Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Dogs

PawTracks may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Have dog, will sail: Top dog breeds for boating

Vera Lawlor
By

For boating enthusiasts, a day spent on the water is a great escape from life’s stresses. There’s nothing like the feeling of a cool breeze on your face as you skim across the water on a wide-open lake. Boating is a wonderful activity that can be enjoyed by all of the family and that often includes the dog. Many dogs were bred to be on or around water and are happy to spend hours cruising with their families.

What is the best dog to have on a boat?

There are many things you need to take into consideration when choosing a boating dog. For example, if space is limited, it makes sense to choose a small dog as a cruising companion. However, on bigger boats, it can be so much fun to watch a powerful dog such as a golden retriever leap into a lake to cool off on a summer day. No matter your fur baby’s size, be sure he can swim before you venture out together aboard a boat.

Recommended Videos

A dog’s temperament also plays an important role when choosing a boating buddy. The happiest dogs will be calm and obedient ones who enjoy the water, love being with the family, and adapt easily to different situations.

Related
Golden retriever on a boat with a woman.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

What are the best sea dogs?

Whether boating on a lake or sailing on the ocean, the best canine companions are those who are comfortable in and around the water. The breeds that typically enjoy boating adventures most include:

Large dogs

1. Golden retrievers

  • Originally bred to hunt and retrieve waterfowl, goldens are comfortable around water.
  • Goldens love swimming and the challenge may be keeping them out of the water.

2. Labrador retriever

  • Labradors are friendly, outgoing dogs who don’t like to be left out of family adventures.
  • Bred to hunt waterfowl, Labs are natural swimmers.

Medium-sized dogs

1. American water spaniel

  • The AKC refers to this breed as outdoorsy athletes who love to swim.
  • Spaniels were bred to retrieve on land or in water, making them fun boating companions.

2. Schipperke

  • These dogs were bred to hunt rats on canal barges so they are at home on a boat.
  • Schipperkes are adaptable, curious, and confident.

Small dogs

1. Parson Russell terrier

  • These terriers are feisty and fearless and adapt well to different environments.
  • Parson Russells are energetic and can easily hop on and off a boat.

2. Yorkshire terrier

  • Feisty and adventurous, most Yorkies love to swim.
  • Yorkies are loyal and loving, making them great sailing companions.

Do dogs like being on boats?

Dogs who love the water and spending time with their families are usually excited to be included on boating adventures. Following are tips to help keep your dog safe and comfortable when out on the water.

  • Dogs should always wear a properly fitted and brightly colored canine life jacket on boating trips.
  • Invest in a dog-friendly boat ramp to make it easier for large dogs getting on and off the boat.
  • Pack a pet first-aid kit and include ointment for scrapes or cuts and dog-safe sunscreen.
  • Be sure your dog has access to a shaded area on the boat.
  • Bring along fresh water and a collapsible bowl to keep your dog hydrated.
  • Consider a cooling vest to help keep your dog comfortable on sunny days.
  • Don’t forget to bring extra towels for drying off the dog after swimming.
  • Schedule shore stops for bathroom breaks. When this isn’t possible, use pee pads or potty grass for onboard potty time.
  • Provide an anti-slip mat in a designated area of the boat where your dog can lie down. Teach a dog to go to his place when launching the boat or speeding across the water says, dog trainer Cathy Madson in a Preventive Vet article.
  • Madson also recommends having a plan in case your dog falls off the boat. It should include cutting off the engine, calling the dog from a designated spot on the boat, and lifting him to safety. The routine should be practiced often.
Jack russell terrier enjoying a boat ride.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Finally, if your dog is new to boating, acclimate your pup slowly to the experience. Introduce your dog to the boat on land if possible. Small dogs can be carried onto the boat while it’s easier for larger dogs to learn to use a ramp when boarding. The first boating trip should be short and confined to calm waters. Some dogs may experience motion sickness early on; symptoms can be relieved with medication. Once your dog is comfortable with short trips you can head out on longer boating adventures confident that you and your buddy will both enjoy the experience.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Vera Lawlor
Vera Lawlor
Contributor
Vera was the pet columnist for 201 Family magazine and has contributed pet and animal welfare articles to Bone-A-Fide Mutts…
Why is my dog drooling? Here’s when to be concerned about sudden or excessive dog salivation
This is why your dog slobbers all over you and themselves
A drooling Irish Setter looks to the side

Although St. Bernards, Mastiffs, and several other large breeds are known for their tendency to drool, it may be quite a shock if your usually drool-free pup suddenly starts to salivate. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place if you find yourself asking, "Why is my dog drooling?"
We’ve looked into many causes of excessive and sudden salivation, from the easy fixes to the more concerning problems. Most likely, drooling is nothing to worry about, but it never hurts to take a more careful look — especially if your pup is behaving oddly. Here’s everything you’ll want to know about canine salivation.

Why is my dog drooling and is sudden or excessive drooling a cause for concern?
Though drooling has many harmless causes, which we'll cover later in this article, you may want to keep a closer eye on your pet if you notice sudden salivation — especially if it’s a large amount.
Nausea and stomachaches are common causes of sudden drooling for dogs, although they will be temporary. If you think about it, many humans experience the very same thing! You may also notice vomiting or lethargy if your pet has ingested something they’re not supposed to, so don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your best buddy’s wellbeing.
On a more urgent note, dogs may also salivate if a foreign object becomes lodged anywhere in the mouth or throat. This can become a dangerous situation if the object blocks their airways, so you should waste no time in getting your fur baby to your closest veterinarian’s office if this could be the case.
Excessive, sudden drooling can also occur when a dog is overheated. Ashely Gallagher, DVM, explains that although salivation can act as a way of cooling off, just like panting, dogs don’t usually resort to this technique unless they are having trouble regulating their temperature through panting alone.
One last cause of sudden drooling is an upper respiratory infection. An illness of the nose, throat, or sinuses is more likely for pups who have been in group settings, such as shelters or kennels, but any dog can catch one, according to Amy Flowers, DVM. Luckily, your veterinarian will be able to guide you toward the best treatment for your furry friend. In most cases, it's a quick fix!

Read more
Gentle giants: 6 big dog breeds that make great family pets
Family dogs: Large dog breeds perfect for families with children
A Bernese mountain dog stands in the middle of a wooded trail

Large dogs can be intimidating to some, but the truth is that many of them are as sweet as can be -- especially with children! Although it may sound surprising, we've all heard the term "gentle giant" used to describe large dog breeds like Great Danes and Saint Bernards. It should come as no surprise that they can be great with kids with a reputation like that, but they're not the only family dogs out there!

These five big dog breeds make wonderful pets for anyone with kids. They have a history of being patient and gentle with children, and they all respond well to positive reinforcement training. With the right amount of attention and love, any of these dogs can be your child's best friend.

Read more
5 surefire ways to keep your dog off your bed and get a good night’s sleep
Dog sleeping in the bed? Here are some ways to avoid that behavior
Big dog lying on bed

One of the most lovable things about dogs is their attachment to you, their pet parent. They want to be wherever you are — no ifs, ands, or buts. Although you, of course, adore spending time with your four-legged friend, there are times when you might want your space — for instance, when it's time to go to sleep.

Dogs don't always understand these boundaries at first, but it is possible to train them to sleep in their crate, a dog bed, or anywhere else you prefer that's not your sleeping spot. With these five tips and tricks, you can learn how to keep your dog off your bed and in their own in no time.

Read more