• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • My Account
  • Cart

Sailing Britican

Helping You to Become a Confident Sailing Cruiser - Sailing Experiences & Resources

TwitterYoutubeFacebookLinkedinPinterestInstagram
  • Home
  • Sailing Experience
    • Case Studies
    • Britican Experience Videos
    • Book an Experience on Britican
  • Shop
    • All Our Guides
    • Boat Safety COURSE & Manual
    • Checklists For Sailors Guide
    • Make Money Being A Cruiser
    • Sailboat Buying Guide For Cruisers
    • VHF Radio Checklists & Templates
    • Our Sailing T-shirts Store
  • Britican Videos
    • Sailing Channel Videos 2022
    • Sailing Channel Videos 2021
  • Blog
    • Most Recent Articles & Videos
    • Life Aboard
      • Life With COVID-19
      • Hurricane Season
      • Galley
        • Recipes
      • Kids On A Boat
      • Getting Started
      • Making An Income
      • Marina Life
      • Racing Your Home
      • The Boating Lifestyle
    • How To
      • Buying A Boat
      • CopperCoat
      • Electrical Systems
      • Kit
      • Maintenance
      • Major Upgrades
      • Passage Planning
      • Sailing, Maneuvering & Mooring
      • Organization & Cleaning
      • Safety
    • Our Journey
    • Destinations
      • Atlantic Crossing
      • Bahamas
      • Bermuda
      • Mediterranean
      • Caribbean Sailing
      • Charleston
      • Florida
  • Free Resources
  • More…
    • Our Story – From The Beginning
    • Best Sailing Quotes
    • The Crew
    • Sailing Q & A
    • The Yacht
    • Disclaimer
    • Contacting Us
    • Terms & conditions
    • Our Disclaimer
    • Imprint
    • Privacy Statement (CA)
    • Cookie Policy (CA)

Pets On Board – Sailing With A Dog On Board

July 15, 2017 5 Comments

Share398
Pin220
Tweet7
Share3
Reddit
Email
628 Shares
Sailing with a dog

Here’s my daughter on s/v La Vida. Dakota (pictured) and Calibre (a Pug) are boat dogs.

Are dog’s good sailors? Do many liveaboard cruisers go sailing with a dog on board? What’s it like sailing with man’s best friend? These are all questions I get asked often. Many singles, couples, and families are interested in taking a year out to go sailing or hitting the sea indefinitely, but what about Fido?

In our 20,000 nautical miles of travel around the Mediterranean, across the Atlantic Ocean, up the east coast of America and over to Bermuda we’ve seen every type of dog on every type of sailing vessel. We’ve seen tiny Shiatsu’s and massive Great Danes afloat (yes – a Great Dane on a boat!).

Sadly, we don’t have a dog on board. My daughter and I would love a pet but hubby say’s ‘no’. We’re still working on him but in the meantime, Meg from K9 of Mine sent me a fantastic infographic (located below) about boat safety for dogs. I asked if I could reprint the graphic and ask her some questions.

Sailing with a dog on board – Q&A

Kim: Thank you Meg for helping to answer some questions about dogs on board. I love the infographic you sent me.

Meg: Thanks for the feedback Kim. And thank you for providing me with the opportunity to share our information with your readers. Obviously dogs adore being out on the open water with their favorite humans, but there are a fair number of safety considerations to keep in mind when boating with a pooch. That’s why we created the Dog Boating Safety Tips Infographic – we want to help keep all canine crew safe this summer!

Kim: Safety for all life is the number one importance on our boat. So speaking about safety, do dogs really need to wear a lifejacket?

Meg: Yes, all dogs need life jackets when they go out to sea!

Ocean water is choppy and rougher than your local pond, and even strong swimmers could get pulled under.

While dog life jackets are no brainers for owners of snub-nosed breeds, who are usually poor swimmers and have a difficult time keeping their heads above the water line, they’re essential for strong swimmers too.

