Not all dogs were born to swim. While some breeds take to the water like natural-born fish, others would rather stay dry and keep their paws on solid ground.
It might be shocking, but there are actually several breeds that struggle to stay afloat, despite being beloved companions. Whether it’s their body structure, short legs, or just a lack of interest in water, these dogs are more about cuddles than laps in the pool.
So, while your retriever might dive into any body of water, don’t expect every dog to share that enthusiasm.
Ready to meet the surprising breeds who aren’t exactly swimming champions? Let’s dive into 20 dog breeds who are more likely to avoid the deep end!
Bulldog
Bulldogs, known for their muscular build and short snouts, face challenges in water. Their body structure makes it difficult to stay buoyant and their short legs don’t provide efficient paddling power.
Moreover, their flat faces mean they have to tilt their heads higher to keep water out of their noses, which can be exhausting. For these reasons, it’s crucial to monitor Bulldogs around water.
If you own a Bulldog and want to let them enjoy some water play, investing in a well-fitted doggy life jacket is a wise decision.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are characterized by their long bodies and short legs, which are not conducive to swimming. Their heavy bone structure also doesn’t help them float easily.
Additionally, their long ears can become waterlogged, increasing drag and making swimming laborious. Because of these factors, Basset Hounds often prefer to steer clear of water activities.
Owners of Basset Hounds should be cautious when near water bodies, ensuring their pets are safe and supervised at all times. Consider introducing them to water slowly with positive reinforcement.
Pug
Pugs, with their small stature and flat faces, are not natural swimmers. Their brachycephalic nature means they can struggle to breathe well, especially in water where they need to keep their faces up.
Their short legs also impede efficient swimming, making it tiring for them to stay afloat. Pugs are better suited for playing on the shore than in the water.
To ensure their safety, always equip them with a life jacket if they are near or in water. Supervision is key to preventing any accidents.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, often recognized by their elongated bodies and short legs, are not built for swimming. Their structure makes it difficult to keep their heads above water, and their legs are not ideal for paddling.
Additionally, their low-to-the-ground build might cause them to tire quickly if they attempt to swim. It’s important for Dachshund owners to be aware of these limitations and provide safety measures.
Using a life jacket and closely watching them during water activities can help ensure their well-being.
Boxer
Boxers are energetic and playful, but their swimming skills are not their strong suit. Their muscular build and deep chests make it challenging to stay buoyant.
They also have a propensity to get overly excited, which might lead to exhaustion in water. To keep Boxers safe, always supervise their swimming activities and use a life jacket.
Training them to steadily enter and exit water can also help build their confidence and ensure they have fun without risks.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, the smallest of dog breeds, are not naturally equipped for swimming. Their small size means they can easily tire and become overwhelmed by water currents.
Moreover, their delicate structure and lack of insulating body fat make them susceptible to cold water temperatures. Therefore, Chihuahuas should always be closely monitored when near water.
Providing a shallow, controlled water environment with a life jacket can allow them to safely enjoy water play without the risks associated with deeper bodies.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, with their long, dense coats, are not ideal swimmers. Their abundant fur becomes heavy when wet, making it difficult to stay afloat.
Additionally, their short muzzles can cause breathing difficulties, especially when trying to keep their heads above water. This breed is better suited for land-based activities.
For Shih Tzus to enjoy water safely, a life jacket is recommended, and any swimming should be done under strict supervision. Grooming their coats can also help reduce water absorption.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, similar to their English counterparts, struggle with swimming. Their compact bodies and short legs do not allow for effective swimming techniques.
Additionally, their brachycephalic nature predisposes them to breathing issues, which can be exacerbated in water. French Bulldogs should always be equipped with a life jacket if they are near water.
Owners should constantly supervise them to prevent any mishaps and consider water play in controlled, shallow environments.
Pekingese
Pekingese dogs, with their long, flowing coats and flat faces, are not natural swimmers. Their dense fur can quickly become waterlogged, weighing them down in water.
