One of the most common questions I am asked is, what is the best breed of dog to have on a boat? Having met hundreds of different kinds of dogs boating all over the world I have come to believe that the best type of dog is one who fits in with your lifestyle, your temperament and your commitment to ensuring their comfort and safety aboard.
Understanding breeds is helpful with your decision making and so I will present a new breed each week.
It is important to keep in mind that there are always exceptions to the rule because just like you and I, your furry four-legged crew member is a unique individual.
Let’s begin!
Just as Ringo Starr, Winston Churchill and Ferry Porsche, I love these wiry haired teddy bear lookalikes.
The Airedale was originally bred In Aire Valley Scotland to run alongside the hunting hounds.
In World War I, this tall, sturdy and courageous canine was trained to be a messenger on the front line as well as carry water, food and medical supplies between trenches.
In the 1920’s the Airedale Terrier was the most popular breed of dog in The United States.
How would they enjoy a boating lifestyle?
Exercise
This dog needs walking twice a day. They are energetic and known to become excitable if they don’t expel some of their energy. I would encourage the owner of an Airedale Terrier to ensure they are anchored and able to get to shore morning and night.
Companionship
These beautiful dogs love human attention and they are affection sponges. They love to be loved. Due to these traits, this breed is not for someone who wants to leave Fido on the boat alone regularly.
Shedding
To keep shedding at bay the Airedale needs regular brushing otherwise their wiry fur will happily find it’s own way to release and that will be on your clothes, sofa and bed.
Trainable
As hunters they are known to be independent and somewhat stubborn but they are intelligent and want to please their owner who they love so much. That is however until something speedy captures their attention and then, they off. Make sure you have excellent recall training mastered before letting your Airedale off the lead.
Would they be content on a boat?
I have met one sailing Airedale whose owner made this gorgeous dogs exercise his priority. They are an active retired couple who are at a stage in their lives where they are content to sail from marina to marina or dog friendly anchorage so they can take their furry crew member ashore for long walks. This is important for the energetic Airedale who needs the physical and mental stimulation to be a content doggie.
Like most dogs, the Airedale Terrier is just happy to be wherever you are. They are extremely adaptable to change as long as you are there with them. You have the most loyal companion in these magnificent terriers.
If you are interested to have an Airedale Terrier as your furry crew member, I recommend you speak to someone who knows the breed well. A great place to start is the Airedale Terrier Club of Scotland, the heart of where the breed began.
Perhaps you have an Airedale Terrier onboard? We would love to hear about your life together.
Fair winds and an abundance of doggie love,
Tanya
