10 Water Loving Dog Breeds That Can’t Get Enough of Swimming

Some dogs don’t just like the water—they absolutely love it. You may have noticed how certain breeds seem happiest when they’re swimming, playing in lakes, or splashing at the beach. If you’re looking for a companion that enjoys water activities as much as you do, learning about water-loving dog breeds can help you find the perfect match.

Whether you want a new exercise buddy or just want a dog that’s comfortable in and around water, knowing which breeds are natural swimmers is helpful. This article will introduce you to dogs that thrive when they’re near water and what makes them such great swimming partners.

1. Labrador Retriever

• If you want a dog that loves to swim, the Labrador Retriever is a top choice. Labs are well-known for their swimming abilities and enjoy being in the water.
• They have strong, athletic bodies and webbed feet that help them move easily through lakes, rivers, and even pools. Their thick double coat keeps them warm in cool water.
• Labs have friendly personalities and like to play games in the water. You can throw a ball or stick, and most Labradors will chase it with excitement.
• Many people say Labs are born swimmers. They have a wide tail, sometimes called an “otter tail,” which works like a rudder to help them steer in the water.
• Labrador Retrievers are often recommended as one of the best dogs for swimming. They are used in water rescue and retrieving work because of their natural love for water.

2. Portuguese Water Dog

• Portuguese Water Dogs have webbed feet, which help them swim well. Their strong bodies and curly coats also protect them in the water. You can often find them jumping into lakes, pools, or even the ocean without hesitation.
• They are smart and energetic, always looking for something to do. Portuguese Water Dogs enjoy swimming games, fetching toys in the water, and joining you for boat rides. They need regular exercise, and swimming is a favorite activity for them.
• These dogs are known for being loyal and easy to train. If you want a companion that thrives near water and enjoys being active, the Portuguese Water Dog is a good fit for your lifestyle.

3. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

• Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, also called “Chessies,” have thick, waterproof coats. This special fur helps them stay warm when swimming in cold lakes or rivers. Their webbed feet make it easier for them to paddle for long distances.
• These dogs are known for their determination and confidence in the water. You can expect a Chesapeake Bay Retriever to swim through rough waves or jump into chilly water without hesitation. They are commonly listed among the top dog breeds for swimming.
• A Chesapeake Bay Retriever enjoys games like fetch or dock diving. If you live near water or like to visit rivers and lakes, this breed will happily join you for every adventure and swim.

4. Irish Water Spaniel

• The Irish Water Spaniel is easy to recognize because of its curly, water-repellent coat. This helps the breed stay warm and dry while swimming. That dense fur also gives the Irish Water Spaniel a unique appearance that many people find appealing.
• These dogs are known for being playful and active. They enjoy games that involve fetching and swimming. If you live near water or enjoy outdoor activities, you will likely appreciate having an Irish Water Spaniel by your side.
• The breed comes from Ireland, where it was originally used as a hunting dog for retrieving birds from water. Today, you will still find the Irish Water Spaniel often ready to jump in and splash around as soon as it sees a lake, river, or pond.

5. American Water Spaniel

• If you want a breed that loves the water, the American Water Spaniel is a strong choice. This dog is known for being active, friendly, and eager to please. You can expect it to enjoy swimming and playing in lakes, ponds, or rivers.
• Its compact and muscular body helps it move easily through the water. The waterproof, curly coat keeps the dog warm and dry while swimming. Because of these traits, this breed is great for outdoor activities near water.
• The American Water Spaniel also has webbed feet, which help it glide smoothly through the water. This makes swimming less tiring and more fun for your dog. You’ll often see this breed retrieving objects from the water with energy and excitement.
• The American Water Spaniel is one of the dogs that are born to swim and enjoy being in the water as much as being on land. With the right care and training, you can help your dog make the most of its natural swimming skills.

6. Spanish Water Dog

• If you want a dog that enjoys both water and activity, the Spanish Water Dog is a strong choice. This breed was originally developed to work around water and herd sheep. Their skills made them useful for retrieving items from lakes and rivers.
• You will notice that Spanish Water Dogs have curly coats. Their fur helps protect them while swimming. Grooming is important because their curls can get tangled after swimming.
• Spanish Water Dogs are very energetic. They usually love to play fetch in the water or swim for long periods. Daily exercise, including swimming, is important to keep them happy.
• In many homes, these dogs become loyal family members. They are also smart and easy to train, especially if you include water activities.

7. Newfoundland

• If you are searching for a dog that is natural in the water, the Newfoundland stands out. This breed is known for being strong swimmers and having webbed feet. These features help them move through the water with ease.
• Newfoundlands were originally bred to work on ships in Canada. They are big and powerful, making them good at performing water rescues and helping with heavy tasks in the water. Their thick, water-resistant coats also keep them warm while swimming.
• These dogs have a calm and gentle nature, which makes them a favorite for families. If you enjoy swimming or spending time by the water, you may find the Newfoundland to be the perfect companion. 
• Their swimming ability is so impressive that they are often considered among the top breeds for water activities, as highlighted by PetMD and the AKC.

8. Flat-Coated Retriever

• If you want a dog who truly loves the water, the Flat-Coated Retriever is a great choice. This breed was developed to retrieve game both on land and in water. Their athletic bodies help them swim with ease and energy.
• Flat-Coated Retrievers are friendly and outgoing. They tend to make swimming feel like a game, so you may see them leap into a pond or lake without hesitation. These dogs enjoy time with their family and often want to join you for any water activity.
• Their coat is water-resistant, which helps keep them comfortable when wet. Many owners notice that Flat-Coated Retrievers are happiest when swimming or fetching a ball from the water. If you want a reliable swimmer, this breed is known for its strong swimming ability.

9. Curly-Coated Retriever

• If you want a dog that loves the water, the Curly-Coated Retriever is a strong choice. This breed is known for its curly, water-resistant coat that helps keep it light and warm while swimming.
• Curly-Coated Retrievers were originally bred to retrieve game from lakes and rivers. Their webbed feet and strong legs make them powerful swimmers.
• You will often find these dogs playing and retrieving objects in ponds, lakes, or even pools. Their energetic nature means they need plenty of exercise, and swimming is excellent for keeping them healthy.
• Because of their natural swim abilities and joyful attitude, Curly-Coated Retrievers are one of the classic dogs that love to swim. If you enjoy water activities, this breed will likely want to join you every time.

10. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

• If you love watching dogs have fun in the water, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is one to notice. This breed was developed in Nova Scotia, Canada, where it learned to work with hunters near lakes and rivers. Tollers are known for their skills in luring and retrieving waterfowl.
• You will find that this breed is not only talented but full of energy. Tollers are smart, active, and enjoy having a job to do, especially if it involves swimming. Their love of water is one of their strongest traits.
• These retrievers have a waterproof coat that helps them swim, even in cold water. Their tails are bushy and their bodies are strong, making them great swimmers. Many owners report that their Tollers are happiest when they’re playing or working in the water.
• If you want a dog who is eager to swim and needs daily exercise, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever may be a good match.