips to help make your boat pet friendly include:

• Puppy-proof the boat.
• Limit food and water before taking off on the boat to keep motion sickness at bay.
• Keep tackle and fishing equipment out of reach.
• Provide some shade.
• Keep a towel or piece of carpet on board to give your pup’s paws a break from the heat.
• Grab some toys and plenty of treats.
• Snag a vet-approved sunscreen for your pet.
• Create a dog overboard plan.

The Dog Days of Summer

There’s nothing more fun than including your pet in a day spent on the water. In addition to enjoying the fresh air, new sights, and scents, your dog will especially love the extra time spent with you. Following a few simple tips and working through some initial training will help your dog enjoy boating as much as you do.

Happy Boating!

The Skipper