I have a standard poodle names Lambchop, Chopper for short. Puudles are
water dogs to begin with and he has been on our boat since he was an itty
bitty puppy. He thinks the aft cabin is his. Poodles are the second
smartest dog (right behind border collies). I can't stand dumb dogs. Yes,
he was the right choice for us. No, he wouldn't have been the right choice
for anyone. There is no dog that fits every persons abilities and needs
when it comes to dogs. Seeing that I was a dog groomer and trainer, I have
no problem with the massive upkeep cosmetically that a standard poodle
takes. And I enjoy grooming him. The fact that he does not shed is an
excellent qualifier for a boat and since he hasn't got a double coat, he
dries fast when wet. He is also imposing enough looking that he would deter
someone from boarding...a shaved muzzle sets off all those teeth
well....People should get a dog they can handle..one that will not frustrate
them if it doesn't behave to their specifications. Nothing worse than
someone who owns a terrier wishing their dog didn't bark. Terriers for the
most part bark. It is part of their nature. As far as space goes, poodles
make great couch potatoes if they have to but alos are great at
"self-exercising". Chopper has a basket of toys that he regularly takes
out, throws around, and chases if no one has the time to play with him at
that moment. He is also walked religiously when we're at the boat to make
sure he doesn't get antsy....he also loves to go for dinghy rides...sits in
the bow with his ears waving in the wind (I row fast to get that
effect...)...
"jlrogers" wrote in message
t...
The right dog will fill a void you may not even know you have. The right
dog will provide a level of safety, especially for children, that is
priceless.

What is the right dog for a sailor? Not an easy question to answer.
Sailors, and everyone else, need to choose their dog based on the family
character, lifestyle, and circumstances, just like choosing a boat

What kind of dog do you have? Does he/she like to sail? Is your home
space
big enough for her/him? Did you choose your dog wisely?