Episodes > 201 > Paws Button

Alex Boylan's Tips for Boating with your Dog

Dogs and water seem to go hand and hand...but not all
pooches were bred for life on the water. We have some
tips on how to make your pet more comfortable and safe!

Considering a vast majority of Earth is covered in water and well over half the people in the world have pets, it stands to reason at some point you are going to want to take your dog out on a boat. Before you load up and lead man's best friend down to the dock, there are several things you need to consider to keep your pet safe and your day enjoyable.

1. THE INEXPERIENCED BOATING DOG

• If you've never brought your dog out on a boat, don't assume they will enjoy boating. Like people, boating isn't for everyone and your dog just might not care for the boat at all.
• Dogs often prefer still and stable surfaces, so a day or so before you plan on taking your dog boating, allow them to get acquainted with the boat while it is still on the trailer or docked. Your next step is to crank the engine since it may be an unfamiliar sound to your dog.
• Make your first outing on the water a short one just to allow your pet to get acclimated to boat movement. Just like people, it is possible for dogs to get seasick.

2. LIFE JACKETS FOR DOGS

• Believe it or not, personal flotation devices (PFDs) are made just for dogs and may be purchased all the major marine vendors.
• Make sure the PFD fits securely and allow your dog to practice swimming while wearing it.
• If your dog has never worn a PFD they may be resistant to it at first. Give them time to get acquainted with it before actually getting on the boat...a good idea is when you show your dog the boat the first time put the PFD on them so they learn to relate the two.

3. FRESH DRINKING WATER

• Always have enough fresh drinking water available for your dog. Canines lose fair amounts of body fluid when they pant, so be sure to keep them hydrated.
• While moving and bouncing boats may not be the most practical place for a dog bowl, an alternative is to allow your dog to drink out of a sports bottle. They are less messy and you can squirt water right into their mouth.

4. SUN AND HEAT

• Excessive sun exposure can cause heat problems for animals. Just as with humans, they include sunstroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Providing a shaded area for your pet is a good idea. Again, give them plenty of water.
• Let your dog take a dip in the water to cool them down if necessary.
• Boat surfaces, such as fiberglass, can get extremely hot in the sun. Dogs absorb heat through the pads of their feet, so be sure to protect them.
• Did you know there is K9 sunscreen. Dogs can actually get a SUNBURN...Especially dogs will short light hair and pink skin. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before getting on the boat, use pet specific sunscreen of at least SPF 15, and don't forget the ears and nose.

5. RELIEVING THEIR BLADDER

• If your boat surface allows, try to train your dog to go to the bathroom in a specific spot. This eliminates stepping in surprises and you can easily wipe it clean.
• Obviously, if your boat flooring is carpet the first suggestion isn't ideal. If this is the case, be sure to allow your dog to go ashore so they can do their business. Don't forget to pick up behind your dog and properly dispose of the waste products.

HERE’S THE POOP

When you think its time to introduce your puppy to water, don't force the issue. Never throw a dog into the water or push him out of a boat. This is NEVER the way to get him to love the water!

One of the most effective methods of introducing a puppy to water is to bring along an older, water-loving dog that they know, as a demonstration tool. It could be your other dog, a friend's, a playmate, or simply another neighborhood dog they know. Puppies will generally follow the leads of their elders, and will be reassured to see that the strange, wet stuff doesn't seem to hurt their friends.

In the absence of an older dog you will do the trick. Wade out into the water yourself. Chances are your pup will want to follow you. Use a favorite toy and throw it parallel to the shore once he is in the water up to his belly. Don't throw the object out into deep water the first time. Let him get used to the feel of the water, and the water should never be below 50 degrees C the first time.
The absolute most important thing to avoid, is a bad experience when introducing your puppy to water for the first time.