Even H20-obsessed breeds like Labradors may have trouble swimming in rough, open waters and could easily get pulled under.

Don’t risk it – make sure your dog is equipped with a canine PFD (Personal Flotation Device) before leaving the dock!

Kim: So, what does a dog owner do if their dog falls in the water?

Meg: It’s pretty key to make a game plan on what you’ll do if your dog falls in the water before it happens so I’m pleased you asked this question, Kim.

Since your dog is (hopefully) equipped with his doggy PFD, there’s no immediate risk of drowning, but of course you’ll need to rescue your dog as soon as possible.

It’s key that you assign one individual to keep an eye on the dog’s spot in the water, while the other person navigates the boat. Remember that dog’s don’t have the ability to wave their arms to help signal their location to you. A dog’s small, bobbing head can be easy to lose track of in the waves, so have the person tasked with spotting your dog point their finger out in order to have visuals on your dog at all times.

Then navigate your boat close to the dog, cut the engine, and yell to your dog to get them to swim over.

Kim: Yes – it’s the same procedure for humans. One member of crew keeps pointing at the person who fell overboard while all the other crewmembers work together to get the boat close enough for a pickup. People, dogs and anything that goes overboard can be lost in seconds.

Meg – this might sound like a silly question, but one of our biggest issues is keeping out of the sun. I was wondering if dogs get sun burns?

Meg: Yes, dogs can get sunburns, just like humans!

While fair-skinned humans know to load on the sunscreen during sunny days, we often forget that dogs need sun protection too.

Dogs with very thin or very light colored fur are especially at risk for sun burns. If you can detect your dog’s pink skin under their fur, they definitely need sun protection.

Luckily, there are a good number of sunscreens specifically designed for dogs. They come in different application forms too – with wipes and sprays being very popular. Choose the method that works best for you, and get your pup protected!

Kim: Wow! I never knew that there was such a s think as Dog Sunscreen! And I think it’s also very important to note that having a bimini or some sort of area on the boat that’s shaded is very important. We often see people on vacation sitting in the direct sunlight sailing around and think it’s nuts. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to plan trips to land when the sun is not at its hottest.

Now Meg, I’ve heard that it’s a dangerous time for dogs when docking a boat. What’s that all about?

Meg: Docking can be a dangerous time for dogs and their owners, as dogs get very excited and may attempt to jump on or off the boat in the middle of the docking process.

This can be quite dangerous since a dog can potentially fall between the boat and the dock – a recipe for disaster. Docking is when most boating accidents with dogs occur, so always keep an eye on your pooch during this time!

We actually recommend teaching your dog the “on boat” and “off boat” commands to keep your four-footer safe.

Kim: I love the “on boat” and “off boat” commands. What a great idea. Friends of ours usually close their dogs down in the saloon while they’re docking. It’s often such a stressful procedure – adding anything that can distract the skipper and crewmembers is not a good idea.

I have one last question for you Meg. Where do dogs go to the bathroom on the boat?

Meg: Dog bathroom time can definitely be more complicated when out to sea.

Dogs that are housetrained will refuse to simply go on the deck. Most dogs are taught at a very young age that going potty anywhere that’s not outside makes them a bad dog – and they hate the thought of that.

When I volunteered at a dog shelter, I learned that some dogs are so housebroken that they won’t go potty even in the outdoor portion of their kennel. Some dogs will hold in their pee for so long that they’ll actually injure themselves.

Of course you don’t want your pooch to hurt himself, so you’ll want to create an appropriate potty space on deck.

Most owners opt for astroturf, plastic puppy pads, or even real grass potty pads. The best material will be something familiar to your dog. Try practicing with the boating potty pads now and then before you set out to sea so that your dog has time to get accustomed to them.

Even with bathroom pads, some dogs may refuse to relieve themselves on anything expect dry land. In this case, be prepared to make frequent visits to the shoreline so your dog can relieve himself in peace!

