Some dogs are born to swim. Forget the “doggy paddle” — these breeds take to the water like true water lovers, effortlessly gliding through with grace and speed.
If you’re the type of family that loves to hit the beach, paddleboard, or even kayak with your pet, you’ll want one of these pups by your side. Their natural swimming abilities make them perfect companions for any water adventure.
From the water-loving Labrador to the elegant Portuguese Water Dog, these breeds live for the splash and fun of water. Whether it’s a swim in the lake or a dip in the pool, they’re ready to dive in without hesitation.
Ready to meet the 20 dog breeds that are born swimmers? These pups are here to show you how it’s done in the water!
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are famous for their love of water. These dogs have a water-resistant coat and webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers. Originally bred to help fishermen retrieve nets, they are energetic and playful companions.
Their strong physique allows them to swim for long distances. Labs possess a natural instinct to retrieve, which makes them enjoy water games such as fetching sticks or balls.
Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them great family pets, and their swimming skills can be enjoyed by everyone, especially in the summer.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their impressive swimming skills. With a thick double coat and webbed paws, they are natural water rescue dogs. Historically, they have saved drowning sailors and fishermen.
Their strength and endurance allow them to navigate through strong currents with ease. Despite their size, they are gentle and patient, making them wonderful companions for families.
Their calm demeanor and love for water activities mean they are always ready for a swim, whether it’s in a pool, lake, or ocean.
Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic and love being in water. They were originally bred to herd fish and retrieve lost tackle for fishermen. Their curly, water-resistant coat protects them in various water conditions.
Known for their agility and intelligence, these dogs can learn complex water tasks easily. They enjoy participating in water-based sports and training exercises.
Their loyalty and playful nature make them excellent companions for active families who spend time near water, ensuring they are never too far from a splashy adventure.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are robust dogs with a passion for water. Bred to hunt waterfowl, they have a dense, oily coat that keeps them warm and dry. Their powerful build allows them to swim in challenging conditions.
These intelligent dogs are known for their perseverance and strong work ethic, often enjoying tasks that challenge their minds and bodies.
Ideal for active owners, they thrive in environments where they can swim and play, making them perfect for families who live near water sources.
Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniels are distinct with their curly coats and love for water. Bred for retrieving games, they have a natural affinity for swimming. Their waterproof coat and webbed feet enhance their aquatic abilities.
These dogs are intelligent and require mental stimulation, making them apt for training in various water activities. They enjoy companionship and are playful, making them excellent family pets.
Their energetic nature is best matched with owners who appreciate their zest for life and love for a good swim.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are iconic for their friendly temperament and love of water. With a dense, water-repellent coat, they excel at swimming. Originally bred as hunting companions, they enjoy retrieving games.
Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to train for various tasks, including water-based activities. These lovable dogs are loyal and enjoy being part of active families.
Their joyful nature and affinity for water make them ideal companions for those who love spending time by lakes or the sea.
American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile breed known for its adept swimming and hunting skills. With a dense, waterproof coat, they handle water with ease.
These energetic dogs are quick learners, eager to participate in water sports and activities. Their compact size doesn’t hinder their enthusiasm for adventure, making them great companions for outdoor enthusiasts.
Their friendly disposition and love for play make them suitable pets for families, especially those who enjoy spending time near water bodies.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Lagotto Romagnolos are known for their curly coats and love of water. Originally bred to hunt truffles, their adaptability extends to swimming.
Their dense, water-resistant fur keeps them comfortable in various water conditions. These dogs possess keen intelligence and eagerness to please, making them excellent at learning water-based tasks.
Their friendly nature and energetic spirit make them delightful companions for families who enjoy outdoor water activities, ensuring fun-filled days by the water.
Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water Dogs are energetic and enjoy water-related activities. With a curly, waterproof coat, they are well-suited for swimming. Originally bred for herding and retrieving, they are versatile in water tasks.
Their intelligence and agility make them quick learners, enjoying challenges that involve swimming and fetching. These dogs thrive in active environments where they can engage in physical activities.
Their lively nature and love for play make them ideal companions for families who spend time near water, ensuring endless fun and adventure.
Otterhound
Otterhounds are unique with their shaggy coats and love for water. Bred to hunt otters, they have a natural affinity for swimming. Their webbed feet and dense fur make them capable swimmers.
These dogs are independent yet affectionate, enjoying activities that engage both their minds and bodies. Their playful demeanor makes them great family pets, especially for those near water.
