Some dogs cannonball into water like it’s their life’s purpose. Others? You’d think the garden hose was a monster. Water brings out wild personalities in our furry friends. From fearless retrievers who chase waves for hours to dainty divas who tiptoe around puddles like it’s lava, every breed has its own splash story. You might expect a big, tough dog to love swimming— but some of the boldest pups are closet aquaphobes. And then there are the surprise swimmers: tiny breeds who paddle like pros the moment their paws get wet. Whether you’re looking for a lake-loving companion or just curious why your pup runs from the bathtub, this list will show you who sinks, who swims, and who flat-out refuses to get their fur wet.
Labrador Retriever
Known for their love of water, Labrador Retrievers are natural swimmers. Their strong, athletic build and webbed paws make them well-suited for aquatic activities. Many Labs enjoy fetching sticks or balls from the water, showcasing their playful and energetic nature. Their waterproof coat helps them stay buoyant and warm during long swims. Labs have been used historically as fisherman’s helpers, retrieving nets and fish from the water.
Newfoundland
With a heart as big as its paws, the Newfoundland is every child’s gentle guardian. These massive dogs have a natural affinity for water, often working as lifeguards due to their strength and swimming prowess. Their webbed feet and water-resistant coat enable them to excel in aquatic rescues. Newfoundlands are known for their ability to save people from drowning, showcasing their brave and nurturing nature.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are synonymous with enthusiasm, especially when it comes to water. Their playful disposition makes them a favorite at the beach or poolside. Goldens are often seen happily swimming and retrieving toys, thanks to their love for play and strong swimming skills. Their dense, water-repellant coat ensures they stay comfortable in cold water.
Portuguese Water Dog
This breed, as its name suggests, has a storied history with water. The Portuguese Water Dog was traditionally used by Portuguese fishermen for retrieving lost gear and herding fish into nets. Their curly, waterproof coat and webbed feet make them agile swimmers. These dogs are full of energy and love to engage in water-based activities, making them perfect partners for aquatic adventures.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are built for endurance in cold waters. Known for their love of retrieving, particularly waterfowl, these dogs have a thick, oily coat that provides insulation. Their powerful build and sturdy legs make them excellent swimmers. Chessies are renowned for their perseverance and love of water, making them ideal companions for hunting and outdoor activities.
Irish Water Spaniel
With a distinctive curly coat and lively personality, the Irish Water Spaniel is an exceptional swimmer. Originally bred for hunting, they possess both speed and agility in the water. Their water-repellant coat helps them navigate cold and wet environments. These dogs thrive in aquatic settings, often seen joyfully leaping into lakes and streams.
American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile and energetic breed, known for its love of water. Bred to retrieve game, particularly waterfowl, they are efficient and enthusiastic swimmers. Their curly, dense coat offers protection from the elements, allowing them to thrive in various aquatic conditions. This breed is often seen happily splashing around in rivers and lakes.
Barbet
The rare and charming Barbet is a water-loving breed with a joyful spirit. Native to France, these dogs have a rich history as waterfowl hunters. Their thick, curly coat protects them in cold water, while their webbed paws aid in swimming. Barbets are often seen gracefully gliding through lakes and ponds, embodying the true essence of a water dog.
Standard Poodle
Often associated with elegance, Standard Poodles are also known for their swimming abilities. Their intelligence and agility make them excellent swimmers, while their curly coat provides buoyancy and insulation. Poodles are eager to engage in water games and activities, bringing joy and companionship to any water-loving family.
English Setter
English Setters are graceful and determined hunters, well-suited for swimming. Originally bred for retrieving game, their athletic build and stamina make them adept in water. They have a silky, feathered coat that helps them glide through water with ease. These dogs are often seen confidently wading through streams and ponds in pursuit of adventure.
Curly-Coated Retriever
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a distinctive breed known for its unique coat and love of water. With origins as a hunting dog, they are skilled retrievers both on land and in water. Their curly, water-resistant coat provides warmth and protection, allowing them to excel in cold aquatic environments. These retrievers are often seen leaping into waves with boundless energy.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Known for its agility and enthusiasm, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a dedicated water dog. Their compact size and strong build make them excellent swimmers, while their playful nature ensures a good time. They are often used for ‘tolling’ ducks into shooting range by mimicking the movement of a fox. Their water-repellent coat allows them to withstand cold temperatures.
Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is an energetic and versatile breed, well-suited for swimming. Traditionally used for herding and water work, they possess strong swimming abilities and a love for water games. Their curly, woolly coat provides protection against cold water, making them resilient in various aquatic environments. These dogs are often found joyfully splashing in lakes and rivers.
Otterhound
The Otterhound, with its distinctive shaggy appearance, is a natural water lover. Bred for hunting otters, they have strong swimming skills supported by their webbed feet. Their dense, oily coat provides insulation, allowing them to thrive in cold water. Otterhounds are often seen wading through rivers, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration.
Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany Spaniel is known for its energy and enthusiasm, both on land and in the water. Bred for bird hunting, they are adept swimmers with a love for retrieving. Their sleek coat allows them to glide through water efficiently, and they are often seen joyfully swimming in lakes and streams. This breed thrives in environments where they can engage in water-based activities.
Basset Hound
Despite their curious nature, Basset Hounds often shy away from water. Their short legs and heavy body make swimming challenging, and they tend to avoid deep water. Bassets prefer to keep their paws dry, exploring the shoreline with their powerful nose instead. They are often seen sniffing around water’s edge, hesitant to take the plunge.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, small in stature but big in personality, are typically not fond of water. Their tiny size makes them vulnerable in aquatic environments, and they often express reluctance to swim. Chihuahuas prefer to enjoy the sun from a safe, dry spot, away from splashes and waves. While they may cautiously dip a toe, most choose to steer clear of water altogether.
Pug
Pugs, with their adorable squished faces, often approach water with hesitation. Their compact, stocky build and short legs are not ideal for swimming. Many Pugs prefer to stay dry, enjoying playtime on solid ground. While some may brave the shallow end, Pugs generally avoid deep water, content to watch from the sidelines.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their elongated bodies and short legs, often find swimming to be a daunting task. They typically prefer the safety of land, avoiding deep water. These curious dogs might explore the water’s edge but are rarely seen taking a dip. Their caution around water is understandable, given their body structure.
Shih Tzu
The elegant Shih Tzu, with its luxurious coat, usually avoids water activities. Their dense fur can become heavy when wet, and they often prefer to stay dry. Shih Tzus are more likely to be seen lounging poolside, enjoying the sunshine rather than taking a swim. Their delicate nature makes them less enthusiastic about water-based play.