A guide to dog-friendly canal boat holidays in the UK

Picture this: you and your pup gaze through the porthole window of a narrowboat. They’re fascinated by the ripples in the water and the tweets of the morning birds. You’re surrounded by nature and a world away from the rushed roadside walks. With ABC Boat Hire, you don’t have to choose between adventure and your furry friend – they can come along, too. 

Whether you’re planning in advance or this is a last-minute search for a dog-friendly holiday, read our guide below to find out how to have the best canal boat holiday with your dog. 

How to book your dog onto an ABC Boat Hire holiday 

 Dogs are a part of the family and deserve to tag along on your adventure-fuelled breaks. If you’d like your canine companions to join you, all we ask is that the boat is returned in the same condition as when you first set off. Just let us know about your dog (or dogs!) on the booking form. 

It’s also important to remember that we reserve the right to refuse pets or charge any additional costs, such as repair or cleaning fees. 

Top tips for a smooth sail 

What to pack for your dog on a canal boat break 

 
For your dog and the whole family to make the most of their trip away, make sure your furry friend feels right at home – even if it’s only a weekend break. What’s a better way to remind them of home comforts than with their favourite things? As our narrowboat holidays are self-catering, you have the freedom to bring what you like. 

Here’s what we recommend you bring along with you: 

• toys 

• life jacket 

• lead – remember to pack a spare! 

• harness or jacket with a handle 

• bed and blankets 

• food and treats 

• bowls for food and water 
• dog waste bags 

What to know when bringing your dog onboard 

While on your dog-friendly holiday, your dog must have solid training and guidance on what they can and can’t do around the canal. 

The waterside is perfect for leisurely walks, with plenty of greenery to sniff and fresh air to enjoy, but your dog should be well-behaved at all times in respect of other boaters. To have a safe and fun trip, your pup should be supervised and trained on the lead up to your holiday as well as during. 

Here are some tips about canal boating with dogs that you should be aware of: 

• waterways: Water can be tricky for dogs to get out of, even if they’re well-trained. We recommend that dogs be well supervised and to invest in a harness to bring along with you 

• canal wildlife: Canals are known for their glorious wildlife you may not see anywhere else. Be sure that your dog doesn’t try to chase away or bark at canal wildlife, as this can disrupt not only the wildlife but fellow boaters, too 
• locks: locks can be difficult to navigate for anyone, particularly if you’re a beginner to canal boating or locks. We suggest keeping your beloved dog in the cabin during this time to make it less stressful and so you can safely control the boat 

Travelling with your dog for a canal boat holiday 

And of course, travelling doesn’t just mean by water – you’ll be driving by car to reach the destination of your marina to get settled into your floating home. 

If your dog suffers from travel or motion sickness, or this is your first time taking them with you on your travels, we suggest the following: 

• stop for regular breaks when you can so they’re not stuck in the car for too long and can relieve themselves 
• plan when to moor up so your dog can walk or run in a large space 
• bring anything that may help with the journey, such as travel sickness tablets or a dog-friendly seat if they tend to move a lot

FAQs 

Can dogs swim in the canal? 

While swimming is a great activity for dogs, and you might feel inclined to keep them cool in warmer weather, it’s not advised to let your dog swim in the canal. The PDSA warns against dogs in canals due to potentially fatal infections through contaminated water. For maximum safety, ensure your pooch’s vaccinations are up to date, have a life jacket on them around the water, and ensure they don’t leave your sight. 

Is there an extra fee for dogs on ABC Boat Hire boats? 

No – dogs are allowed on ABC Boat Hire’s narrowboats, free of charge!  

Are there limits on the number of dogs allowed? 

We allow a maximum of two dogs per boat. Please provide their details on the booking form. 

Ready to plan your paw-fect holiday? 

Explore our routes and book your next holiday with ABC Boat Hire today for unforgettable memories with your pup. You can always contact our friendly team with any questions about our dog-friendly holidays.