Introduction
Dogs have an innate ability to swim that traces back to their wild ancestor, the wolf. Even puppies are able to paddle and float instinctively within weeks of birth. Though most dogs can swim short distances to safety, some breeds excel at swimming longer distances, diving deep, and competing in canine aquatic sports.
Over 100 different dog breeds have shown swimming prowess. Certain dogs have physical traits like webbed feet, water repellent coats, rudder-like tails, and muscular builds that make them ideally suited for swimming. Their natural instincts, along with specific training, further enhance their aquatic skills.
Understanding what attributes make for the best canine swimmers can help match active families with water-loving dogs that will enjoy hiking, dock diving, water trials, and swimming alongside boats. While no dog should be forced into the water, pairing a natural swimmer with a family that spends time boating, at the beach, or in lakes can lead to fulfilling adventures for both dog and owner.
Breeds Known for Swimming
Certain dog breeds are well-known for their love of water and natural swimming abilities. The Labrador Retriever has a history of assisting fishermen, making it an obvious choice for an excellent swimming companion. Its muscular build, webbed toes, and water-resistant double coat provide Labradors with ideal physical features for swimming.
The Portuguese Water Dog was also bred to aid fishermen, by swimming between boats and shore to pass along messages and nets. Their strong swimming skills, high energy, intelligence, and eager-to-please nature make Portuguese Water Dogs wonderful swimmers and retrieval dogs in the water.
Other top swimming breeds include the Newfoundland, with its massive size, strength, and webbed feet; the Golden Retriever, which shares many traits with the Labrador; and the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, which has a wavy, waterproof coat and webbed toes perfect for its original job of retrieving waterfowl.
Physical Attributes
Certain physical characteristics give some dog breeds an advantage in the water over others. Features like webbed feet, water-resistant coats, muscular builds, and paddle-shaped tails all facilitate faster and more efficient swimming.
Webbed feet, where skin connects the toes, provide better propulsion in water just like aquatic mammals and birds. Breeds like Labradors, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, and Portuguese Water Dogs have webbed toes. The webbing creates a paddle-like structure with a larger surface area to push more water back (1).
Water-resistant coats made of dense, short fur provide insulation and buoyancy while swimming. The oily outercoat of breeds like Poodles and Irish Water Spaniels repels water and keeps the dog warm. These waterproof coats channel water over the body rather than absorbing it (2).
A strong, muscular physique gives power to a dog’s swimming strokes. Lean, athletic breeds like Spaniels and Setters use their chest and shoulders to drive through the water. Their compact stature cuts down on drag compared to long-bodied dogs (3).
An otter-like tail helps propel streamlined breeds built for swimming. The flat, paddle-shaped tails of Water Spaniels, Retrievers, and Newfoundlands act as rudders to aid steering and forward motion in water (1).
While all dogs can swim to some degree, these adaptations make swimming easier and more efficient for water-loving breeds.
(1) https://www.dutch.com/blogs/dogs/dog-breeds-that-like-to-swim
(2) https://blog.tryfi.com/water-dogs-exploring-canines-loving-water/
(3) https://www.amli.com/blog/dog-breeds-that-are-good-swimmers
Instincts and Trainability
Many dog breeds have strong natural instincts for swimming and retrieval that make them excellent swimmers. Retrievers like Labs and Goldens are bred specifically for their love of water and skills at fetching. They often take to swimming at a very young age. Their webbed toes help propel them through the water, and they have oily coats that provide insulation and water resistance [1]. Other water-loving breeds like Portuguese Water Dogs and Newfoundlands have similar physical adaptations that enable them to swim long distances and dive deep underwater.
While the desire to get in the water varies from dog to dog, most healthy dogs have the basic physical capability to swim. However, proper training is still required to develop good technique and water safety. Some dogs may need more encouragement and positive reinforcement to gain confidence swimming. With patience and practice, almost any breed can become a skilled swimmer.
Competition and Work
Water work and swimming provide opportunities for dogs in both sports and professional capacities. In competitions like dock diving, dogs run on a dock and leap into a pool, aiming to jump the furthest distance. According to the Whole Dog Journal article “Canine Water Sports for Aquatic Service Dogs,” events like dock diving taps into dogs’ natural love of water and allows them to showcase their athleticism.
Beyond sports, some working dogs leverage their swimming skills in professional roles like water rescue. The Smithsonian Magazine article “Can Dogs Work as Lifeguards?” highlights how Newfoundlands named Buoy and Beacon work alongside lifeguards to help swimmers in need at a Maine beach. Their swimming capabilities paired with training allows these working dogs to help save lives.
