2) Labrador Retriever
Developed just by the Canadian Labrador Sea coast, they are the water lovers! Their webbed-feet, otter-tails, and double-coats make the Labrador Retrievers excellent swimmers and water workers. They used to catch fishnets and birds on water for the old fisherman of Newfoundland and carried ropes between boats! Being also overly humble makes Labrador Retrievers great companions!
You might not think of this giant sweetheart of a dog as a water dog, but the breed was developed as a water rescue dog. He has natural lifesaving instincts and, with a large lung capacity, can swim long distances to bring a victim to safety. On land, he’s used for carting or drafting . . . or just being an adored family pet.
This beautiful medium-size dog is the smallest of the retrievers. Intelligent and outgoing, he has the energy to work or play all day long and them some. Tollers were developed to lure waterfowl within gun range and then retrieve the dead or wounded birds from the water. They’d lure ducks with their playful activity along the shoreline, which would attract the ducks’ attention.
One of the most popular breeds in the country, the Lab was bred to retrieve waterfowl, often under difficult conditions. He’s an ideal family and sporting dog and is always, always ready for a swim. In fact, hes an excellent swimmer and will happily spend the day retrieving from the water.
Despite his elegant looks, the Standard Poodle is more than just a runway model. With his athleticism and intelligence, he excels in obedience and other dog activities. In France, he was used as a waterfowl retriever and still enjoys a good swim today. https://www.akc.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php Get Your Free AKC eBook
This ancient breed is thought to be the original breed from which all water dogs are descended. Originally used as a gundog to hunt waterfowl, today he’s prized for his ability to hunt for truffles. In fact, he’s the only purebred dog recognized as a specialized truffle searcher. However, he hasn’t lost his natural water dog qualities and is an excellent swimmer.
3) Golden Retriever
Crossed with Retrievers and Water Spaniels explains their love for aquatic environments. They have water-resistant outer coats and rarely does water get into their skin, therefore, are greatly tolerant of cold waters and weathers – allow them to enjoy their trait without a doubt!
Top 10 Best Swimming Dogs
Portuguese Water Dogs. Irish Water Spaniels. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. These dog breeds are all excellent swimmers but having ‘water’ or a body of water referenced in your dog’s name isn’t a prerequisite for dogs that love to swim. Many dog breeds and rescue dogs enjoy splashing around and swimming. And some adore the water so much they seem part amphibian.
Many of these breeds share physical characteristics that make them naturals in the water, including water-resistant coats, webbed toes, and long, powerful legs. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at a few of these swimming dog breed.