Not all dogs are cut out for the sway of a boat. While some dogs might enjoy it, others get anxious during travel and create an inconvenience not only for themselves but for their owner as well. If you’re a frequent boat traveler, choosing a breed that will stay composed during your trips is key to making the journey enjoyable for both of you.
There are certain dog breeds that are fit to take with you on ferry rides. These dogs stay calm during ferry rides and are skilled swimmers, which helps to ensure a stress-free experience during travel. These breeds are not just calm but also steady on their paws, emotionally secure, and comfortable with new environments.
The following 10 dog breeds are ready to hop aboard with you and stay cool and calm while doing it.
Dog Breeds That Stay Calm During Ferry Rides
1. Basset Hound
The Basset hound is characterized by its mournful eyes, domed head, velvety ears, and short yet powerful legs. According to PetMD, the Basset Hound was originally bred in France, and due to its low-to-the-ground stature, they are named ‘Basset’, which is French for ‘short’ or ‘low-set.
Laid Back Traveler
The Basset Hound is not exactly a high-energy dog and has a slow-paced lifestyle. With their low energy and go-with-the-flow attitude, they are less likely to get restless in confined ferry spaces. They also do not require intense pre-ride exercise to settle down.
Excellent Adaptability
The Basset Hound can adapt itself to any place, and a boat is no different. It handles new environments with surprising grace and is rarely startled by unfamiliar noises or motion. These qualities make this dog ideal for you if you’re a dog owner wanting to take your dog with you everywhere.
2. Boerboel
The Boerboel is also called the ‘South African Mastiff.’ According to the AKC, the breed was originally bred in Africa to serve the purpose of being a guard dog for protecting livestock and property.
Steady Temperament
The Boerboel stays extremely calm under pressure. It is trained to handle motion and noise like a seasoned traveler. Moreover, it is known to have a grounding presence for owners and other pets.
Adaptability for Boats and Ferries
The muscular build of the Boerboel prevents slipping or imbalance on a ferry deck. It is also quite convenient to leash-walk a Boerboel even in bustling conditions.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This calm and small dog is characterized by its doe eyes, long, feathered ears, and silky coat. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has royal roots because King Charles II was always seen in the company of these dogs.
People-Oriented
This dog loves to cuddle with its owner and sit in soft travel carriers. It stays happy and content as long as it is close to you at all times.
Travel-Friendly Size
This dog is small enough to carry around in tight ferry quarters. It does not have the habit of barking or panicking in public spaces. In case of an unexpected panic episode, these dogs can be distracted easily using treats or affection.
4. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound was originally bred to rid the Irish countryside of wolves in the 15th century. These dogs are commonly labelled as ‘Gentle Giants’ due to their big and warm hearts, despite their massive size.
Highly Intelligent
Irish Wolfhounds learn quickly, and training them becomes a breeze. Their high level of intelligence, paired with their eagerness to please, makes them even easier to train.
Emotionally Reserved
Irish Wolfhounds are not easily startled. Their calm demeanor helps other pets stay relaxed. They do not panic in motion-heavy environments and stand solidly even on slightly moving ferry floors.
5. Pekingese
The Pekingese is characterized by its small size, squished face, and long fur. However, do not let the small size of a Pekingese fool you. Despite their small size, these dogs have a big heart and an even bigger ability to stay chill.
Also known as ‘Sleeve Dogs,’ the Pekingese were from China, and from there they reached England and America through many influential people, which resulted in a huge demand for this breed and in its popularity.
Lap Dogs
The Pekingese will never get tired of lying in your lap or even being carried around in a tote. As long as it is assured that you, the owner, are not far away from it, this dog is on cloud nine. This makes the Pekingese perfect for owners who want on carry-on dog.
Unbothered by Chaos
The Pekingese rarely reacts dramatically or aggressively to noise or shifting movement. It is often indifferent to commotion or activity. Moreover, it does not bark at strangers or other animals passing by.
Last but not least, the calm and warm eyes and soft fur of this dog invite people to cuddle it, and so it becomes a source of comfort on board. This makes it an ideal dog to take with you on a ferry ride.
6. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard was originally bred to assist travelers across the Great St. Bernard pass in the Alps back in the 11th century. Despite its large size, the Saint Bernard is ranked among the calmest dog breeds.
Emotionally Grounded
The Saint Bernard was originally bred for rescue missions, which makes it hardwired to stay calm and composed during emergencies. It is incredibly gentle around kids, elders, and strangers alike. Moreover, this dog is immensely patient even in long lines or during delays.
Naturally Gentle Giant
In crowded spaces, this dog moves slowly and cautiously in order to avoid accidents due to its large size. It does not have the habit of getting jumpy on wet or constantly shifting floors of ferries. For people who feel anxious on a ferry, having this dog aboard can be a huge source of comfort.
7. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is famous for its history of working at monasteries in Tibet as watchdogs. The Tibetan Spaniel possesses an almost cat-like ability to stay balanced and poised.
Highly Alert without being Anxious
The Tibetan Spaniel observes its surroundings without overreacting. It enjoys being near windows or open areas without having any kind of fear or anxiety.
Agility and Small Size
This dog has the ability to stay sure-footed even on shaky ground or slippery decks. It is happy to sit in its owner’s lap or on cushions for as long as possible. The small size of the Tibetan Spaniel makes it easier to lift and carry it on ferries.
8. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are characterized by their unique coat made of three different textures. This dog originated hundreds of years ago in Bergamo near Milan, where it was used to help their handlers move safely across the Alps.
Weather-Tolerant
The coat of this sheepdog protects it from wind, sea spray, and chill. It is not spooked by crowds or outdoor elements and moves at a calculated pace in all public spaces.
Low Grooming Needs
The thick and matted coat of this dog has a low shedding rate, and it does not require much grooming.
9. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is famous for its calm temperament and for guarding flocks with quiet confidence.
Built for Steadiness
The Great Pyrenees is naturally stable due to its low center of gravity. It walks calmly even on rocky or moving surfaces. This dog does not jump or bolt suddenly.
Quiet Confidence
This dog breed does not seek unnecessary drama. Instead, it enjoys peace and becomes reactive aggressively only when the situation calls for it.
10. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is known for having an appearance similar to teddy bears. These small dogs are good travelers and have a low shedding rate. According to WebMD, the Bichon Frise originated around the Mediterranean, and it was the favorite dog breed of the royalty during the Renaissance.
Cheerful Disposition
You will not have to worry about a Bichon Frise having anxiety during travel, thanks to its happy-go-lucky nature. It rarely feels anxious and thrives in new settings as long as it’s close to its owner.
Portable
This small companion covered in fur is compact enough to sit comfortably in your lap or fit in a carrier. Since it is lightweight, boarding and disembarking with it becomes stress-free too.
Conclusion
Calm dogs make for calm ferry rides, and choosing the right dog breed to become your travel partner changes everything. With the right pup by your side, your journey will become both joyful and safe.
Some other dog breeds that you might consider while looking for a ferry-friendly dog breed are Portuguese Water Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Newfoundlands.
