Dogs are known for their playful nature, and many enjoy a good splash in the water, while others prefer to keep their paws firmly planted on solid ground.
Whether it’s a refreshing swim in a lake or a dip in the pool, some breeds are natural-born swimmers, thriving in the water with ease. On the other hand, some dogs have little interest in water and would rather stay dry.
1. Schnauzer
Miniature, standard, and giant Schnauzers are not only excellent family companions but also good swimmers.
Their robust, muscular bodies and energetic nature make them well-suited for swimming. While they aren’t as known for swimming as some retrievers, Schnauzers are capable swimmers, and many enjoy getting into the water for a good splash.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are highly energetic, intelligent, and natural swimmers. Originally bred for herding livestock in various environments, they have a strong instinct to work in water, making them excellent swimmers.
They enjoy water activities, whether it’s swimming in lakes or rivers, and are often seen diving in to retrieve toys or take a refreshing dip after a long day of exercise.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most water-loving breeds out there. Originally bred as hunting and retrieving dogs, they thrive in the water, using their strong swimming abilities to fetch waterfowl.
Whether it’s a lake, river, or even the ocean, Labradors are natural swimmers who enjoy every splash and dive, making them perfect companions for outdoor water activities.
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are true water enthusiasts, thanks to their webbed feet and thick, water-resistant fur. These giant dogs were originally bred for water rescue work, and they have a natural talent for swimming.
Whether they’re pulling boats or saving people from drowning, Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers and enjoy the water, always willing to dive in when needed.
5. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Highly skilled in the water, this breed was originally bred for retrieving waterfowl in the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its strong, muscular build and exceptional swimming abilities, this dog thrives in water.
With webbed feet and a thick coat, it’s no surprise that the Chesapeake Bay Retriever loves a good swim and excels in water-related activities.
6. Portuguese Water Dog
Renowned for its love of swimming, this breed has webbed feet, making it an ideal water companion. Bred to work on fishing boats, the Portuguese Water Dog excels in various water tasks, from herding fish to retrieving items.
Their agility and enthusiasm for swimming make them natural water lovers, always eager to dive in when given the chance.
7. Golden Retriever
Known for their playful and friendly nature, these dogs are well-equipped for water activities. Originally bred to retrieve game from water, Golden Retrievers possess a natural affinity for swimming.
Their strong build, love for play, and keen instincts make them one of the most popular and enthusiastic swimmers among dog breeds.
8. Irish Water Spaniel
This breed’s curly coat and webbed feet make it an excellent swimmer. Irish Water Spaniels were originally bred for water retrieving and have a natural instinct for aquatic tasks.
Their high energy and love for water-related activities mean they are always ready to dive in, making them perfect companions for swimming.
9. Barbet
With their thick, curly coats and webbed feet, Barbets are built for the water. Historically bred for retrieving in water, they are strong swimmers who enjoy a good splash.
These dogs have a natural inclination to swim and are most at home when they’re in the water, retrieving items or simply enjoying the cool water on a hot day.
10. Otterhound
Originally bred to hunt otters, these dogs are exceptional swimmers, known for their endurance and love for water. Their strong, muscular build and webbed feet make them well-suited for long swims.
Otterhounds thrive in aquatic environments, often found splashing in lakes and rivers, chasing after anything that catches their attention.
11. Flat-Coated Retriever
With a playful, outgoing nature, these dogs are true water enthusiasts. Their love for swimming is evident, as they are always eager to jump into any body of water.
Originally bred for retrieving in the water, Flat-Coated Retrievers combine their playful spirit with excellent swimming abilities, making them perfect companions for water activities.
12. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
This breed was specifically developed for retrieving waterfowl, and their natural swimming ability shows it.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are incredibly agile in the water, and their webbed feet allow them to glide effortlessly through lakes and rivers. They are known for their energy and love of water, always up for a swim or a game of fetch.
13. American Water Spaniel
These dogs are bred for retrieving in water, making them excellent swimmers. With a dense coat and strong swimming abilities, they thrive in water-related tasks.
American Water Spaniels enjoy being in the water, often fetching toys or retrieving items, and are always up for a swim, especially when it’s part of an active outdoor adventure.
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Despite their gentle, affectionate nature, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not typically fond of swimming.
Their small size and longer, silky coats make swimming uncomfortable for them. These dogs generally prefer to stay dry, enjoying leisurely walks and cuddles on solid ground instead.
15. Pug
Much like their Bulldog cousins, Pugs are not natural swimmers. Their short snouts, heavy bodies, and breathing difficulties make them uncomfortable and unsafe in the water.
While they may enjoy wading in shallow water, they generally prefer staying on dry land, and owners should be cautious around pools or deep water.
16. Bulldog
Despite their playful, stubborn nature, Bulldogs are not natural swimmers. Their short snouts and heavy build make it difficult for them to stay afloat, and they often prefer to stay on dry land.
Bulldogs tend to avoid water and may feel anxious or even fearful when faced with swimming, so it’s best to keep them on solid ground.
17. Basset Hound
With their long bodies and short legs, Basset Hounds aren’t built for swimming. Their physical structure makes it difficult for them to paddle effectively in the water.
Basset Hounds are more comfortable sniffing around on dry land and generally don’t enjoy water-related activities.
18. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are strong, independent dogs, but they are not fond of swimming. Their thick fur and unique body structure make swimming uncomfortable for them.
They are more likely to avoid water and are happier staying on dry land, where they can relax and enjoy their surroundings without getting wet.
19. Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, aren’t natural swimmers. Swimming is physically challenging for them, and they usually prefer to keep their paws on dry land.
While they may enjoy wading through shallow water, Dachshunds typically aren’t fond of swimming in deeper waters.
20. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs, with their flat faces and dense coats, find swimming difficult and generally prefer to stay on dry land.
Their body structure makes swimming a struggle, and they may become stressed or uncomfortable in the water. Pekingese are more content lounging around and staying dry.
21. Boxer
Boxers are energetic dogs with lots of stamina, but swimming is usually not their favorite activity.
While they may enjoy the occasional splash in shallow water, their muscular build and short snouts make it hard for them to swim comfortably. Boxers tend to prefer running, playing, or exercising on solid ground.
22. Mastiff
Mastiffs are large, heavy dogs that are more suited to lounging on dry land than swimming.
Their bulk makes swimming difficult and tiring for them, and most Mastiffs would rather relax on solid ground than take a dip in the water. These dogs typically avoid swimming whenever possible.
23. Yorkshire Terrier
While small and energetic, Yorkshire Terriers are not natural swimmers. Their tiny size and light build make them prone to getting easily tired in the water.
Most Yorkies are happier staying dry and playing indoors or running around on the ground rather than jumping into the water.
24. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, with their short faces and long, beautiful coats, are not built for swimming. Their thick fur becomes heavy when wet, and their small, compact bodies make it difficult for them to stay afloat.
Shih Tzus usually prefer to stay on solid ground where they can rest and enjoy the company of their owners.