The number one consideration is whether you can leave your dog without it barking incessantly and annoying other people in an anchorage. At the docks, this situation is worse, as your boat is closer to other boats. This causes the most agitation to other boaters. We have gone to dinner and seen diners being “summoned” to return to their boat. So, if your dog has separation anxiety and barks when you are gone, don’t bring the dog.

Next, does your dog get seasick, and how does it react to moving and a bit of rocking? Take some short trips and see how your dog does. If it gets sick, shivers or generally has a horrible time, consider whether it can enjoy cruising. Our vet prescribes doggie valium for our boxer on longer, rolling sea trips.

We have tried making a small bathroom area for the dog using fake grass. We even took feces from home and rubbed it on a bit to try to get the dog to use the grass. Four months later, no luck. However, we have heard of others having success with this strategy. When I was building custom boats for clients, one buyer actually had a patch of grass growing on his sundeck with an overboard drain. It worked for his German shepherd.

If your dog enjoys boating and does not bark incessantly, bring it along. You may need to walk the dog a few times a day, but it can be a lot of fun and good exercise for you.