Embarking on maritime adventures with your furry first mate transforms the open waters into a shared playground of joy and companionship. However, ensuring the well-being and comfort of your canine companion on board requires thoughtful consideration and the right gear. In this guide, we delve into the essential boat accessories for dogs, navigating the seas of safety, comfort, and a tail-wagging good time. From waterproof beanbags that become floating havens to nautical leashes that turn walks into shared adventures, join us as we explore the accessories that elevate every seafaring experience into a memorable voyage for both you and your four-legged sailor.
Ensuring the comfort and safety of your canine companion on board is essential. Here are some important boat accessories for dogs:
Dog Life Jacket
Just like humans, dogs need life jackets for safety on the water. Look for a well-fitted, buoyant vest to keep your dog afloat. Our favorite is Kurgo Surf N Turf, where a versatile flotation layer designed to optimize energy conservation during swims, ensuring extended playtime in the water. Crafted with 400D and Ripstop material, the streamlined design guarantees comfort, accommodating your dog’s active movements effortlessly. Featuring a neoprene liner, adjustable chest and belly straps, and three Nifco quick release buckles, the Surf ‘n Turf prioritizes both functionality and style.
Stand out on the water with its high-contrast color and reflective accents, providing visibility even in low-light conditions. The thoughtful design includes two transverse handles strategically positioned for easy extraction from any aquatic or other predicament. Leash attachment is a breeze with two metal D-rings, one of which cleverly doubles as a bottle opener for added convenience.
All that allows your dog to move effortlessly while looking chic. Cleaning is a breeze with simple spot cleaning, ensuring your dog’s water adventures are always fresh and enjoyable.
Non-Slip Matting or Pads
Boats can be slippery, especially when wet. Modern yachts often feature more accessible companionways and bathing platforms, but older vessels may pose challenges with steep steps. To ease the climb, consider a plank with rungs or add marine carpet to provide better grip. Provide a secure surface for your dog by using non-slip matting or pads in areas where they walk or rest.
When selecting new flooring for your boat, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on both the flooring and your pets during boating. Various factors, including the chosen material, your lifestyle, and your pet’s needs, should be taken into account to ensure a harmonious coexistence between your flooring choice and your furry companions.
We opted for Corinthian Marine carpets and AquaWeave™ woven-vinyl for our boat flooring. This groundbreaking material boasts impressive stain resistance, effortlessly repelling substances like red wine, mustard, and fish blood. The relatively flat surface of AquaWeave™ woven vinyl prevents sand from becoming trapped, providing a distinct advantage over traditional carpets. Whether glued down or snapped in, AquaWeave™ effortlessly sheds most pet hair, and maintenance for it aligns with addressing issues related to sand. In contrast to softer flooring materials like EVA foams, an AquaMat® featuring carpet or AquaWeave™ proves resilient against your pooch’s paws.
Travel Dog Bowls
Compact and spill-proof travel bowls are essential to keep your dog hydrated during the journey. Look for collapsible designs for easy storage. For boat journeys with your doggy, a specially designed water bowl is very important. It must withstand the challenges of choppy waters, tight turns, wake waves, and strong winds. Our top choice is the Prestige Pets Road Refresher No-Spill Slobber Stopper Water Bowl for Dogs, ensuring it remains stable and spill-free even in unpredictable conditions.
Dog Harness with a Leash
A harness with a secure leash attachment is vital to keep your dog safe and restrained while on the boat. Standard tethers or leashes can be used to secure your pet to the boat.
Potty Pads or Grass Mats
For longer journeys, consider providing a designated area for your dog to relieve itself. Potty pads or artificial grass mats can be placed on the boat for this purpose. While it’s possible to plan periodic stops to walk your dog during your boating day, it’s prudent to consider investing in a portable pet potty for your boat. Providing a designated area for your dog to relieve themselves offers a more sanitary, safe, and comfortable solution than relying solely on docking opportunities.
You can choose Artificial Grass Puppy Pee Pad for Dogs, compostable puppy pads or even Fresh Patch with Real Grass Pee
Shade or Canopy
Protect your dog from the sun by providing a shaded area. This can be achieved with a canopy or by choosing a boat with sufficient shade.
Dog-Friendly Sunscreen
Dogs are susceptible to sunburn, particularly those with light-colored fur. Safeguard exposed areas like the nose and ears by applying a dog-friendly sunscreen. One standout choice we discovered is the Warren London Dog Sunscreen Spray, offering effective sun protection.
Enriched with Natural Aloe Vera, it not only shields against the sun but also provides relief for itching skin, preventing dryness and scaliness. Suitable for all coats and breeds, whether long or short-haired, this dog sunscreen is effortlessly easy to use, ensuring your canine companion stays protected and comfortable under the sun.
Comfortable Bed or Mat
Ensuring your pup’s comfort on the boat is a top priority. To achieve this, provide them with a snug bed that combines comfort and coolness. Opt for a bed that is not only water-resistant but also easy to clean and exceptionally sturdy. While pet cots are an option, they can be prone to flipping on boats. A more reliable choice would be a bed or mat that stays in place without slipping.
We recommend the K&H Original Bolster Pet Cot for the following reasons:
Crafted from waterproof, heavy-denier fabric with a plush bolster, this outdoor dog bed ensures ultimate comfort and security for your pet.
The raised design aids in keeping pets cool during summer by promoting air circulation and prevents contact with wet or cold ground, featuring a substantial 7″ ground clearance.
Built with a robust yet lightweight metal frame and a heavy denier cover, this dog cot exhibits impressive durability, capable of holding over 200 pounds. It has undergone rigorous testing to ensure strength and reliability.
Have a first aid kit specifically designed for dogs on board, including items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications. You can make it by yourself or buy ready kit like Pet First Aid Kit
Secure Storage for Dog Food and Supplies
Safeguard your dog’s food and supplies by storing them in secure, waterproof containers to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness. Explore a range of options, from the budget-friendly 5LB Van Ness Pet Food Storage Containers to the premium choice, The GUNNER Food Crate. The latter features an ultra-durable angled nylon lid, a lockable latch with a draw-style mechanism, and elevated rubber feet. These design elements collectively enhance protection against external elements, varying temperatures, and UV light, all of which can expedite decay and heighten the risk of bacterial contamination in your dog’s food.
Boat Ramp & Ladder
If you’ve ever navigated the waters with a large breed or a hefty canine companion, the familiar struggle of hoisting 100 pounds of furry enthusiasm onto the boat deck is undoubtedly etched in your memory. The good news? There’s no need to endure back strain each time you embark or disembark from your boat. The solution lies in a canine-friendly boarding ramp, a simple yet transformative accessory that allows your pup to gracefully transition from dock to boat and back.
While many dogs relish the idea of a refreshing swim, not every breed finds aquatic endeavors a breeze. Negotiating pools, boats, or lakes can pose challenges, especially for larger or less water-inclined breeds. Enter the dog boat ramp—a game-changer for both you and your four-legged friend when venturing into waters.
Check our top 5 best dog ramps, that guide you in selecting the perfect ramp for your water-loving pup.
Remember, each dog is unique, so tailor the accessories to your pet’s specific needs and preferences for a safe and enjoyable boating experience.