Is the beach life calling you, and do you want a full-of-life furry companion with you? Whether you live in a West Coast region or want to go on a beach camping trip, you must be wondering whether you should take your dog along.
The warm, bright, and laid-back lifestyle of coastal regions makes for a vacation worth remembering. And if you’re moving to somewhere with a beach nearby, picnics every now and then are going to be impossible to say no to.
There are many dogs that can live comfortably in a coastal region and provide you with fabulous company for beach trips. Our review is all about helping you find your next furry beach buddy.
9 Dog Breeds Ideal for Beach Camping
1. Labrador Retriever
Americans’ favorite dogs (as stated by the AKC) are among the most common choices of canines for people who love outdoor activities. Labrador Retrievers were originally bred and used as retrieving gun dogs; now they’re known as one of the most loyal and affectionate pets.
Labs keep their humans entertained with their energetic and fun-loving nature. They are quite adaptable and the beach life is right up their alley their due to their love for water. Labs are highly intelligent and hardy dogs that give even the most active dog owners a run for their money.
Labrador Retrievers love activities like dog sports, playing fetch, and dock diving, so there will be plenty to keep them happy on the beach. Keep your charming pups properly hydrated if it’s hotter than usual. They have a short, thick coat that keeps them from getting sunburns.
2. Vizsla
Vizlas are outdoor dogs born to cherish the vast skies. They can keep up with you no matter where you decide to roam. This dog breed is fabulous for activities like hiking, picnics, and beach camping trips.
With their proud Hungarian origin, Vizlas bring a unique blend of hunting and retrieving talents, as per WebMD. And they weren’t limited to the dry lands; retrieving waterfowl has also been their specialty. So, swimming is a huge “yes”. They’re tough dogs, but if it’s a hot day on the beach, taking a little splash will help them cool down.
With proper training, Vizslas stay cooperative and well-behaved on the beach. They don’t enjoy the cold weather very much, so taking them on a beach trip in summer is going to be their wish come true.
No matter what breed your dog is, it’s always a good idea to carry a first aid kit on any kind of trip, in case of injury.
3. American Water Spaniel
American Water Spaniels are made for a life near water bodies. They love to get their thick coats wet at any chance they get, and love some outdoor fun with their pet parents.
These water dogs are one of the most popular breeds used for water rescue missions. These pups have wiry, thick fur that saves them from the elements and helps them dry. If they’re on the beach, their boundless energy will keep them on the move.
These bouncy canines might try to chase waves, so watch them if they’re off leash. Their coats might accumulate sand as they go crazy playing on the beach. Stay ready to bathe them later.
4. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The hint is in the name of this breed! Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are gun dogs with a history of being fishermen’s companions. From pulling nets to retrieving waterfowl and rescuing fishermen, these canines have a lot under their belts.
These high-energy dogs make great outdoor companions due to their hardy nature. These medium-sized pups have a coat that’s water-resistant and insulates from cold.
They’re the best dogs to take along if your coast camping is scheduled in winter months, as they do better in cold climates than some other breeds. These canines are great companions for people living in rural areas.
5. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
If you’re taking your dog to the beach with you, surely it’s not to have them do taxes. You want a laughter-filled and vibrant outdoor adventure with your pup. When it comes to dogs that love playing fetch, we can vouch for Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers.
These small dogs are playful and eager to please, with impressive energy levels for their size. With their beautiful, thick crimson coat, these dogs are a vision to look at while you relax with your feet in the sand.
They love to swim; from taking a splash in the swimming pool to enjoying water bodies outdoors, they can’t say no to water. Tollers are highly intelligent pups that respond well to training. They can be socialized into being cool with human interaction, as well as getting along with other dogs.
6. Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to accompany fishermen as working dogs, Portuguese water dogs are great dogs for a coastal lifestyle. If your next adventure is camping by the sea, this pup can offer you loving and dedicated company.
Made for an active lifestyle, these dogs are well-suited for people who love hiking and camping trips. The only catch is, they’re quite high-maintenance and need daily exercise to keep them from getting destructive. You won’t get to bury your face in a book on a camping trip; give your pup the due attention.
7. Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels instantly get noticed due to their wiry, curly, thick coat. Their water repellent coat makes them excellent in water-based activities. They’re great camping companions for winter months, though they adapt well to warmer temperatures too.
These Irish dogs make amazing beach dogs due to their love for water and the outdoors. These sporting dogs are great for country living and have high energy. Outdoor exercise is splendid for them, so find a dog park for your pup.
They’re highly trainable pups if given some positive reinforcement. Mental stimulation activities are also great for them. You’re going to need a well-trained dog if you don’t want to go crazy on the beach trying to control your pet.
8. Newfoundland
If you don’t mind handling a big dog on your beach vacation, Newfoundland can be a fascinating choice. These large dogs are gentle and patient in nature and have been used in water rescues.
With their huge lung capacity and webbed feet, Newfies make amazing swimmers. They have a thick, oily coat that helps them deal with cold waters.
They’re easygoing and playful dogs; you won’t have to worry much about them getting into arguments with other dogs on the beach.
9. Border Collie
Border collies are Scottish herding dogs that will happily accompany you to your coastal tour. Their energetic and affectionate nature will keep the beach moments full of life and memories worth cherishing.
This herding breed has a strong prey drive; if they haven’t been trained well, they can get fixated on small animals like cats. But they are also intelligent dogs and understand the cues and instructions well if you’ve trained them from an early age.
Conclusion
When it comes to dogs, good for coastal living or beach camping, certain breeds are more suitable than others. While this list was whipped up to help you find your furry friend for your next outdoor adventure by the sea, the temperament and health needs of individual dogs also matter.
Some other amazing beach dogs are: Australian Cattle Dog, Cairn Terrier, Siberian Husky, and Golden Retriever.
