Some dogs chase balls. Others guard homes. And then there are the ones built for adventure—the ones with webbed feet that glide through water like furry little speedboats.
These dogs don’t just tolerate water; they live for it. Whether it’s diving into lakes, splashing through marshes, or retrieving ducks in the wild, they’re happiest when they’re wet and working.
From powerful retrievers to nimble hunting companions, webbed-foot dog breeds have a long history of swimming, exploring, and making a splash wherever they go.
Curious which breeds were born for life in the water? Let’s dive into 17 incredible dogs with webbed feet!
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever, known for its friendly and outgoing nature, is an adept swimmer thanks to its webbed feet. These dogs are enthusiastic companions in the water, whether fetching a ball or simply swimming alongside their humans. Labs are built for endurance, often participating in water sports and rescue missions.
Their love for water is matched by their intelligence, making them easy to train and eager to please. Families seeking a playful and loyal addition will find the Labrador to be an ideal choice, especially if water activities are a family affair.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants, famed for their swimming prowess and life-saving abilities. These dogs have a natural affinity for water, often participating in rescue operations. Their webbed feet and water-resistant coat make them perfect for aquatic adventures.
Despite their size, they are gentle and patient, making them wonderful companions for families with children. Newfoundlands are known for their sweet nature and protective instincts, always ready to help those in need. Their love for water is deeply ingrained, making them happiest when swimming or playing by the sea.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a spirited and intelligent breed, historically used by fishermen to herd fish into nets and retrieve lost gear. Their webbed feet and strong swimming skills make them proficient in water tasks.
These dogs are energetic and thrive on mental stimulation, often excelling in dog sports that involve water. Their curly, hypoallergenic coat is an added bonus for families with allergies. Known for their loyalty, Portuguese Water Dogs form close bonds with their families, making them both a working partner and a beloved pet.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a robust and determined breed, bred for duck hunting in the cold waters of Maryland. Their dense, oily coat and webbed feet provide excellent insulation and swimming abilities.
These dogs are hardworking and thrive in environments where they can perform retrieval tasks. While independent, they are deeply loyal and protective of their families. Chessies are not just hunters; they are also affectionate companions, enjoying both work and play in equal measure, especially when it involves water.
Otterhound
Otterhounds, with their distinctive rough coat and webbed feet, are natural swimmers bred for hunting otters in England. These dogs possess an incredible sense of smell and a playful demeanor.
Their love for water is inherent, making them happiest when exploring rivers and lakes. Otterhounds are known for their independent yet affectionate nature, often described as gentle giants. Families with active lifestyles will find them to be energetic companions who enjoy water activities. Despite their hunting background, they are amiable and enjoy socializing with both humans and other dogs.
American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile and energetic breed, bred for hunting and retrieving in water. Their compact, muscular build and webbed feet make them agile swimmers, adept at navigating various water conditions.
These dogs are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them highly trainable. They are devoted companions, forming strong bonds with their families. While they excel in hunting, they are equally content enjoying casual water play. Families who love outdoor adventures will find the American Water Spaniel to be an enthusiastic and loyal addition.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often called a Toller, is known for its unique ability to lure ducks within shooting range. Their webbed feet and keen agility make them exceptional swimmers.
These dogs are energetic and thrive in environments where they can engage both physically and mentally. Their striking reddish coat and playful nature make them a joy to watch in action. Tollers are affectionate and eager to please, forming strong relationships with their families. Their versatility in water activities makes them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and hunting aficionados alike.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is easily recognizable by its curly coat and distinctive topknot. These dogs are skilled swimmers, aided by their webbed feet and strong, athletic build.
Bred for hunting and retrieving, they have an energetic and intelligent nature, excelling in both water and land activities. Irish Water Spaniels are known for their friendly demeanor and playful antics, endearing them to families. Their loyalty and eagerness to please make them wonderful companions, especially for those who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle. Their unique appearance and lively personality make them stand out in any setting.
Curly-Coated Retriever
Curly-Coated Retrievers are known for their distinctive tight curls and strong swimming abilities. Bred for hunting, these dogs excel in retrieving tasks both on land and in water.
