10 Dogs That Love to Swim

Summer is the perfect time to hit the beach, pool, or lake, and there’s a dog out there for every lifestyle—even for those who love swimming! If you enjoy spending your days in the water, these high-energy, water-loving dogs are more than happy to join you. They’ll happily spend hours by your side, splashing around and making a splash!

What Is a Water Dog?

Water dogs are bred to excel in or around water. Historically, people relied on these dogs for various tasks like retrieving game from the water, retrieving items that fell overboard, and even delivering messages between boats. Nowadays, many of these dogs have retained their water-loving disposition and love to fetch objects. Unsurprisingly, they are also excellent swimmers.

Water dog breeds typically have waterproof coats, webbed feet, and a natural love of swimming. They are often thought to be predecessors of modern retrievers, who, as any pet parent knows, always have time for a splash.

Here Are The 10 Dogs That Love the Water

Portuguese Water Dog

Originally bred to work alongside fishermen, Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. These energetic dogs have curly or wavy fur that doesn’t shed much but needs regular grooming. Keep them happy with lots of exercise, like a daily swim or another heart-pumping activity for at least 30 minutes!

Irish Water Spaniel

One of the oldest spaniels, the Irish Water Spaniel, is a rare water-loving dog. Though they resemble Poodles due to their curly coat, they are larger and have a distinctive skinny, rat-like tail. They excel at swimming and retrieving objects.

American Water Spaniel

The state dog of Wisconsin, the American Water Spaniel, is a great retriever with a sensitive disposition. They have a curly coat that repels water, making them perfect for families seeking an intelligent and eager-to-please companion.

Spanish Water Dog

Energetic and affectionate, Spanish Water Dogs thrive when given tasks. Originally bred to herd cattle and retrieve waterfowl, they love staying active by swimming or playing fetch in the water.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate personality, their famous golden coat helps repel water, making them frequent swimmers.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are among the best swimmers. Their muscular body and wide, otter-like tail make them perfect for water fun. Labs also excel at dock diving, which combines running, jumping, swimming, and retrieving.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The first retriever breed registered by the American Kennel Club, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have a thick double coat with an oily layer that repels water. This helps them stay warm while swimming, even in cold temperatures.

Standard Poodle

Originally bred to hunt waterfowl, Standard Poodles have a laid-back disposition and a wooly, water-resistant coat. They enjoy swimming and their curly coat won’t weigh them down in the water.

Curly-Coated Retriever

Smart and confident, Curly-Coated Retrievers love swimming and playing in lakes. This affectionate breed is great with kids, making them perfect for family fun at the lake.

Flat-Coated Retriever

Bred to retrieve game on land and in water, Flat-Coated Retrievers have webbed feet and water-resistant fur. They love swimming and are always ready for a dip.

English Setter

English Setters are excellent bird dogs that love being in and around water. They enjoy spending time with their pet parents and will happily join them for a summer swim.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo, or “water dog” in the Romagna dialect, was used for waterfowl retrieval. They still love swimming but are now often used to hunt truffles due to their keen sense of smell.

Newfoundland

Originally bred to work on ships, Newfoundlands are strong swimmers capable of rescuing a grown man from drowning. Their partially webbed paws and thick, water-resistant coat make them adept at navigating icy waters.

Irish Setter

Irish Setters are outgoing, playful, and affectionate. They are strong swimmers and enjoy being active with their pet parents, whether at the beach or in a backyard pool.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The smallest retriever breed, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, are full of energy. With a water-repellant double coat, they are well-suited for retrieving ducks and other waterfowl. They express their excitement with playful, high-pitched howls.

Now that you know these dogs that love to swim, your also have to know that If you have a water dog, don’t automatically assume they’re an avid swimmer. While some dogs may naturally have a greater affinity for the water, it’s important to introduce all dogs to the water gradually and under supervision.

Plus for extra safety: make sure you're equipped with the best gear. Joyride Harness offers top-notch mesh harnesses that are perfect for your beach adventures. Designed for comfort and durability, Joyride Harnesses keep your dog secure while providing plenty of ventilation to keep them cool. 

Check out our latest collection and gear up for a fun-filled summer with your water-loving pup!