I live in a sailboat and would love to have a dog. I heard the best breeds are golden retriever, labrador and portuguese water dog, but I'd prefer a smaller dog. Does anyone have a suggestion?

old sea dogs ?

Beagles. Are. Amazing.

SWimming dogs like golden reterievers

maybe a water spaniel? or a Beagle?

Wasserhound.

Believe it or not, Poodles were originally bred in Germany as duck hunting dogs ("Pudelhund', their German name, means Puddle Dog or Water Dog), and are excellent swimmers. They come in all sizes, are very intelligent, don't shed and don't smell when wet. There is no need to keep them in a fancy show clip, either -- a closely sheared "kennel clip" works very well.

If I was to live on a boat and with a dog a small one would do. You must also think of the size of the boat and where and how is the animal going to the bathroom at also what kind of exercises would the dog require. I believe a middle age to older dog a young dog would be just rowdy.

i think maby a Jack Russel or a Laborator would be a good dog maby even a Chihuahua

I agree with T M that a schipperke would be the best dog . they are highly intelligent and good swimmers for their size. beside with a small dog you could train it to use one of those doggy litter boxes and not have to worry about what to do when your dog has to GO!