““Boating with Your Doodle: How to Have Fun on the Water & Keep That Coat Looking Fabulous””

Boating with Your Doodle: How to Have Fun on the Water & Keep That Coat Looking Fabulous

There’s nothing quite like a sunny day on the water—wind in your hair, salt in the air, and your favorite doodle by your side. Whether you’re headed out on a family pontoon ride or cruising along the bay in a saltwater boat, your dog deserves to enjoy the fun too. But before you pop on that life jacket and grab the treats, let’s talk safety and coat care—because fun on the water should never come at the cost of a tangled, matted mess.

Here’s your Smeraglia-approved guide to boating bliss with your doodle—filled with tips for fun, safety, and keeping that signature silky coat looking beautiful all summer long.

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1. Safety First: Boating 101 for You and Your Dog

Before we talk beauty, let’s talk boating safety—because our doodles are family, and we want every splashy adventure to end in happy tails and wagging tongues.

🌊 Must-Haves for Boating with Your Dog:
•   Dog Life Jacket: Even strong swimmers need a life vest. It offers safety during unexpected waves or fatigue and makes lifting them out of the water easier.
•   Non-Slip Deck Mat: Wet boat surfaces can be slick. Use a non-slip mat to protect joints and help your dog feel secure.
•   Hydration Station: Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl. Never allow your doodle to drink saltwater—it can make them sick.
•   Shade Source: Dogs overheat quickly. A shaded area on deck is essential, especially for dark or thick-coated pups.
•   Potty Plan: Plan bathroom breaks ashore or provide a designated potty pad if you’re out all day.

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2. Saltwater Coat Care: Protect That Teddy Bear Fluff

Saltwater, sun, and wind may be fun, but they’re tough on a doodle’s coat. If you don’t prep and protect, you may end up with tangles, dryness, and dreaded mats.

💧 Before You Boat: Spritz and Brush

Right before heading out, spray your dog’s coat with a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray. Our go-to? Show Sheen, available from Fletch & Lo (https://fletchandlo.com/). It coats the hair shaft to reduce friction, shield against salt, and prevent knots from forming.

Be sure to brush thoroughly before applying it to maximize protection.

🚿 After the Boat Ride: Rinse, Condition, Repeat

As soon as you’re off the water:
•   Rinse your doodle’s coat with fresh water—even if they didn’t swim. Salt and sand can cling to the fur.
•   Apply more conditioner spray and gently comb through to prevent mats from forming as the coat dries.

Regular brushing and post-water conditioning are the keys to maintaining that signature Smeraglia softness.

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3. The Best Part: Making Magical Memories

Once safety and coat care are handled, it’s time to focus on what matters most—making memories with your doodle.

🎉 Water Fun Ideas for Doodle Days:
•   Play floating fetch with water-safe toys
•   Try a gentle dock jump or swim session
•   Enjoy snuggles on the bow during a sunset cruise
•   Snap cute photos in a doggy life vest (we love these for social!)

⚠️ Never force your doodle to swim—some love it, some don’t. Let them decide, and always supervise closely.

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4. Shop the Essentials at Fletch & Lo

Before you head out, grab the gear that will keep your pup happy, safe, and stylish on every water adventure.

🌿 Visit Fletch & Lo (https://fletchandlo.com/) — our thoughtfully curated boutique filled with grooming tools, detangling sprays like Show Sheen, and doodle-friendly essentials we personally use and love.

🛥️ From boat to bath, we’ve got everything you need to keep your pup looking and feeling their best.

📸 And don’t forget—tag us in your adventures! We love seeing our doodle families making memories.
Share your boat day pics on Instagram: @TeddyBearGoldendoodles (https://www.instagram.com/teddybeargoldendoodles/)

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Final Thoughts: Sunshine, Saltwater, and Smeraglia Smiles

Boating with your doodle is more than just a day on the water—it’s an opportunity to bond, play, and explore together. With the right prep, you can enjoy every splash without worrying about tangles or safety.

So grab your leash, your life vest, and your detangler—and let’s make some memories that shimmer as brightly as your pup’s coat in the sun.

See you on the water,
— Sherri Smeraglia