What To Bring For Dogs On A Boat

Nothing beats a warm summer day out on the water with your beloved dog by your side.

Boating can be a great activity for you and your pet, but before you get out in the water, check out our essential boat dog packing list.

What To Bring For Dogs On A Boat
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Related Posts

Let’s start with the basics.

First Aid Kit
Leash and Harness
Pet ID Tag/Microchip
Doggie Life Jacket
Water
Food
Non-slip bowls
Sunscreen
Bath Mat, Towel, or Bed
Astroturf or Potty Pads
Poop Bags
Doggie Ramp or Stairs
Toys and Treats

What To Bring For Dogs On A Boat - The Essential Boat Dog Packing List

Whether you’re taking your dog on the boat for the first time, or you’re a seasoned boat-dog-captain, below is more detail on each item to help you plan a fun and safe trip.

Note: Not everything on this list is required; for example, if you are staying overnight on a boat you will obviously need more supplies and items than a couple-hour boat ride. However, making sure your dog has access to fresh water, shade, and food is essential.

First Aid Kit – in case of emergency, pack some anti-nausea medication, something to induce vomiting, and something in case of an allergic reaction. It is always wise to bring gauze and alcohol in case of any accidents.

Leash and Harness – We suggest using a harness in place of a collar while boating because it provides a safe way to grab and lift your dog out of the water if needed.

Pet ID Tag/Microchip– be sure you have a way to track and or identify your pet in case of separation

Doggie Life Jacket – life jackets are a must when boating with your dog. Always play it safe when on the water.

Water – dogs don’t perspire like we do. Make sure they stay continuously hydrated. It is not recommended that dogs drink lake or seawater- distilled water is best.

Food– plan meals accordingly with the length of your trip

Non-slip bowls – waters can get rough. A non-slip, non-flip bowl is a clear no-brainer for us. Seas can get choppy but your pup won’t notice with these awesome bowls that stay put no matter what!

Sunscreen– dogs need UV protection too! Keep those coats sunburn free this summer with dog-safe sunscreens

Bath Mat, Towel, or Bed– give your dog something to stand on in case the deck is too hot for his footsies. These can also give your dog traction to grip during rough seas.

Umbrella or Other Shade Coverage– Overheating is dangerous and can be deadly if your pup is exposed to the heat for too long. Make sure they have adequate access to shade

Astroturf or Potty Pads– if you’re planning on a long excursion, your dog will have to relieve himself at some point. Bring astroturf, potty pads, or a piece of carpet as a designated spot for your dog to do his duty.

Poop Bags– if you plan on an island day or a beach walk bring something to bag your solids and dispose of them when you get back to shore.

Doggie Ramp or Stairs- a safe option for getting your dog on and off the boat or boat ramps.

Treats – positive reinforcement to keep fido put and reward him for being the goodest boy on his boat ride

Toys– don’t forget the fun. Keep your pup entertained on the boat or on the island with his favorite squishy

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a dog have to have a life jacket on a boat?

While technically not required by law, all dogs should wear a properly fitted, doggie life jacket, any time they are on the water.

Any dog, even water-loving breeds, can become disoriented, fatigued, or drown despite how strong of a swimmer you believe them to be.

Doggie life jackets generally serve two purposes: first, as a flotation aid, and second, as a “doggie overboard” lifting device.

Look for life jackets fitted with handles, straps, and a leash loop on the back, that will make retrieving your pet safer and easier for all involved.

West Highland dog on towel on bow of boat

Can Dogs Wear Human Life Jackets?

Dogs should not wear human life jackets. They are designed with humans in mind and dogs should not wear them.

You should find a snug-fitting dog life jacket for your dog’s size, weight, and body structure. Consider comfort and how your dog is able to float or swim comfortably with the jacket.

Did you know that pet life jackets do not come with buoyancy ratings, as do human life jackets (the Coast Guard requires it).

What Size Life Vest Does My Dog Need?

Although size guidelines come with most doggie life jackets, we strongly recommend that you bring your dog in for a proper “fitting.” Pet shops and marine supply stores encourage owners to bring in their dogs to physically try on vests prior to purchase.

We advise paying close attention to where straps, handles, buckles, or other accessories come into contact with the dog’s body. Wrong placement can cause the dog major discomfort and they may try to chew or remove the vest.

As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to get a tight-fitting jacket for your pup. You should be able to place two fingers between the jacket and your pup when you have found the correct size. For proper sizing measure the following below:

Pet Body Length-Measure from the base of your pet’s neck to the base of their tail. Note: the jacket may not completely cover long-bodied dogs i.e corgis, dachshunds, etc. This should not be an issue as the main girth of the dog will be supported.

Pet Body Girth– measure the widest part of their body, typically in line with their ribcage. The life jacket should be form-fitting, just like a human life jacket, to provide proper flotation.

Pet Neck Girth– measure the widest part of their neck. The jacket should be form-fitting but should never choke or limit a dog’s breathing.

Do Dogs Need Sunscreen?

Dogs, just like people, are prone to sunburn and to other risks associated with sun exposure. It is important to take safety measures to lower your dog’s chances of dangerous sun exposure.

This includes determining a dog sunscreen that’s formulated with your best friend in mind.

Can You Use Human Sunscreen On Dogs?

According to researchers, the ingredients found in human sunscreen are extremely dangerous to use on your pets! Avoid using sunscreen formulated for humans on your dog at all costs!

Be especially careful not to use any sunscreen on your dog that contains zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).

These ingredients if ingested, are toxic to dogs. Dogs can often lick their skin and accidentally consume the sunscreen.

What SPF Should I Use on My Dog?

Owners are advised to look for a waterproof, non-scented, dog sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.

Can Dogs Drink Lake, River, Or Salt Water?

Although your dog may want to drink lake, river, or ocean water, it is not recommended. Bringing your dog’s own water supply is always your safest bet. Natural water sources can contain algae and parasites that are harmful to your dog. Saltwater can cause your dog vomiting and diarrhea.

Dogs do not cool down in quite the same way as people do, so they will also need adequate hydration on a hot summer day. Be sure to bring enough water to last for your entire boating trip.

Are Cooling Vests Worth It?

Cooling vests work by removing your pet’s excess body heat through evaporation. It appears the success of these devices is purely anecdotal, but some owners do swear by them.

It is important to note that if your dog is going to wear a cooling vest, they require a lot of attention throughout a scorching day. These vests only work as long as you can keep them wet—otherwise, it is just like making your dog wear a hot, heavy jacket.

Other items like your boat’s bimini top, an umbrella, or a spray bottle are great items to help cool your furry first mate down.

As the first line of defense against the heat, owners should know the best haircut for their pets to keep their coats clean and detangled so they can properly insulate and keep cool during those warm summer months.

A Jack Russel in sunglasses on a beach chair smiling

Boat Ramp Or Stairs For Larger dogs?

Portable ramps and stairs are designed to assist larger dogs in climbing aboard boats without any human assistance. They both ensure easy access for dogs who may be too heavy for owners to carry or that have health conditions or mobility issues.

When searching for either device, we recommend looking for something that is durable and will work well with many different types and styles of boat ramps. You should also take note of the material used.

It should be waterproof and able to withstand heat. Also, check the weight limit of your device and keep in mind your dog’s weight before purchasing.

Deciding between a ramp or stairs is purely up to you and your pet’s needs and abilities.

Final Thoughts

Although boating with your four-legged friend boating may require some extra planning and forethought, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy in your dog’s eyes the first time he rides on the water.

We owe it to our best friends to keep them healthy, happy, and safe on the water this summer.

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