Curly Coated Retriever
Like the other retrievers on our list, Curly Coated Retrievers are also very good with water. They are known for their exceptional hunting and retriever abilities both on land and water. This dog is an English dog that was bred to hunt waterfowl. It looks very similar to the other retrievers; the only difference to find is that they sport curly coats. This dog’s curly coat helps it stabilize the body temperature while diving into the lakes or rivers. Though they are very good at training, they still need a lot of attention from you. If you’re looking for an active companion and a gentle family dog, this should be your choice.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, also known as Chessie, is a large gun dog bred for retrieving. Though they are similar to Labrador Retrievers in appearance, they have a wavy coat and better temperament. Its double coat is oily, giving it excellent protection from cold waters. This warm coat gives these dogs the required strength and stamina to stay for hours and hours in the water, and their size and energy make them outstanding water dogs.
Poodle
People often think that a Poodle is best to play on the streets but not water. This isn’t true, as Poodles are true water dogs at heart. Do you know where these dogs get their name from? It’s from the German Word “Pudl,” which means to splash in the water. The curly coat helps this dog to stay warm in the water. The very iconic puff balls of hair were purposely done to keep the specific areas of knees, feet, head, body, and tail warm, which later turned into a fashion statement. This breed is an excellent waterfowl retriever and still maintains it’s capabilities.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is the longest and oldest of the spaniels. Thanks to the dog’s curly, water-resistant coat, it makes it one of the best dog breeds for swimming. It is an athletic dog that makes it a strong swimmer. These dogs were used as generic water dogs in the past, and they still need proper mental stimulation and physical exercise. The best part, just a vigorous shake, and they get rid of all the water on their body.
American Water Spaniel
This charming dog was bred in Wisconsin in the 19th century and used to hunt both on land and in water. This dog has the combined abilities of a retriever and a Spaniel. However, this breed is quite rare to find.
Which Breeds Cannot Swim?
As we mentioned earlier, many people think that every dog can swim really well, but this isn’t true. A few breeds like Pug, Boxers, French Bulldogs and Daschunds are among those breeds who cannot swim in the water. In simple words, dogs with short or stubby legs compared to their body couldn’t get the paddling power to keep moving. Dogs with short snouts have to struggle to keep their flat muzzle above the waterline—some dogs with heavy bones and chest face buoyancy challenges. A thick and long coat that can’t adapt to water weighs down the dog and gets strained quickly.
Summing Up
If you strongly want to welcome a dog in your family who can play well, is loyal, friendly, and water-loving, choose a breed known for its water surviving abilities. All these breeds mentioned above make amazing family dogs and are very intelligent and water-loving. Just make sure you train your dog to swim very patiently and keep an eye on them when they are near water. None of the breeds should be left alone in the water as we don’t know what circumstances may happen, so always be near them where you can protect them in need.
We hope you have a clearer picture in your mind than you had before about which swimming dog to bring home. Honestly, all these breeds are the best swimmers, and you’ll have a great time with them on both land and water. Also, we have selected family dogs that can easily adapt to your house and with your kids.
