Are you the proud owner of a boat dog? Boating with a furry first mate is an exciting and memorable experience. However, ensuring your dog's safety and comfort on the water requires some preparation.
Just like humans, dogs require special gear to stay safe, comfortable, and hydrated during their boating excursion. And whether you're heading out on a short, sunset cruise or a day-long excursion, you'll ensure you bring the right boating gear for dogs.
Here are ten boat accessories for dogs that we recommend bringing on board.
Top Tips for Taking Your Dog Boating
What Are the Best Boating Accessories for Dogs?
The best boating accessories for dogs to bring aboard include items to ensure their safety and comfort, such as:
1. Life Jacket for Dogs
Even if your dog is an excellent doggy paddler, a well-fitting canine life jacket is necessary. Strong currents, fatigue, or unexpected falls pose serious threats to any pup!
We recommend getting a doggy life jacket with a top handle (that ensures easy retrieval) in bright colors (that guarantees visibility). Adjustable straps and reflective strips add additional layers of safety!
2. Fresh Water and a Collapsible Water Bowl
Unfortunately, your pup can't drink saltwater or lake water. Therefore, you must bring plenty of fresh water and a collapsible water bowl to keep your dog hydrated. Take frequent water breaks and encourage your pup to drink whenever you do – that'll prevent them from dehydrating, which is easy to do on hot and sunny days.
3. Floating Toys
Just like you'd bring water toys for the kids, we always recommend keeping some floating dog toys on board. Not only can they provide exercise and mental stimulation, but they're great to help your dog cool off. Of course, you want to avoid toys that could sink or get lost in the water. And make sure your dog is wearing their life jacket before heading into the water.
4. Ramps or Dog-Friendly Ladders
Whenever your dog is finished playing in the water, they'll need a way to get back on the vessel. Therefore, ramps or dog-friendly ladders are essential boat accessories for dogs. Most of these ramps are portable, so you can stow them whenever they aren't in use.
5. First Aid Kit
While you should always have a human first aid kit on board, a kit tailored to pets is crucial in an accident or emergency.
Pack items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for removing splinters or ticks), styptic powder (for stopping minor bleeding), and any necessary medications your dog may need. While we hope you'll never have to use it, being prepared for cuts, scrapes, or insect bites can give you peace of mind.
Watch the video below to learn more about safely boating with your pet:
6. Dog-Friendly Sunscreen
Like humans, dogs can get sunburned (especially pups with shorter coats, lighter fur, or exposed skin). Consider investing in a dog-safe sunscreen to protect them from sun rays! Their nose, ears, and belly will be particularly vulnerable, so start there. And remember to avoid sunscreen with zinc oxide, as it's toxic to dogs.
Read Next: Sunscreen Safety Tips for Boaters
7. Waste Bags
Responsible pet ownership means cleaning up after your dog – even when you're on the water. Therefore, you'll want to bring plenty of waste bags to properly dispose of your dog's waste.
8. Dog Towels
Just like humans, dogs get wet after a swim. (And wet dog is a smell that not many enjoy.) Packing extra towels lets you dry them off before they shake water and mud all over your rig. We recommend using quick-drying, microfiber towels, as they're lightweight and easy to store.
9. Non-Slip Dog Mat
We all know boats are slippery, and sudden movements or waves can cause your furry friend to lose their balance. However, non-slip dog mats offer your dog a stable surface – reducing their risk of slipping and helping them feel more secure. Look for waterproof and easy-to-clean mats to ensure durability and convenience.
10. Dog Treats & Travel-Safe Food Container
Lastly, rewarding your pup with treats throughout the day can reinforce good behavior and keep their energy levels up. We always recommend packing dog treats in a waterproof container. And if you'll be boating through their meal time, pack enough food in an airtight, travel-friendly container.
Additional Tips for Boating with Your Dog
Now that you know about the necessary boating gear for dogs, here are some additional tips:
- Introduce your dog to the boat on dry land. Their first experience with the boat shouldn't be a weekend-long excursion. They need time to adjust to the unfamiliar environment.
- Check for any boating regulations related to pets in your area.
- Be mindful of hot surfaces like boat decks that can burn your dog's paws. Put up your bimini top, or get them a pair of protective dog shoes.
- Secure your dog in a shaded area to prevent overheating and offer frequent breaks.