Kim: Awesome information Meg. I really appreciate you taking the time to provide us with all this great information. If our readers have any further questions about canines aboard how can they find you?

Meg: Visit our website at K9 of Mine and feel free to contact me through the Contact Page.

Kim: Or…if you want to leave a comment’s about sailing with a dog below please do so. If I can’t answer you I’ll bring the question to Meg on your behalf.

Dog Boating Safety - Sailing With A Dog

Dog Boating Safety – Sailing With A Dog

Share398
Pin220
Tweet7
Share3
Reddit
Email
628 Shares

Tags: Dog Safety, Dogs, Dogs on board, Pets, Sailing with dogs Categories: Kids On A Boat

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Mike says

    April 1, 2018 at 5:16 am

    Just wondering what other people do with regards to there protocols for abandoning ship with a dog on the ocean, as a large dogs claws will shred a raft in seconds. Even a small sized dog not in a crate which creates its own difficulties will shred rafts so what solutions have others come up with, for the unthinkable abandon ship call.

    Reply
    • Kim Brown says

      April 10, 2018 at 2:48 pm

      Wow…that’s a very good question. I never thought of that. Anyone out there ever hear of a solution?!

      Reply
  2. Chad French says

    March 2, 2019 at 6:43 pm

    Kim, hope you still get these replies but I just wanted to say hi and thanks for the article, as we have a Great Dane on our 51 foot Aleutian Ketch and we leave for Baja Ha Ha in November. We’ve lived on board with her for the last 8 months and we’re all adapting well (two kids and me and my wife) + Great Dane Quincy. She’s featured every Sunday on the website and we’re all kind of learning as we go- I read your articles and appreciate your website and posts- Thanks – Chad

    Reply
    • Kim Brown says

      March 3, 2019 at 12:52 pm

      Chad, Great Dane’s are my absolute favorite dogs. You better watch out…if we sail by I might just have to take Quincy (or at least borrow her for a bit). Big smiles, Kim

      Reply

Leave a Comment Cancel

Recipe Rating




sidebar

Blog Sidebar

Get Sailing Experience

https://youtu.be/RAo1eDHBsDY

Book Your Sailing Experience

Click here for: Full details, pricing, and application form here.

Must-Have Guides

Checklists For Sailors

VHF Radio Checklists For Sailors

Sailboat Buying Guide For Cruisers

A Sailing Cruiser's Guide To Making Money

Britican Experience

Sailboat Liveaboard Sailing Experiences

Free Guides

50 Suggested Checklists

Becoming a sailing cruiser

10 Steps To Buying A Sailboat

Electrical System Audit

Boat Safety Checklist

Support Us On Patreon

Become a Patron!

Recent Comments

  • Leggett Family on Checklists for Sailors – Digital
  • Kim Brown on Britican is For Sale
  • John on Britican is For Sale
  • Kim Brown on Don’t miss Anguilla when sailing the Leeward Islands
  • Kim Brown on Why Choose a Heavy Displacement Sailboat?

This Might Be Of Interest…

Recent Posts

  • Tips and Tricks for Learning to Sail Blue Water May 23, 2023
  • Top 10 Things to Consider in Cruising Sailboats for Sale May 17, 2023
  • Britican is For Sale May 17, 2023
  • Sailing Pre-Passage Checks May 3, 2023
  • A Boat Checklist: The Key to Successful Cruising May 1, 2023

Top Rated Products

  • A Sailing Cruiser's Guide To Making Money A Sailing Cruisers Guide To Making Money - Digital
    Rated 5.00 out of 5
    $27.00
  • VHF Radio Checklists For Sailors - Digital
    Rated 4.80 out of 5
    $20.00
  • Sailboat Buying Guide For Cruisers - Digital
    Rated 4.80 out of 5
    $27.00
  • Cruiser's Guide To Making Money & Sailboat Buying Guide Bundle Offer - Digital $54.00 $45.00
  • Surviving Hurricanes Sailboat Checklist - Digital $20.00

Have You Read My Book?

