Top 8 Dog Breeds for Boating

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Introduction

Whether you are going fishing or just pleasure cruising, choosing the right dog as your boating buddy can make or break your adventure! While size definitely matters depending on the type of boat you are using, you will also need to think about temperament, energy level, and swimming skills. Some breeds are happier in the water than they are on land, and could adapt well to a boating situation, while others may get nervous, need to move around too much, or even get sick. Sticking with breeds comfortable with the water can make your choice easier. Here are the top eight dog breeds recommended for boating to help you find your furry first mate!

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is the number one dog choice on almost every list including being the number one dog breed in America. They were originally called St. John’s Water Dogs because they helped the local fishermen and they still love to help. These pawtastic fur babies enjoy doing anything as long as they can do it with you.

Shipperke

The Schipperke is a small dog that is very intelligent and loves to do anything that you are doing. Training is simple no matter what you want them to learn, and they are furfectly happy in a boat, water, yard, or house. These canine kids get along with everyone too, including cats.

Portuguese Water Dog

With water dog in their name, you know this breed will make a good furst mate. They not only like to hang out with you in a boat on the water, but they also tend to jump in the water for a swim whenever they can. With a waterproof coat and webbed feet, they're built for the water.
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American Water Spaniel

Another breed with a waterproof coat and webbed feet, the American Water Spaniel is a pawesome choice for you if you like to spend time on a boat. They’re known for their ability to jump in and out of a small boat without even rocking it, and they will even help you catch some fish. 

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

As a retriever, the Chesapeake Bay is thought to be bred from Water Spaniels and Water Dogs, so they are made for the water. Their coat is waterproof and oily, and they’re intelligent and quick to learn anything you want to teach them. In addition, they are pawfect at retrieving waterfowl.

Chesador

Mixing the Chesapeake Bay Retriever with the Labrador Retriever is a pawfect blend for boating in any capacity. They are both water-loving dogs who are also great family pets and have the ability to learn fast. Their loyalty is well-known, and they aim to please their humans all the time.

Poodle

The Poodle was originally a water dog that was used in hunting before they were discovered to have so many other talents. They enjoy being wherever their humans are, get along with everyone, they’re smarter than most other dogs, and have the patience of a saint. These poochies are furfect for any activity.

Newfoundland

This big furtastic furball was bred in Canada as a water dog who helped the Canadian fishermen catch the ones that got away. They were also used in water rescues. They can save a drowning victim from the rough seas without a problem, and their waterproof coat and webbed feet make swimming a breeze.