Some dogs were born to make a splash. Whether it’s diving into a lake, chasing waves at the beach, or hopping into the kiddie pool, certain breeds just can’t get enough of the water. Others? Not so much. While every dog is unique, breed tendencies can help you figure out if your pup is more of a swimmer or a shore-sitter.
Here are ten breeds that love to swim, paddle, and play in the water—plus five that usually prefer dry land. Keep in mind, comfort with water can also depend on training, personality, and early exposure.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labs are water lovers through and through. Originally bred to retrieve game from the water, they have webbed feet, water-resistant coats, and powerful tails that help them swim with ease.
Their playful and eager-to-please nature makes them naturals at swimming. Whether it’s fetching a stick or joining the kids in the pool, Labs are usually the first ones in the water and the last ones out.
2. Portuguese Water Dog
As the name suggests, these dogs were bred to work with fishermen—retrieving gear, herding fish, and even delivering messages between boats.
Their thick, waterproof coat and athletic build make them strong swimmers. Portuguese Water Dogs love a challenge and enjoy water-based games and tasks.
3. Golden Retriever
Goldens are famous for their friendly temperament—and their love of water. Like Labs, they were bred for retrieving waterfowl and have the physical build to support long swims.
They’re also extremely loyal and eager to join their humans on any adventure, especially if it includes a splash or two.
4. Newfoundland
These gentle giants were originally bred to rescue people from icy waters in Newfoundland, Canada. They’re incredibly strong swimmers with large, webbed paws and thick, insulating coats.
Newfoundlands often have a calm, nurturing nature and love helping others. Many instinctively “rescue” people they see swimming.
5. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake is one of the toughest water retrievers out there. Bred to work in harsh, icy waters, this breed is rugged, determined, and powerful in the water.
Their oily, waterproof double coat helps them stay warm and buoyant. These dogs have endurance to spare and love having a job to do, especially in aquatic environments.
6. Irish Water Spaniel
This lesser-known breed is a standout swimmer. With its tight curls and natural athleticism, the Irish Water Spaniel is energetic and fearless around water.
They tend to be playful and curious, making them fun companions for beach trips or dockside fetch.
7. Standard Poodle
Surprised? Don’t be. Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers. Their name even comes from the German word “pudel,” which means “to splash.”
Standard Poodles, in particular, are athletic, intelligent, and love to swim. Their dense, curly coat helps keep them warm in the water, though it needs regular care.
8. American Water Spaniel
This rare American breed was built for waterfowl hunting. Compact, muscular, and smart, the American Water Spaniel thrives in wet environments.
Their love of the water runs deep, and they’re happiest when they have a chance to swim, fetch, or follow scents along the shore.
9. Barbet
The Barbet is a French water dog with a charming, woolly coat and a lively personality. These dogs were made to swim, and they adore doing it.
Because of their friendly nature and trainability, Barbets do well in both working roles and family settings—especially those that include water adventures.
10. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Despite their long name, Tollers are small-to-medium retrievers packed with energy and skill. They were bred to “toll,” or lure, waterfowl within shooting range—then retrieve them from the water.
Agile, fast, and fun-loving, Tollers absolutely shine when there’s water involved.
Now for the Land Lovers…
Not every dog is thrilled to get wet. These five breeds tend to avoid water, though there are always exceptions.
11. Pug
With their short legs and flat faces, Pugs aren’t built for strong swimming. Many struggle to stay afloat and tire quickly in the water.
While some enjoy splashing in shallow spots, they should always be closely supervised near water and fitted with a doggy life jacket if needed.
12. Bulldog
Bulldogs are heavy-chested and flat-faced, making swimming difficult and potentially dangerous. Most can’t keep themselves above water without help.
They may enjoy lounging by the water, but not actually getting in it. Stick to dry-land fun for this lovable breed.
13. Basset Hound
Those long ears and short legs aren’t exactly ideal for swimming. Basset Hounds are low to the ground and not the most coordinated in water.
They might be curious and enjoy sniffing around shorelines, but they usually prefer staying dry.
14. Dachshund
With their long bodies and little legs, Dachshunds aren’t great swimmers. They can become tired quickly and struggle to stay afloat.
While some enjoy a shallow splash, most would rather dig in the sand than dive into the water.
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15. Shih Tzu
These little guys have a long coat that gets heavy when wet, and their short snouts can make breathing tricky in the water. They’re not natural swimmers.
If you have a water-loving Shih Tzu, keep water time short and always stay close by. For most, a cozy bath is as wet as they want to get.
Swimming can be a wonderful form of exercise and fun for dogs—but not all are made for it. Whether your dog is a paddler or a sunbather, always supervise around water and go at your dog’s pace.
Read More: These 10 Dog Breeds LOVE the Water