Changing Lifestyles Book Thumb "Changing Lifestyles - Trading in the Rat Race for a Sail Around The World" (Click the picture for more information)

Nautical Gift Store

Instagram

sailingbritican

⛵️We offer sailing lifestyle experiences, guides, and courses🪸
⚓️Discover fun & adventure now-learn how to become a sailing cruiser🏝
👇Visit Our Links👇

Sailing Lifestyle Experiences
Grenada, located at the bottom of the Caribbean Is Grenada, located at the bottom of the Caribbean Island chain, is the best place to spend hurricane season. The chances of a hurricane are low and you can sail the full season to a variety of beautiful locations. #sailingexperience #sailinglife #grenada
Sunday lunch is a British tradition. It consists o Sunday lunch is a British tradition. It consists of a roast of beef, lamb, pork, or chicken, loads of vegetables, a Yorkshire pudding, and delicious gravy. 

If you're in Grenada this hurricane season and want to try it out, visit Taffy's Bar in Woburn Bay. 

It's at the end of the dinghy dock across from Clark's Court marina/boatyard. Find details for Taffy's on Facebook. 

#sailinglife #bestsundaylunch #grenada
Before we purchased our boat we had so many questi Before we purchased our boat we had so many questions. Many of our questions impacted what type of boat we'd get, how much money we'd spend, and what we should expect. This FREE guide is what we wished we had when we started. Get your copy now!

FREE GUIDE: https://smpl.is/72je4

#sailingexperience #sailinglife #sailing
Sometimes we have sundowners on our boat, and othe Sometimes we have sundowners on our boat, and other times we take the dinghy to the beach and look at our boat. Either way, nothing beats celebrating another day living the boating lifestyle!

This picture is taken from the beach bar on Green Island in Antigua. If you visit Antigua, Green Island is a must-visit anchorage.

#sailingexperience #boatlife #boatlifestyle
Our new Reckmann Furler has broke! Thank goodness Our new Reckmann Furler has broke! Thank goodness I’m in paradise. Otherwise, I might just lose my mind! #sailingexperience #sailinglife #reallifestories
By gaining knowledge of safety procedures, navigat By gaining knowledge of safety procedures, navigation techniques, weather patterns, and emergency protocols, you can mitigate risks and make informed decisions on the water. 

Understanding the specific equipment requirements and best practices for blue water sailing ensures that you are adequately equipped to handle the unique challenges that arise during long-distance voyages.

Read this article to get tips and tricks on learning to sail blue water: https://smpl.is/70z5i

#bluewatersailing #sailingtips #sailing #sailingexperience
One theory proposes that "bottoms up" may have eme One theory proposes that "bottoms up" may have emerged from nautical or seafaring origins. In sailing, the term "bottom" refers to the lowest part of a ship or boat, usually submerged in the water. 

"Bottoms up" could have been a way for sailors to indicate that they had reached a safe depth where the bottom of the ship was not in danger of hitting the seabed. This usage could have been adopted into everyday language and transformed into a drinking toast.

The phrase has become a common part of drinking culture and is widely used today to signify finishing a drink in a single gulp.

#sailinglife #etymology #sailingexperience
Petite St Vincent is part of St Vincent & the Gren Petite St Vincent is part of St Vincent & the Grenadines; HOWEVER, if you're in Grenada, you're allowed to visit the island without booking out of Grenada. During hurricane season, it's a great place to visit. 

The anchorage has spectacular blue water, and the beach is white-littered with beautiful palm trees. It's a definite cruiser must-see destination. 

The island is private, so you can't walk on land, but you can enjoy the beach and visit the bar (when open). Warning - the prices are high! You can, however, see an incredible sunset looking out past your anchored boat. It is well worth the crazy cost of a G&T! 

