Dog breeds that make the best swimmers

Some dogs love to swim. Others can't stand the water. They're a lot like us, really.

A dog's attitude to the water largely depends on their personality, but some breeds are more inclined to aquatic life than others. So, if you're looking for a four-legged swimming partner to do laps with, you should probably research dogs that can swim the best.

It's important to understand which breeds are natural doggy paddlers. Some breeds, particularly smaller ones, may struggle.

Below, we address the characteristics of good water dog breeds, the breeds that excel at swimming and whether all dogs can swim.

Can all dogs swim?

So, can all dog breeds swim? No.

It's a myth that all dogs can swim, probably due to most dogs having a natural "doggy paddle". Some dogs don't adapt to the water at all, and it causes them a lot of physical and mental stress.

For example, breeds with low body fat, like Boxers and Whippets, naturally dislike the water. They're also more prone to hypothermia, placing more stress on them.

Other factors, like illness and age, can impact how a dog takes to water too. For example, while Labradors are typical "water dogs", an older, overweight one with dysplasia issues might not have a good time swimming.

So no, not all dogs can swim and not all like swimming. But it's important to take this on a case-by-case basis.

A key thing to remember is this: all dogs need supervision when swimming. Even if your dog is a natural in the water, any dog can drown, and they can need your help at any time.

Characteristics of good swimmer breeds

Water dog breeds need to be physically and mentally ready for swimming. For example, some breeds may have all the physical attributes to be strong swimmers, but may not have the behaviour to flourish (and vice-versa).

Physical traits

• Webbed feet - allow a dog to push more water when paddling, increasing their speed and efficiency

• Strong, muscular build - improves a dog's ability to swim for longer

• Water-resistant coat - improves their buoyancy and technique

• Body fat - helps a dog regulate their temperature, lowering the risk of hypothermia

Behavioural traits

• A natural affinity for water - some dogs like water more than others, making swimming less stressful for them

• High energy levels - high-energy breeds love exercise, so there may be less stress when swimming

• Intelligence and trainability - like us, swimming is a skill, so intelligence and trainability can help a dog adapt

What dog breeds like to swim?

Labrador Retriever

Labradors are gifted swimmers thanks to their build and intelligence. They were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl, and this lineage is still strong in their modern-day counterparts.

Learn all about Labradors.

Newfoundland

Known as the swimming dog, Newfoundlands love the water. They were bred for water rescue, which has given them the best lung capacity and strong water instincts.

Learn more about Newfoundlands.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers typically have a great attitude to swimming, but the main thing that helps them is their water-repellant coat. It's thick and oily, meaning they can stave off the cold and can swim without too much bother.

Our Golden Retriever guide discusses more.

Portuguese Water Dog

With "water" in the name, the Portuguese Water Dog is, naturally, a big fan of swimming. Their lean bodies, long legs and even their head shape make them predisposed to fast, strong swimming.

It also helps that most of them just love the water.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Thanks to their short, waterproof coats and Retriever instincts, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers take to the water very well. They're naturally quite muscular and strong, and their coat makes them resistant to issues like hypothermia.

Spanish Water Dog

Their curly, woolly coats and muscular frame make Spanish Water Dogs strong swimmers, and most have a lot of fun in the water. They were originally bred for hunting and water work, and they've maintained a lot of this lineage.

Irish Water Spaniel

We're sensing a theme here - if a dog has "water" in its name, it's probably a fan of swimming.

Irish Water Spaniels - like most Spaniels - adore water, and their background as highly energetic dogs and physical attributes like webbed feet are reflected in their attitude to paddling around.

Honourable mentions

• Standard Poodle

• English Setter

• Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

What dog breeds can't swim?

It's common to hear owners ask questions like "can a pug swim?" or "do bulldogs swim?" As mentioned, it varies on a case-by-case basis, but these breeds typically dislike swimming:

• Bulldogs

• Pugs

• Bull Terriers

• Basset Hounds

• Boxers

• Corgis

• Dachshunds

• Shih Tzus

Training and safety tips for swimming dogs

How to teach your dog how to swim

The most important thing about this is your attitude and supervision. Be gentle, don't rush things, use positive affirmations and always supervise your dog in the water.

1. Firstly, try leading your dog into the water gently. Go up to their paws and legs, and see how they react - some won't like it, others will splash and have fun.

2. After your dog eases into the water, lead them in a litter deeper. Stay close if they're stressed out.

3. Your dog should now naturally begin to paddle, assuming they're open to swimming. The majority of dogs will paddle using their front legs, but we need to teach them to use their hind legs too.

4. Lead them more into the water and hold them by their belly. They should then kick their hind legs into motion

5. Over time, get them more used to the water and swimming. Reward your dog each time with positive affirmation training, and always return them to land if they get anxious or stressed.

For some quick safety tips, always follow these:

• Supervise and monitor your dog carefully

• Use life vests if needed

• Recognise and react to signs of distress

• Talk to your vet first

Health considerations

• Be aware of ear infections and how to prevent them

• Regularly groom your dog's coat after swimming

• Maintain good hydration, nutrition and ample rest for your dog

When should I teach my puppy to swim?

Always speak to your vet about when to teach your puppy to swim. It varies based on your pup's breed, health and personality, so always take a vet's lead.

There are three places where you can teach them:

• Safe, shallow natural bodies of water

• The bath

• Small pools, like inflatable ones

Don't put too much pressure on them to learn; pick a safe spot, supervise them and have fun.

Benefits of swimming for dogs

Swimming gives dogs a good form of physical exercise. It's beneficial since it's so low-impact, meaning it doesn't wear on their joints too much. It builds muscle and improves cardiovascular health, too.

Dogs who like swimming also get good mental stimulation from it, enhancing their problem-solving skills and reducing anxiety.

Controlled swimming can help injured, elderly dogs as part of a physiotherapy plan. Vets call this hydrotherapy, which we've discussed in-depth in our guide. For example, it's a common form of treatment for dysplasia.

Our benefits of swimming for dogs guide covers more.

So, should I take my dog swimming?

As mentioned, a dog's attitude to swimming depends on numerous factors, like their age, breed and personality.

It's always important to chat things through with your vet first. But for most dogs, swimming can be a key part of their exercise plan.

As ever, it's important to take out good dog insurance to help you and your dog prepare for the unexpected.

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