Their brachycephalic facial structure also complicates breathing, especially when trying to keep their heads above water surfaces. Pekingese are best kept away from deep water activities.
If water play is desired, it should be in a controlled setting with a life jacket, and owners should always provide close supervision.
Maltese
Maltese dogs are small and delicate, making them less suited for swimming. Their fine, silky coats can become quickly saturated, leading to a heavy burden in water.
Additionally, their small size makes them vulnerable to even small water currents, which can be tiring. Maltese prefer to stay on dry land, where they can prance and play with ease.
To ensure safety during any water exposure, use a life jacket and keep the water experience brief and controlled.
Corgi
Corgis, with their stout bodies and short legs, are not natural swimmers. Their structure makes it hard to maintain buoyancy and maneuver in water efficiently.
While they are energetic and playful on land, they can easily tire in water. Corgis benefit from wearing a flotation vest during water activities.
Owners should always supervise them closely and keep water play sessions short to prevent fatigue and ensure a fun experience.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos, known for their long, thick fur, can struggle in water. Their heavy coats can quickly absorb water, making swimming difficult.
Additionally, their small size and short legs don’t provide much propulsion, leading to a tiring swim experience. These dogs are better suited for land adventures.
For water activities, ensure they wear a life jacket and play in controlled, shallow environments to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, with their fine, silky coats, are not particularly fond of water. Their small size and bone structure make it difficult to swim effectively.
Moreover, their long hair can become easily tangled and waterlogged, leading to discomfort and difficulty staying afloat. Yorkies are better off enjoying dry land play and cuddles.
If introduced to water, ensure it’s a safe, controlled environment and they wear a life jacket for added safety.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, with their compact, muscular builds, face challenges when swimming. Their short snouts can cause breathing issues, especially in demanding water conditions.
These dogs may become easily fatigued when trying to swim due to their body structure. They are better suited for land play and walks.
For water activities, always provide a life jacket and monitor closely to ensure they remain safe and enjoy their time without stress.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians, with their small frames and fluffy coats, are not designed for swimming. Their dense fur can absorb water quickly, making it heavy and cumbersome.
Additionally, their small size makes them susceptible to tiring easily in water. Pomeranians should have limited exposure to large bodies of water.
If they do partake in water activities, ensure it’s in a controlled environment with a life jacket, keeping playtime short to prevent exhaustion.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, with their elegant coats and gentle demeanor, may not be the best swimmers. Their long fur can become heavy when wet, causing difficulty in swimming.
Additionally, their gentle nature means they might become nervous or stressed in water. It’s important to introduce them to water in a calm and reassuring manner.
Always provide supervision and a life vest to ensure safe and enjoyable water experiences.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, known for their stout build and wiry coats, may struggle in water. Their shape and structure do not lend themselves to buoyancy or efficient swimming.
Their independent nature means they might venture into water without understanding the risks. Owners should be vigilant and provide a life jacket if near water.
Controlled and safe water play can be enjoyable if proper precautions are taken to ensure their safety.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons, with their small stature and distinctive faces, are not natural swimmers. Their body structure makes it difficult to stay afloat for extended periods.
Additionally, their brachycephalic nature can lead to breathing issues, particularly in the water. Careful supervision and the use of a life jacket are essential for safety.
To allow them to explore water, choose shallow areas and ensure they are comfortable and confident.
Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins, with their long, flowing coats and delicate builds, face challenges in the water. Their fur can become waterlogged, and their brachycephalic faces make breathing difficult.
These dogs often prefer staying dry and enjoying life on land. If water activities are desired, use a life jacket and maintain vigilance.
Introduce them to water gradually, ensuring a positive and stress-free experience.
Papillon
Papillons, with their light frames and large, butterfly-like ears, are not strong swimmers. Their small size and fine bone structure can make swimming tiring.
Additionally, their long, glossy coats can become cumbersome when wet, further complicating their attempts to swim. Papillons are more suited to playing on solid ground.
If swimming, always use a life jacket and keep water sessions short, ensuring they remain safe and comfortable.