To visit the bar, take your dinghy over to the dingy dock, and the bar is on the left. 

#sailingexperience #destinations #sailinglifestyle
Today we left the south coast of Grenada and saile Today we left the south coast of Grenada and sailed north to a deserted island called Ronde Island. Aside from some goats and one other sailboat, we're the only people here. 

I like the variety that sailing offers. The last few nights have been busy, social, and engaging at Le Phare Bleu, a lovely boutique marina on the south. It will be quiet, peaceful, and relaxing tonight at Ronde Island. 

It's our new guests' first full day out on Britican! We'll have to celebrate that 😉

#sailingexperience #sailinglifestyle #learntosail
Where is our number 1 favorite spot in the Caribbe Where is our number 1 favorite spot in the Caribbean? We love getting a mooring ball off Sandy Island, Carriacou, or anchoring and enjoying dinner at the Paradise Beach Club. 

#ParadiseBeachClub #sandyisland #Carriacou #anchorage #mooringball
Check out our latest video on YouTube: https://smp Check out our latest video on YouTube: https://smpl.is/72j58

Find out what a retired pilot thinks of trading in wings for sails.

#sailingexperience #sailinglifestyle #boatlife
The knot commonly used to tie a fender onto the si The knot commonly used to tie a fender onto the side of a boat to protect it from other boats and docks is called a "round turn and two half hitches." It is a simple and effective knot that provides a secure attachment for the fender. 

👉Follow us for more tips about being a confident sailing cruiser!

Here's how you tie a fender knot:

1. Start by passing the line's working end (rope) around a secure point on the boat, such as a cleat or railing.

2. Take the line's working end and make a loop around the standing part (the part of the line connected to the fender).

3. Pass the line's working end through the loop you just created.

4. Bring the line's working end around and make another loop around the standing part, similar to the first loop.

5. Pass the working end of the line through the second loop.

6. Tighten the knot by simultaneously pulling on the working end and the standing part.

This knot will create a secure attachment for the fender, allowing it to protect the boat's side from impacts with other boats or docks. 

You can adjust the fender's height and position for optimal protection according to your specific docking situation.
Follow us for more tips about being a confident sailing cruiser. 
#sailingexperience #boatknots #sailinglifestyle
May we always remember and honor our fallen heroes May we always remember and honor our fallen heroes. 🇺🇸 #MemorialDay #HonorAndRemember
As you gain insights into the intricacies of offsh As you gain insights into the intricacies of offshore sailing, you develop a deeper understanding of boat handling, sail trim, and maneuvering techniques in varying conditions. 

This knowledge enables you to navigate challenging situations confidently and efficiently, enhancing your overall sailing experience and allowing you to undertake longer and more adventurous voyages on the open ocean.

Get some of our tips and tricks for learning about sailing in blue water. Read this article: https://smpl.is/70z5b

#sailingtips #sailing #boating #oceansailing #sailboat #learningsailing #navigation #sailingexperience
Five reasons to buy my guide, Checklists for Sailo Five reasons to buy my guide, Checklists for Sailors:

1. Comprehensive Resource:  The book covers various aspects of sailing, including pre-departure checks, safety procedures, equipment maintenance, navigation, emergency protocols, and more. By following these checklists, sailors can ensure they have covered all necessary steps and improve their overall preparedness and efficiency on the water.

2. Safety Enhancement: Sailing involves inherent risks, and safety should always be a top priority. "Checklists for Sailors" offers a valuable tool to enhance safety measures. The book includes detailed checklists for conducting safety inspections, preparing for adverse weather conditions, handling emergencies, and performing routine maintenance tasks. By diligently following these checklists, sailors can minimize risks and navigate the waters with greater confidence and peace of mind.

3. Time-Saving and Organizational Benefits: The guide provides sailors with ready-made checklists that streamline their sailing routines and save time. By having a structured set of tasks, sailors can efficiently manage their time and ensure they don't overlook critical steps. The checklists also help organize and systematize various aspects of sailing, making it easier to keep track of important tasks and ensure nothing is missed.

