Swimming isn’t just a favorite pastime for humans; many dogs love the water just as much as we do! Whether you’re looking for a furry buddy to splash around with or a dedicated swimmer to keep you company in the pool, these dog breeds are known for their love of water.
Let’s explore which breeds are ready to make a splash, and which won’t hesitate to run as far away from the pool as they can!
1. Irish Wolfhound
While not typically thought of as a water dog, Irish Wolfhounds are large, strong, and surprisingly agile in the water.
They were originally bred for hunting large game, but their love for water, especially cool rivers and lakes, is well known. These gentle giants enjoy splashing around in the water and are great swimmers, despite their size.
2. Flat-Coated Retriever
Flat-Coated Retrievers are another breed that absolutely loves the water. They are known for their joyful, energetic personality and their natural talent for swimming.
Originally bred as a hunting and retrieving dog, they thrive in water and enjoy playing fetch in lakes, rivers, or even pools. Their love of water is just one of the many reasons they are such a popular family companion.
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is renowned for its love of water, making it one of the best swimming companions in the dog world.
Originally bred to retrieve waterfowl, these dogs are natural swimmers with webbed feet that help them glide through the water effortlessly.
Labradors love to dive in and fetch, whether it’s at the lake, the beach, or in the pool, and their boundless energy and enthusiasm for water-based activities make them a joy to have around in aquatic environments.
4. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are just as water-obsessed as their Labrador cousins, excelling at both retrieving and swimming. With their keen instincts and natural agility, they love splashing around in ponds, lakes, and rivers.
These dogs were bred for waterfowl hunting, so they have a strong connection to water, and their gentle, friendly demeanor makes them excellent partners for swimming sessions or water-based activities.
Their love for water is just one of the many reasons they are beloved by families around the world.
5. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a breed built for the water. With its curly, waterproof coat and webbed feet, this dog was originally bred to work on fishing boats, herding fish, and retrieving items from the water.
These dogs are excellent swimmers and thrive in aquatic environments, making them great companions for any water activities, from swimming to water sports.
Their energetic and hardworking nature, combined with their love for the water, makes them ideal for families who enjoy an active lifestyle near lakes or oceans.
6. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are large, powerful dogs with a natural affinity for water. Originally bred for water rescue and hauling nets for fishermen, Newfoundlands are incredibly strong swimmers.
Their thick, water-resistant coat and webbed feet help them excel in the water, and they have been known to save lives with their swimming abilities.
With their calm and gentle demeanor, Newfoundlands are equally at home swimming in lakes, playing at the beach, or simply enjoying a splash in the pool with their families.
7. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a hardworking, water-loving dog known for its exceptional retrieving skills in cold and challenging waters.
Originally bred to retrieve waterfowl from the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay, these dogs have a thick, water-resistant coat and are extremely loyal to their handlers.
Whether it’s retrieving a duck in the marsh or playing in the surf, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are excellent swimmers and thrive in any water-based activity.
8. English Setter
While English Setters are primarily known for their pointing and hunting skills, they are also fond of water. This breed enjoys cooling off in lakes or rivers after a long day of running and hunting.
Their gentle and friendly nature makes them a great companion for water activities, and their natural athleticism allows them to be skilled swimmers.
Though not as obsessed with water as some retrievers, English Setters still enjoy a refreshing swim in the wild when the opportunity arises.
9. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a curly-coated dog with a love for the water. Bred for retrieving waterfowl, these dogs have a waterproof coat and a strong, muscular build that makes them excellent swimmers.
Their high energy levels and intelligence also make them fantastic companions for active families who enjoy spending time in the water.
Whether it’s diving into a pool or retrieving in a lake, the Irish Water Spaniel thrives in aquatic environments and enjoys the thrill of the chase.
10. American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile and energetic breed that excels in waterfowl hunting and retrieving. Known for their keen nose and love for water, these dogs are highly skilled swimmers who are always eager to jump in and get to work.
Their natural instincts and athleticism allow them to retrieve from lakes, rivers, and marshes with ease. Whether in the field or in the water, American Water Spaniels are dedicated workers with a strong affinity for water activities.
11. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is known for its elegant, flowing coat and dignified demeanor. While they’re graceful and agile on land, these dogs are not typically fond of water.
Afghan Hounds are independent and sometimes aloof, so the cool splash of the pool isn’t quite their idea of fun. Their long, silky coats might also make swimming a bit uncomfortable, as they don’t particularly enjoy getting wet.
12. Komondor
The Komondor is a striking breed with its long, corded coat, often compared to a mop or duster. While they were originally bred to guard sheep in various environments, including near water, they’re not particularly fond of swimming.
Their dense, heavy coat can be cumbersome in the water, and they generally prefer dry land to wade through. The Komondor’s more serious nature and reserved demeanor make them less likely to enjoy a fun day by the pool.
13. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua may be small, but it’s definitely full of personality—just not when it comes to water. Most Chihuahuas are not fans of swimming, and the sound of water can often make them nervous.
Their small size and delicate build make them more cautious around pools, and they would rather stick to the comfort of dry ground.
While some individual Chihuahuas may enjoy a gentle dip, many are content just watching from the sidelines.
14. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their droopy eyes and relaxed, laid-back nature, and water activities just aren’t their style.
These dogs were originally bred for scent tracking and hunting, not swimming. Though they have short legs and long bodies that may not be ideal for swimming, Basset Hounds also have a more laid-back temperament that doesn’t align with the energetic fun of pool time.
They’re happier relaxing in the shade, enjoying a nap or some leisurely sniffing.
15. Pug
The Pug is a small, sturdy dog with a big personality, but they’re not usually the best companions for a swim. Their flat faces (brachycephalic structure) can make breathing a bit difficult in the water, and their short, stocky bodies aren’t built for swimming.
Pugs tend to prefer lounging and playing on dry land, where they can keep cool with minimal effort. Their playful nature might bring them near the pool, but they’re more likely to dip a paw than take a full swim.
16. Bulldog
Bulldogs are strong and stocky dogs with a friendly, easygoing personality, but they are typically not great swimmers. Their heavy bodies and short legs make it difficult for them to stay afloat.
Bulldogs can also have breathing issues due to their flat faces, making swimming a less-than-ideal activity for them.
They might be intrigued by the water, but most Bulldogs would rather lounge around on the poolside or enjoy a relaxing day in the shade.
17. Dachshund
The Dachshund, often known for its long body and short legs, isn’t exactly built for swimming. While some might enjoy a shallow wade or paddle, most Dachshunds would rather stay on solid ground.
Their small, compact frame and reluctance to get their paws wet make them less enthusiastic about water activities. These dogs prefer digging around in the dirt or curling up in a cozy spot, away from any splashing.
18. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, charming dog with a luxurious coat and a preference for pampered comforts. They tend to avoid getting wet due to their long, silky fur, which requires regular grooming.
Most Shih Tzus are not big fans of swimming or water in general, and they would rather stay clean and dry. While some might tolerate a quick bath, don’t expect them to jump into the pool and make a splash.