7 Dog Breeds That Absolutely Love to Swim
Ankita Rai | Jun 05, 2025, 22:35 IST
( Image credit : Pexels, Times Pets )
Looking for a dog that loves the water as much as you do? Some breeds are natural swimmers, thanks to their history, build, and instincts. From the powerful Newfoundland and playful Golden Retriever to the agile Portuguese Water Dog and energetic Toller, these seven breeds were born to swim. With water-resistant coats, webbed feet, and fearless attitudes, they’re perfect companions for lake days, beach outings, or poolside fun. Whether you want a water retriever or a splash-loving sidekick, these dogs make every swim session more exciting and a lot more joyful.
There are certain dogs who’d do anything to keep their paws dry—but not these seven. For them, water isn’t just a place to play—it’s where they come alive. Whether it’s due to their history, body type, or sheer enthusiasm, these breeds were made for swimming. If you enjoy beach vacations, lake outings, or poolside fun, these dogs might just be your ideal companions.
1. Newfoundland
Nicknamed the “gentle giant of the water,” the Newfoundland is a natural swimmer with a heroic streak. Originally bred in Canada to assist fishermen, these dogs were trusted to haul nets, carry loads, and rescue people from drowning. Their dense, water-repellent double coat and strong, webbed paws make them excellent in cold waters. Calm, strong, and endlessly sweet-natured, Newfoundlands are as dependable in the water as they are around children.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the ultimate water enthusiasts. Bred in Scotland for retrieving waterfowl, they have a natural fondness for swimming. Their thick, water-resistant coat and sturdy frame make them powerful and graceful in the water. Whether it’s diving for a toy or swimming across a lake, most Goldens don’t need any convincing—they’re happiest when they’re splashing around.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
This breed was made for life at sea. Portuguese Water Dogs once worked alongside fishermen to herd fish into nets, retrieve gear, and deliver messages between boats. Their tight, curly coats repel water, and their webbed feet make them fast, agile swimmers. Energetic and intelligent, they thrive on physical activity and are perfect for families who love the outdoors. Notably, this breed also served as the First Dog of the Obama family.
4. American Water Spaniel
A lesser-known but highly capable swimmer, the American Water Spaniel hails from the Great Lakes region of the U.S. Originally bred for hunting and retrieving from boats, this medium-sized dog is covered in a curly, water-resistant coat. Agile and athletic, it handles rough water with ease. It’s a lively, loyal dog that’s always ready for water-based play, making it an excellent companion for active households.
5. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Don’t let the long name fool you—this breed is compact, energetic, and built for water. Developed in Canada, the Toller was used to lure ducks close to shore and retrieve them. They’re incredibly agile and love diving into water with enthusiasm. With their double coat and webbed toes, Tollers are fast, efficient swimmers. Their playful spirit and endurance make them ideal for sporty, water-loving families.
6. Spanish Water Dog
Originally bred as a working dog for both herding and fishing, the Spanish Water Dog is a versatile, active breed with a strong love for swimming. It has a curly coat that doesn’t require frequent grooming and sheds minimally. These dogs are smart, strong, and full of energy, making swimming a perfect outlet for their physical and mental stimulation. Whether it’s paddling in a pond or diving into the ocean, this breed thrives around water.
7. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Built for endurance and strength, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was bred in the United States to retrieve ducks in icy waters. Their thick, oily coats insulate them from the cold and shed water easily. With a muscular build and a determined spirit, these dogs are made for long-distance swims. Though not as outwardly affectionate as some other breeds, their loyalty runs deep, especially when they have a job to do in the water.
Conclusion
Some dogs tolerate water, but these breeds live for it. From fearless diving to steady retrieving, they bring skill, history, and enthusiasm to every swim. Whether you’re looking for a dog to join you on weekend lake trips or one to splash around in the backyard pool, these seven breeds bring heart, adventure, and companionship—no matter how deep the water gets.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
1. Newfoundland
Newfoundland
( Image credit : Pexels )
Nicknamed the “gentle giant of the water,” the Newfoundland is a natural swimmer with a heroic streak. Originally bred in Canada to assist fishermen, these dogs were trusted to haul nets, carry loads, and rescue people from drowning. Their dense, water-repellent double coat and strong, webbed paws make them excellent in cold waters. Calm, strong, and endlessly sweet-natured, Newfoundlands are as dependable in the water as they are around children.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden retriever
( Image credit : Pexels )
Golden Retrievers are the ultimate water enthusiasts. Bred in Scotland for retrieving waterfowl, they have a natural fondness for swimming. Their thick, water-resistant coat and sturdy frame make them powerful and graceful in the water. Whether it’s diving for a toy or swimming across a lake, most Goldens don’t need any convincing—they’re happiest when they’re splashing around.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese water dog
( Image credit : Pexels )
This breed was made for life at sea. Portuguese Water Dogs once worked alongside fishermen to herd fish into nets, retrieve gear, and deliver messages between boats. Their tight, curly coats repel water, and their webbed feet make them fast, agile swimmers. Energetic and intelligent, they thrive on physical activity and are perfect for families who love the outdoors. Notably, this breed also served as the First Dog of the Obama family.
4. American Water Spaniel
American Water Spaniel
( Image credit : Pexels )
A lesser-known but highly capable swimmer, the American Water Spaniel hails from the Great Lakes region of the U.S. Originally bred for hunting and retrieving from boats, this medium-sized dog is covered in a curly, water-resistant coat. Agile and athletic, it handles rough water with ease. It’s a lively, loyal dog that’s always ready for water-based play, making it an excellent companion for active households.
5. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
( Image credit : Pexels )
Don’t let the long name fool you—this breed is compact, energetic, and built for water. Developed in Canada, the Toller was used to lure ducks close to shore and retrieve them. They’re incredibly agile and love diving into water with enthusiasm. With their double coat and webbed toes, Tollers are fast, efficient swimmers. Their playful spirit and endurance make them ideal for sporty, water-loving families.
6. Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water dog
( Image credit : Pexels )
Originally bred as a working dog for both herding and fishing, the Spanish Water Dog is a versatile, active breed with a strong love for swimming. It has a curly coat that doesn’t require frequent grooming and sheds minimally. These dogs are smart, strong, and full of energy, making swimming a perfect outlet for their physical and mental stimulation. Whether it’s paddling in a pond or diving into the ocean, this breed thrives around water.
7. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
( Image credit : Pexels )
Built for endurance and strength, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was bred in the United States to retrieve ducks in icy waters. Their thick, oily coats insulate them from the cold and shed water easily. With a muscular build and a determined spirit, these dogs are made for long-distance swims. Though not as outwardly affectionate as some other breeds, their loyalty runs deep, especially when they have a job to do in the water.
Conclusion
Some dogs tolerate water, but these breeds live for it. From fearless diving to steady retrieving, they bring skill, history, and enthusiasm to every swim. Whether you’re looking for a dog to join you on weekend lake trips or one to splash around in the backyard pool, these seven breeds bring heart, adventure, and companionship—no matter how deep the water gets.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which dog breed is best for swimming?The Newfoundland is widely considered the best swimmer due to its strength, webbed feet, and water-resistant coat.
- Can all dogs swim naturally?No, not all dogs are natural swimmers—some breeds need training or may dislike water entirely.
- Are water dogs good for families?Yes, most water-loving breeds like Golden Retrievers and Tollers are friendly, active, and great with families.