Safety Considerations
When allowing dogs to swim, it’s important to keep some safety considerations in mind. According to WebMD (1), you should rinse your dog off after swimming to remove any irritants from their coat and skin. It’s also a good idea to remove your dog’s flea collar before swimming to prevent issues. Completely drying your dog’s ears after swimming will help prevent ear infections.
The site Dutch (2) recommends several other tips for dog water safety. Always supervise your dog when swimming and be prepared to intervene if needed. Don’t allow your dog to drink the water, which could contain parasites or bacteria. Use a dog lifejacket for extra security and flotation assistance. Avoid areas with strong currents or undertows which can overpower your dog. Check water conditions like temperature and clarity before allowing your dog to enter. Start with shallow water before gradually working up to deeper swimming.
With some basic precautions, you can keep your dog safe while enjoying fun water activities together.
Fun Swimming Activities for Dogs
Dogs can get great enjoyment and exercise from swimming recreationally. Here are some fun ideas for water activities with your canine companion:
Swimming Pools
Let your dog swim and play fetch in a backyard pool if you have one. Make sure the pool has steps or a ramp so your dog can easily get in and out of the water. Always supervise swimmers.
Beaches
Many dogs love running and splashing in the ocean waves. Check local guidelines, as some beaches prohibit pets during busy seasons. Always supervise your dog around water.
Lakes
Lakes offer massive spaces for dogs to swim freely and chase ducks or sticks. Beware of strong currents or choppy water that could overwhelm smaller dogs. Life jackets provide an extra layer of safety.
Kiddie Pools
For dogs that are nervous around deep water, a kiddie pool filled with a few inches of water allows them to get used to the sensation. Give them pool toys to make it more engaging. Never leave pets unsupervised.
Comparison of Top Breeds
When looking for the best dog breed for swimming, several top contenders rise to the surface:
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is considered one of the best swimming dogs. They have a muscular, streamlined body, otter-like tail, and webbed feet that make them natural swimmers [1]. Their short, water-resistant coat and high energy level also contribute to their love of water. Labs excel at fetching toys and retrieving ducks while swimming.
Portuguese Water Dog
Originally bred to herd fish, the Portuguese Water Dog is another amazing swimmer. Their muscular build, webbed feet, and water-repellent coat help them excel in the water [2]. They have high stamina and can swim long distances. Their intelligence and trainability make them great at water sports.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland has a long history as a water rescue dog. Their enormous size, strength, and webbed feet allow them to swim powerfully and tow people to safety [3]. Their double coat protects them from cold water temperatures. Newfoundlands are also very calm, loyal companions.
While all three breeds are excellent swimmers, some key differences emerge. Labs and Portuguese Water Dogs are medium-sized and energetic, better for active owners who want a water-loving exercise buddy. Newfoundlands are much larger and slower moving, best suited to more sedate lifestyles.
Choosing the Right Dog
If having a dog that enjoys swimming and water activities is important to you, here are some tips for selecting the right breed:
Consider a breed developed for water retrievals like the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Curly Coated Retriever, or Labrador Retriever. Their love of water is instinctual.
Research breeds known for having webbed feet and water-repellent coats like the Portuguese Water Dog or Irish Water Spaniel. These physical traits make them excellent swimmers.
Consider your lifestyle and activity level. Breeds like American Water Spaniels need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Less active owners may prefer calmer breeds like the Newfoundland.
Purchase from a responsible breeder or rescue that can advise you on the dog’s experience with water and swim-ability. Puppies may need more socialization and training around water than adult dogs.
No matter what breed you choose, proper training and safety precautions are still important when introducing any dog to swimming.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best canine swimming companion, there are many factors to consider beyond just breed. While some dogs like Labradors, Newfoundlands, and Golden Retrievers have natural advantages thanks to their strong legs, webbed feet, water-repellent coats, and love of water, nearly any dog can learn to enjoy a dip with proper training and supervision.
More important than breed is each dog’s individual temperament, trainability, and exercise needs. Providing proper safety precautions, life jackets, supervision, and swimming area restrictions can allow even non-swimmer breeds to paddle alongside you. Consider your lifestyle and intended activities when selecting a furry friend to share water fun.
With preparation and training, dogs can transition from doggie paddlers to accomplished swimmers. Bonding through water play and adventures allows dogs’ natural strengths and enthusiasms to shine. Whichever breed you choose, you’re sure to make waves and a lifelong buddy.