Ahoy & Happy Thanksgiving: A Toast to Our Salty Sea Dogs

Ahoy, shipmates — and a very Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Since this holiday is all about gratitude, family, and eating until your waistband files a formal protest, I figured this week’s blog should honor our very special members of the family… those who I’m thankful for every single day.

I’m talking about our dogs — our loyal deckhands, our four-legged lookouts, our fuzzy copilots who believe the boat belongs to them (and honestly… they’re not wrong).

If you already take your dog boating, you know how priceless that time on the water is. There’s nothing quite like the look on a dog’s face when the wind hits their ears and they realize the whole ocean is basically one giant sniff.
But if you’re new to the idea, or unsure how to get your pup ready for their maiden voyage, this one’s for you.

This isn’t the end-all, be-all guide to boating with dogs — just one salty baboon’s collection of tips to help make your trips smoother, safer, and a whole lot more fun.

Ease Them Into the Adventure

Most dogs take to the water pretty naturally. Some go full-send and try to captain the boat by hour two. Others take a little warming up — and that’s okay. First impressions matter.

For your pup’s first outing, bring along things that smell like home:

• their crate or kennel (if you’ve got the room)

• their favorite blanket

• that one toy they’ve destroyed but still carry everywhere with them.

• favorite chew

Familiar smells go a long way in helping them relax on the water.

If your dog is the anxious type, a snug vest or Thunder shirt can help them feel secure in their new floating environment. Think of it like emotional support… but in jacket form.

The Life Jacket Rule (Yes, Even for Champion Swimmers)

Even if your dog swims like a Labrador who just saw a duck, a good life jacket is non-negotiable.

But — and this is key — the boat is not the place to introduce the life jacket for the first time. That’s a one-way ticket to a stressed pup and a chaotic day.

Instead, introduce it at home days beforehand with treats, praise, and patience. Let them get used to the sound, the feel, and the vibe. Soon they’ll associate the vest with fun outings.

When choosing a vest, spring for one with:

• a proper fit

• a strong handle on top

• optional water-activated beacon

• solid, durable construction

You’ll be thankful for that handle the first time you have to hoist 70 pounds of wet enthusiasm back on deck.

Snacks, Water & Rewards

Bring extra water. Bring extra treats. Bring extra everything.
Boating is exciting, stimulating, and sometimes overwhelming for dogs — so reward them often and keep them hydrated.

A happy dog on a boat is a dog who believes boating is the greatest invention in the history of humanity… which honestly, they’re not wrong.

The Business End of the Operation

Look, we’ve all been there. You’re out on the water, the day is perfect, and then your dog gives you “the look.” You know the one.

If your boating style involves lots of quick shore stops, this won’t be a big deal. But if you’re taking long runs, staying out overnight, or cruising where land access is limited, you’ll need a plan.

Enter:

• grass pads

• absorbent pads

• carpet squares

• whatever version of the “poop deck” you choose

This starts at home. Train your dog to use the pad well before your adventure.
Pro tip: Using a little “scent encouragement” (a tiny sample from a previous potty break) teaches them this new spot is fair game.

Once they’re reliable at home, move the pad to the boat. Place it somewhere safe and easy to clean — cockpit, aft deck, or even the bow, but keep it safe. Eventually, your dog will get it and you’ll save yourself unplanned dinghy trips, shoreline scrambles, and emergency improvisation.

Every Dog Is Different — And That’s Okay

Labs, goldens, and other water-loving breeds might be hopping on the swim step before you even start the engine. Other pups may be more cautious. That’s normal.

With a bit of patience and preparation, most dogs become fantastic boat buddies. And if yours is still unsure after the first outing, don’t worry — it’ll come with time, encouragement, and lots of praise.

So Take Your Dog Boating

They love being with you, they love new adventures, and boating together builds memories you’ll treasure for years. Plus, let’s be honest — a dog on a boat just makes everything better.

So this Thanksgiving, here’s to our salty sea dogs:
the fur that fills the cabin,
the nose smudges on the windows,
the wet footprints on the deck,
and the joy they bring with every tail wag.

Happy Thanksgiving — now grab your dog, grab your life jackets, and get out there. Adventures await.

Bilge Baboon.