If you are planning a summer lake vacation, the hardest part is usually figuring out what to do with your dog. Boarding them at a kennel is expensive, hiring a pet sitter is stressful, and leaving them behind means the family isn’t truly complete.
We know that for most families, the dog is the kids. That is why Emerald Cove Marina at Bullards Bar is proud to offer the premier dog-friendly houseboat rentals in Northern California.
While other massive lakes like Shasta or Oroville hit you with hidden “non-refundable pet fees,” strict size limits, or force you to navigate heavy boat traffic that terrifies your pet, Bullards Bar is a completely different experience.
Here is why dog owners are skipping the crowded lakes and booking their summer houseboat rentals with us:
1. Glass-Smooth Water for Anxious Pups
Dogs love the water, but they don’t love being bounced around by massive wakes from 100-mph speedboats. Because Bullards Bar is tucked away in the Tahoe National Forest with strictly enforced boating rules, our water is famously “glass-smooth.” Your dog can safely walk the decks, nap in the sun, and swim in our quiet coves without the constant chop of a crowded party lake.
2. Private Coves & Shoreline Exploring
Dogs need to stretch their legs! At Bullards Bar, you aren’t tied up to a massive concrete dock next to 50 other boats. You navigate your houseboat into your own private, emerald-green cove and tie off directly to the trees. You can simply walk your dog off the back of the boat right onto the shoreline for their morning walk in the pristine national forest.
3. A Premium Fleet That Welcomes Paws
Whether you are booking our massive flagship Ruby, the gorgeous Sapphire, the mid-tier luxury Diamond, or the classic Emerald, your four-legged best friend is welcome aboard to enjoy the top-deck views and spacious living areas.
(Note: To accommodate our guests with severe pet allergies, the Topaz houseboat is our only strictly pet-free vessel. If you are bringing a dog, simply choose any of our other incredible boats!)
Tips for Houseboating with Your Dog:
- Bring a Doggie Life Jacket: Even if your dog is a great swimmer, a life jacket with a top handle makes it incredibly easy to help them out of the water and onto the back swim deck.
- Pack Extra Towels: We provide standard shower towels, but bring a few dedicated “lake towels” to dry off those paws before they run back into the houseboat living room.
- Sun Protection: The top deck of a houseboat is sunny! Make sure your dog has a shady spot under the canopy or a bimini top to cool down.
Ready to Book Your Dog-Friendly Vacation?
Don’t leave your best friend at home, and don’t pay ridiculous hidden fees at crowded lakes. Our 2026 summer dates are filling up fast.
Click here to view our dog-friendly houseboat fleet and book your Bullards Bar vacation today!