Their webbed feet and athletic build enable them to navigate various terrains with ease. They are intelligent and independent thinkers, often requiring an experienced handler. Despite their hunting instincts, they are sociable and enjoy family activities. Curly-Coated Retrievers are enthusiastic about water play and make loyal companions for active families who appreciate their unique appearance and spirited nature.
Barbet
The Barbet is a charming and versatile breed, known for its thick, curly coat and jovial personality. These dogs are natural swimmers, aided by their webbed feet and strong, muscular build.
Historically used for hunting waterfowl, they have an instinctive love for water and enjoy activities that challenge them both mentally and physically. Barbets are affectionate and sociable, making them great family pets who thrive on companionship. Their playful nature and eagerness to learn make them entertaining and engaging, whether they are frolicking in the water or relaxing at home.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo, originally bred as a water retriever in Italy, is now famed for its truffle-hunting skills. These dogs have a dense, curly coat that protects them in water and harsh weather conditions.
Equipped with webbed feet, they are adept swimmers who enjoy water-related activities. Lagottos are intelligent and eager to learn, making them highly trainable in various tasks. Their affectionate and gentle nature endears them to families, while their lively and curious demeanor keeps them engaged. Whether swimming or sniffing out truffles, they are a versatile and lovable breed.
Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water Dogs are energetic and intelligent, well-suited for a variety of tasks, including herding and water rescue. Their webbed feet and curly coat make them excellent swimmers, adept at navigating different water environments.
They thrive on mental and physical stimulation, often excelling in dog sports and training exercises. Spanish Water Dogs are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, enjoying both work and play. Their affectionate nature and versatility make them a favorite for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures. Their unique appearance and spirited personality add to their charm.
Poodle
Poodles, often associated with elegance, are remarkable swimmers with a history rooted in water retrieval. Their webbed feet and athletic build contribute to their prowess in water sports.
Poodles come in various sizes, but all share a love for water and an intelligent, trainable nature. They are known for their agility and often participate in competitive dog sports. Their hypoallergenic coat and sociable personality make them popular family pets. Poodles thrive in environments where they can exercise both their body and mind, making them ideal companions for those seeking an active and engaging pet.
Flat-Coated Retriever
Flat-Coated Retrievers are known for their friendly and exuberant nature, paired with a love for water. Their webbed feet and silky, waterproof coat make them excellent swimmers.
Bred for retrieving, they excel in both water and field activities, showcasing intelligence and enthusiasm. These dogs are affectionate and sociable, making them popular family pets. Their playful demeanor and eagerness to please ensure they fit well into active households. Flat-Coated Retrievers enjoy participating in various dog sports, thriving in environments where they can explore and engage with their surroundings. Their joyful spirit is infectious.
Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel, originally bred for hunting wild turkeys and waterfowl in South Carolina, is a versatile and energetic breed. Equipped with webbed feet, they are adept swimmers who excel in retrieval tasks.
These dogs are known for their friendly disposition and eagerness to please, making them highly trainable companions. Boykins form strong attachments to their families, thriving in environments where they can participate in outdoor activities. Their compact size and spirited nature make them ideal for active individuals seeking a loyal and adventurous pet. Water activities are a particular favorite for this lively breed.
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter, with its striking mahogany coat, is more than just a pretty face. This breed’s webbed feet make it an excellent swimmer, ready to splash through any body of water. Originally bred for hunting in Ireland, these dogs are energetic and love to explore.
Whether it’s a lake, river, or pool, an Irish Setter is always up for the challenge. Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them great companions for families who love the outdoors. They require regular exercise and enjoy activities that engage their natural instincts.
Dachshund
While not the first breed you might think of for swimming, the Dachshund surprises with its webbed feet that aid in aquatic adventures. Originally bred for hunting badgers, this breed is tenacious and spirited, loving both land and water escapades.
Their elongated bodies and strong legs make them capable swimmers, albeit in shallower waters. Dachshunds thrive on adventure and are surprisingly adept at paddling through gentle streams. Engaging them in water play can be a fun way to exercise their agile bodies and satisfy their curiosity.