Papillon Kayak Captain

Captain Jack Sparrow has nothing on Taylor the Papillon Kayak Captain, 

seen here rocking his Doggles.

He would have gritted his teeth, if he had any left, as he climbed from the back of the tandem kayak to his captain's post at the bow. 

Taylor has always believed there is one number regarding his place in the universe, and that number is 1.

So whether it's claiming the 4" AKC Preferred National Agility Championship in 2011, or commanding a one-boat fleet, he demands to be top dog.

So he wasn't exactly happy at being assigned second mate status in the back of the boat as we paddled out onto Lake Michigan for a kayak outing at my family's cottage retreat.

So he hitched up his culottes and climbed around to the front, his grin getting bigger as he climbed along.

He had on his Outward Hound life jacket, of course, and we steadied his way so he wouldn't tip into the drink. Plus, the water was calm so we could have a little fun with the ride.

Taylor settled down once he was up front with a clear and unobstructed view of the way ahead. He squinted with determination through his Doggles as he monitored activity on the passing shoreline.

Taylor is convinced he looks cool in his doggie shades so after a few minutes of adjustment, he seems proud to have them on.

Sunset at the cottage

Although our busy schedules keeps us from getting out on our little boat as often as we like, it's a great way for us to have relax, keep in shape and also have fun with our dogs.

We had Samurai out for his maiden voyage on this trip. He was nervous at first, but by his second trip out, he had settled in for a good ride.

The life jackets made it convenient for us to dip the dogs in the water if they got a little too warm. We also let them swim the rest of the way in when we got near the shore.

I love agility, but it's nice to have some variety, especially in the summer. Best of all, with Captain Taylor at the helm, it's sure to be smooth sailing.