4. Suitable for All Experience Levels: Whether someone is a novice sailor or an experienced seafarer, "Checklists for Sailors" caters to a wide range of experience levels. For beginners, the book offers a comprehensive guide and reference tool to navigate the complexities of sailing. At the same time, experienced sailors can benefit from the checklists as a valuable reminder and reference for essential procedures and protocols.

5. Confidence Building: This guide empowers sailors and builds their confidence by providing a structured and comprehensive set of checklists. The checklists provide a guide that instills a sense of preparedness and assurance. Following well-organized checklists and having a systematic approach to sailing tasks can boost sailors' confidence levels, allowing them to enjoy their time on the water with greater peace of mind.
Here's one of my favorite things about living on a Here's one of my favorite things about living on a boat (It's Kim here). I adore having my 5 pm glass of wine and watching the world go by in our cockpit. 

I see turtles popping up for air, new boaters arriving at the bay, birds feeding, and kids still swimming and laughing in the water. 

On land, I don't stop and appreciate my surroundings like I do on the water. There are trees, birds, and people on land, but it's not the same. 

Looking at the sea causes bliss! It's as simple as that.

Happy Friday!

#sailingexperience #sailinglife #boatlife
True freedom is not simply a claim or a right but True freedom is not simply a claim or a right but something that must be actively practiced and embraced through our experiences on the open sea, self-reliance, and commitment to environmental stewardship.

How often do you practice true freedom?

#sailingexperience #quotes #boatlife
The saying "Plans are written in sand at low tide" The saying "Plans are written in sand at low tide" is a metaphorical expression that conveys the idea that plans and intentions are often transient and subject to change. It suggests that plans, like words written in sand, can easily be washed away or altered by unforeseen circumstances or changing conditions.

Just as the tides can rise and erase what is written in the sand, life can bring unexpected events, obstacles, or opportunities that can disrupt or redirect our plans. It highlights the notion that despite our best intentions and meticulous planning, external factors can arise that require us to adapt or abandon our initial course of action.

This saying serves as a reminder to remain flexible, open-minded, and resilient in the face of uncertainty. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared to adjust our plans and embrace change when necessary, recognizing that life is dynamic and unpredictable.

Nothing teaches you more about flexibility, open-mindedness, and resilience than being a sailor!

#sailingexperience #sailinglife #sailingquote
"Sometimes there is no next time, no time-outs, no "Sometimes there is no next time, no time-outs, no second chances. Sometimes it’s now or never." Alan Bennett

#nowornever #quoteoftheday #lifelessons
Britican is FOR SALE! Would you like to take a tou Britican is FOR SALE! Would you like to take a tour and see if she's for you?

Oyster 56' Sailboat: https://smpl.is/7165r

#boatforsale #sailboatforsale #bluewatercruiser
Load More Follow on Instagram

Pinterest

Footer

Contact Sailing Britican

We help people find adventure and freedom by becoming sailing cruisers. If you would like to get in touch or having any questions, call or email us!
WhatsApp: +1 910 403 3067 Email: info@SailingBritican.com

Sailing Guides Payment Info

We accept PayPal and all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB Diners Club, credit and debit cards. Transactions are performed via a SSL server to ensure your privacy.

Credit-Cards

Britican Menu

  • Home
  • My Account
  • Cart

Sailing On Social Media

TwitterYoutubeFacebookLinkedinPinterestInstagram

Site Developed by Gary Fox

Sailing Britican, All Rights Reserved

Manage Cookie Consent
We use cookies to optimize our website and our service.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage vendors Read more about these purposes
Preferences
{title} {title} {title}
Manage Cookie Consent
We use cookies to optimize our website and our service.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage vendors Read more about these purposes
Preferences
{title} {title} {title}