Taking your dog canoeing may sound like asking for trouble but most dogs take right to it. By introducing your dog to it in the right way you will both have more fun and stay a lot drier. My English Setter Gus loves to go as much as we do, though her desire to go may have something to do with her hating to be left at home. Gus was introduced to boating at a young age and from the start it was pretty easy going. Several things must be taken into consideration so that your dog's maiden voyage will be smooth sailing .
Safety is a prime consideration and having a dog aboard throws a variable into the safety equation.
Kennel, down, and stay are the three most useful, particularly when getting in and out of the canoe. The kennel command gets the dog in the boat, down and stay keep the dog where you want it. Your dogs comfort is another consideration. A mat or carpet on the bottom of the boat will make your dog more comfortable and give their feet something to grip on. This will help calm the dog as well as define a space for your pet.