How to Take Your Dog Boating

Photo/NEB

If you want to take your pooch boating, follow these tips to make sure the experience is enjoyable for both of you.

Get a lifejacket.

Your dog might be a good swimmer at your local lake, but in challenging conditions like currents or rough surf, it can be a different story. Be safe and purchase a good lifejacket for your dog.

Start slow.

A new environment like a boat can be an intimidating experience for your dog. Introduce your dog to boating life slowly, first by visiting your boat but not leaving the dock, and then by taking short trips. Dogs can get seasick just like humans, and short trips will help them get used to being on the water. 

Pack lots of water.

Dogs drink a lot of water. That’s especially true if they’re on a boat under the hot sun. If you’re offshore, they’re obviously not going to drink saltwater. Even if you’re a freshwater boater, lakes are often contaminated and can have bacteria that is harmful when ingested. Be safe and carry plenty of clean water.

Have a plan to get your dog onboard.

There’s a good chance your canine will fall or jump overboard at some point. Don’t wait until that happens to figure out how to get him back onboard. Come up with a plan ahead of time. 

Bring sun protection.

Short-haired dogs get sunburns just like humans, so you may need to apply sunscreen to your dog. If you do, use unscented sunscreen so it doesn’t bother your pooch.

Be prepared for “potty issues.”

Your dog won’t be using your boat’s head (unless it’s amazingly well-trained). And dogs aren’t great at holding it when they’re outside. Figure out how to have your dog go to the bathroom. Will you make lots of stops, or will you just clean up after your dog on your boat? Your dog won’t necessarily understand the difference between being outdoors on a boat and being outdoors at a park near a fire hydrant, so be prepared to clean up messes. Also, bring bags to clean up your dog’s waste.