When at sea we often miss our friends and, man’s best friend is no exception. But over the history of time, many dogs have ventured to sea with their owners.
I recently taught a couple on their own boat with Scooby Sky. She was a great crew on their stunning Gaff. Thank you Helen and Nick for letting me use Scooby Sky here, as our shining example.
A little history on pooches at sea!
Since people began building boats, they have created special places aboard for animals. Sometimes these animals provided food such as eggs, milk, and fresh meat. Yet ancient and modern seafarers also brought animals aboard as friends and helpers.
Over two thousand years ago, fishers in the Mediterranean Sea bred dogs to help them fish. These ancient dogs probably looked like poodles and Portuguese water dogs, powerful swimming, curly-haired canines that also went to sea. In the days before radios and cell phones, some sailors and fishers also used these dogs to carry messages between boats and to the shore.
Another well know sea dog is the Newfoundland. This hardy breed developed along the Atlantic Coast of Newfoundland in Canada. Fishers used them to pull nets on the beach and to tow heavy carts. Newfoundlands are famous for their loyalty and lifesaving ability and are often used in search and rescue missions.
One Maritime activity in which pets have shined is war. One of the most famous in the U.S. is Sinbad, a Coast Guard mascot that served in World War II. Sinbad was a mixed-breed dog that served aboard USCG Campbell, a 327-foot vessel that defended American convoys. During his seven years aboard Campbell, Sinbad was as awarded six medals, including the American Defense Service Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
My own boy Bailey loves helping me with the rigging and ropes.
Which breeds are the best for boats?
Naturally, breeds specifically bred for the water are best. These breeds are generally medium-sized, have water-resistant coats and webbing between their toes. However many other breeds of dogs are intrepid enough to learn the ways of the sea. There are some things to consider, however, before you bring any dog out on the boat:
Make sure you have the proper safety devices. Even if your dog is an excellent swimmer, he can get tired quickly, or might suffer an injury falling overboard.
All dogs need time to get their sea legs. Even water-bred dogs need time to adjust to a rolling and pitching deck. They can also get seasick, like any person.
The sun and the heat can be more intense on the open water. Dogs get overheated more quickly than people, and on the water this is especially true. If it is a particularly hot day, consider leaving him home, or make provisions to cool him off periodically.
Dogs with short legs, like dachshunds, or those with low body fat, such as Dobermans and boxers, will have trouble swimming. Also keep in mind the age of your dog; older dogs will tire more easily.
But, the term "Sea Dogs" actually has nothing to do with our canine friends!
In sailor slang, a salty dog is a person with years of experience and proven seamanship skills.
The term Sea Dogs originated as an informal name, bestowed upon English privateers who were authorised by Queen Elizabeth I to raid England's enemies, even during times of peace. Carrying letters of marque issued by the English Crown, the Sea Dogs frequently attacked both enemy shipping at sea and enemy outposts on land. Members of the Sea Dogs included Sir John Hawkins and Sir Francis Drake.
Best woofs,
Ross
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