Boating With Your Dog 101

Looking to take your furry friend out onto the water in your new boat? Before you make plans to bring your dog along on your latest boating adventure, be sure to read our guide below. In it, we’ve outlined a number of important things you’ll need to do before you board to ensure both you and your dog have a good boating experience.

Start Slow 

The best way to ensure your dog has a good time on the open water is to ensure they associate your boat with positive feelings and experiences. When first introducing your dog to your boat, allow them to explore as much as they like while you’re docked—making sure to offer plenty of treats and praise as they do so. 

If your dog seems relatively relaxed after their initial introduction, you can take them for a short ride away from the dock so they can adjust to the sound and movement of the boat. However, if your dog seems a bit anxious about being in the water, it’s better to save this trip for another time, and simply offer your pup plenty of praise. 

Pet Essentials 

After a few short trips, your dog should be used to the unique feeling of being on a boat. At this point, it’s safe to take your pet on longer boating trips that may have you traveling further away from shore. When this happens, be sure to bring plenty of supplies to ensure your dog has a comfortable trip. Don’t forget to bring food and water for them, as well as a few bowls, and some cleaning supplies to clean up after your pet when they inevitably need to use the restroom. 

Still searching for the perfect boat to take you and your furry friend on your next boating open water adventure? Then stop in at 72 Marine Sales to find the perfect model for your needs! Our location here in Elberton, Georgia offers a massive selection of different makes and models for you to browse through, and we proudly serve the nearby cities of Athens and Augusta, Georgia.