Their adventurous spirit and swimming prowess mean they are always ready for a water-based escapade, making every day exciting.
Curly-Coated Retriever
Curly-Coated Retrievers are known for their distinctive curly fur and love for water. Bred as hunting companions, they are adept swimmers. Their water-resistant coat helps in adapting to various aquatic environments.
These intelligent dogs are eager to learn and excel in water-related activities, from fetching to competitive sports. Their friendly and confident nature makes them excellent companions for active families.
Their enthusiasm for water ensures they are always up for a swim, providing endless enjoyment for those who love the outdoors.
Barbet
Barbets are rare, water-loving dogs with a distinct, fluffy coat. Bred as waterfowl retrievers, they have a natural affinity for swimming. Their dense fur protects them in various water conditions.
Known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, they enjoy learning water-based tasks and participating in aquatic activities. Their sociable nature makes them great companions for families who spend time near water.
Their playful energy and swimming skill make every trip to the water an exciting adventure.
Flat-Coated Retriever
Flat-Coated Retrievers are lively and love the water. With their glossy, water-repellent coat, they excel at swimming. Bred as hunting companions, they enjoy retrieving games both on land and in water.
Their intelligence and friendly demeanor make them easy to train for various activities, including water sports. These sociable dogs thrive in active families who can provide ample exercise and playtime.
Their enthusiasm and love for water ensure they’re always ready for a swim, making them perfect partners for aquatic adventures.
Boykin Spaniel
Boykin Spaniels are small yet determined swimmers. Bred for hunting waterfowl, they have a natural talent for water activities. Their compact, muscular build supports their energetic nature.
Known for their friendly disposition, they form strong bonds with families and enjoy participating in water sports. Their intelligence and eagerness to learn make them quick learners in aquatic training.
Their playful spirit and love for water make them ideal companions for families who enjoy outdoor adventures, ensuring every swim is filled with joy.
Toller (Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever)
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or Toller, is a lively breed renowned for its swimming skills. Their double coat is water-resistant, making them proficient at water activities.
Bred to lure and retrieve ducks, they have a natural affinity for swimming. Their intelligence and energetic nature make them ideal for families who enjoy active lifestyles.
Their playful demeanor and eagerness to engage in water games ensure that they are always ready for a splash, bringing joy to any aquatic adventure.
Vizsla
Vizslas are athletic dogs with a love for swimming. Known for their sleek, short coat, they are well-suited to water activities. Their natural hunting instincts make them excellent at retrieving games.
These intelligent dogs are eager to please and enjoy participating in swimming and other outdoor activities. Their affectionate nature and boundless energy make them fantastic companions for active families.
Their enthusiasm for water ensures that they bring excitement and joy to every swimming adventure, making them cherished pets.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners are sleek, athletic dogs with a penchant for swimming. Their short, smooth coat is ideal for water activities. Bred as hunting dogs, they have a natural affinity for retrieving in water.
These intelligent and energetic dogs thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities and swimming. Their affectionate nature and eagerness to please make them wonderful family pets.
Their love for water ensures that they are always ready for a swim, providing endless fun for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Keeshond
Keeshonds are known for their thick, fluffy coats and playful nature. While not initially bred for swimming, they enjoy water activities with their families.
Their intelligence and sociability make them quick learners, adapting to various water games and activities. These friendly dogs thrive in family settings, especially those that include outdoor adventures.
Their cheerful demeanor and love for play make them wonderful companions for families who enjoy spending time by the water, ensuring every outing is filled with laughter and joy.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog might not be the first breed that comes to mind when thinking about swimmers, but these dogs are quite adept in water. Their muscular build and strong limbs enable them to paddle through the water with ease.
These dogs are known for their strength and agility, making swimming a natural extension of their physical capabilities. While mainly used as a working breed, they enjoy the chance to play in water, offering hours of fun.
To encourage this activity, introducing them to water at a young age can foster a lifelong love of swimming. Make sure to supervise their aquatic adventures for safety.
Dachshund
Despite their small stature, Dachshunds can be surprisingly good swimmers. Their elongated bodies and determination allow them to glide through the water with surprising speed.
These little dogs were originally bred for hunting, and their persistence translates well to swimming. While they might not be suited for long distances, they certainly enjoy short swims.
It’s important to provide a safe and shallow environment for them, as their short legs can make swimming more challenging. With encouragement, they can become confident swimmers.