My "Lil Guy", a 7 lb Maltese, has been going to the boat since he was 12 weeks old. He always loved it! I trained him to use the "potty pads" at home, in the boat and in the RV, so I never had to take him to a beach or dog run to take care of nature.
He isn't a water dog, but I've taught him to be careful on the dock and he cannot get out of the boat unless I pick him up. A small dog is a big advantage on a boat. The boat has a full Delta "camper" canvas and I always kept it snapped and zipped closed [screens in the summer]. That provided shade and I used fans onboard during the summer. He would always pick the most comfortable spot.....
From the beginning I corrected him each and every time he started to bark. He soon learned that barking wasn't allowed at the boat, even if I was gone. I would come and go as I pleased and he accepted that just fine. If I went to eat, he stayed on board. If I was visiting friends, he usually went with me; he loves visiting people and other dogs!
Maltese do not shed which is a huge advantage. He is a great companion who is happy all the time. Expose your dog to the boat, people and dogs early and often and it will be natural to your dog. If you are relaxed and happy, your dog will be too! If you [or your admiral] are anxious, nervous or worried, so will be your dog.
Relax and have a great time!!!!
He isn't a water dog, but I've taught him to be careful on the dock and he cannot get out of the boat unless I pick him up. A small dog is a big advantage on a boat. The boat has a full Delta "camper" canvas and I always kept it snapped and zipped closed [screens in the summer]. That provided shade and I used fans onboard during the summer. He would always pick the most comfortable spot.....
From the beginning I corrected him each and every time he started to bark. He soon learned that barking wasn't allowed at the boat, even if I was gone. I would come and go as I pleased and he accepted that just fine. If I went to eat, he stayed on board. If I was visiting friends, he usually went with me; he loves visiting people and other dogs!
Maltese do not shed which is a huge advantage. He is a great companion who is happy all the time. Expose your dog to the boat, people and dogs early and often and it will be natural to your dog. If you are relaxed and happy, your dog will be too! If you [or your admiral] are anxious, nervous or worried, so will be your dog.
Relax and have a great time!!!!
