Are you ready to dive into the world of water-loving dogs? If you’ve ever seen a pup launch itself gleefully into a lake or paddle circles in a kiddie pool, you know some dogs are practically born with fins. These breeds don’t just tolerate water—they crave it, splash in it, and sometimes even demand it. But with their passion comes responsibility: not all water play is safe, and knowing the best ways to keep your furry friend happy and healthy is essential. So grab a towel and get ready for some soggy smiles, because these are the top 20 dog breeds obsessed with water, along with tips to let them enjoy it safely.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are iconic when it comes to water obsession. Originally bred to retrieve fishing nets and game from cold Canadian waters, these dogs have waterproof coats and webbed paws that make them natural swimmers. Labs will jump into any pond, pool, or puddle without a second thought. If you want to indulge their love for water, take them to a dog-friendly beach or set up a backyard splash pool. Always supervise, though, because Labs can get so excited that they forget their own limits. Throwing floating toys or sticks turns every swim into a joyful game for them.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are closely related to Labs in their water-loving ways. With their thick, water-resistant fur and gentle disposition, Goldens are happiest when they’re swimming beside their favorite people. These dogs thrive on fetch games in a lake or river. Just remember to rinse off their fur after a swim to avoid skin irritation. Using life vests for longer swims in deep water ensures their safety, especially for older Goldens who might tire easily but don’t want to stop paddling.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is practically made for the ocean. Once a fisherman’s right-hand helper, this breed would herd fish into nets and retrieve lost tackle from the sea. Their curly, waterproof coats are more than just cute—they’re functional. Portuguese Water Dogs adore swimming, diving, and even boating. Interactive water games keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Always check their ears after water play to prevent infections, as their floppy ears can trap moisture.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, or “Chessies,” are tough, athletic, and built for water. They were bred to retrieve ducks from the icy Chesapeake Bay, so cold water is no problem for them. Their dense, oily double coat keeps them warm and dry. Chessies need lots of exercise and love activities like dock diving and swimming in safe, monitored areas. Because they’re strong and determined, always use floating toys and keep an eye on them to avoid exhaustion.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a gentle giant with a legendary reputation for water rescues. Their massive size, strong muscles, and webbed feet let them swim powerfully, even in rough surf. They’ve been known to save drowning swimmers and pull boats to shore. Newfies love family swim days and can even learn to tow kids on rafts. Make sure they have a safe, gradual entry into water due to their size, and never let them swim unsupervised.
Poodle
Believe it or not, Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers. All three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—can be found bounding through streams or splashing in puddles. Their tight, curly coats repel water, and they’re intelligent enough to pick up water games quickly. Poodles excel at dock diving and retrieving floating toys. Always trim their fur to avoid matting after water play, and keep an eye on smaller Poodles around deep water.
Irish Water Spaniel
With its curly, waterproof coat and rat-like tail, the Irish Water Spaniel is a true aquatic marvel. This breed was designed for water work—retrieving game and helping fishermen. Irish Water Spaniels are enthusiastic swimmers who love long, active days at lakes or rivers. They’re happiest when swimming with their people or playing fetch in the water. After each swim, rinse their coat to prevent matting and check their ears for any trapped moisture.
Flat-Coated Retriever
Flat-Coated Retrievers are often called the “Peter Pan” of dog breeds thanks to their playful, forever-young spirit. Their glossy black or liver coats are water-resistant, and they love nothing more than a good swim. Flat-Coats thrive on water fetch and often leap into lakes with boundless energy. Make sure they have a safe entry and exit from the water, and avoid letting them swim in very cold conditions unless they’re used to it.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Known as “Tollers,” these clever and energetic dogs were bred to attract and retrieve ducks from the water. Their webbed feet and thick coats make them excellent swimmers, and their boundless curiosity means they’ll try to swim anywhere, even in backyard ponds or fountains. Tollers love playing with floating toys and participating in water agility courses. Always dry them off well after swimming to prevent skin issues.
American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a rare but delightful breed that lives for water adventures. With a waterproof, curly coat and a compact, athletic frame, these dogs are at home in any lake or stream. They’re versatile swimmers who adore games of fetch and retrieving from water. Because of their smaller size, always supervise them in deeper water and consider using a dog life vest for extra security.
English Springer Spaniel
English Springer Spaniels are natural-born swimmers with an eager-to-please attitude. These dogs were originally bred to flush and retrieve game from wetlands, so they’re happiest when splashing through marshes or creeks. Springer Spaniels love playing fetch in water and will often dive right in. Make sure to clean and dry their ears after swimming, as their floppy ears can be prone to infections if left damp.
Curly-Coated Retriever
Curly-Coated Retrievers are one of the oldest retriever breeds, recognized for their unique, tightly curled coats that shed water easily. These dogs are independent, energetic, and thrive when given plenty of opportunities to swim. Curly-Coats enjoy water sports, dock diving, and long swims in lakes or rivers. Regular grooming helps keep their curls in top shape after water play, and always watch for signs of fatigue during long sessions.
Barbet
The Barbet is a French water dog with a shaggy, curly coat and a big heart for swimming. Traditionally used for retrieving waterfowl, Barbets are happiest when immersed in water. They love to swim, splash, and even dig in mud near water’s edge. Their dense coats need regular maintenance after water play to prevent tangling and matting. Watch them closely near deep water, especially if they’re puppies or new to swimming.
Spanish Water Dog
Spanish Water Dogs are agile and versatile, with curly coats that protect them in wet environments. They were bred for herding and water work, making them natural swimmers. Spanish Water Dogs are energetic and love games like fetch in the water or retrieving floating toys. Always supervise their water play, and ensure their coats are dried and brushed thoroughly afterward to prevent matting and skin issues.
Otterhound
The Otterhound is a rare and quirky breed with a passion for water. Bred to hunt otters in rivers and lakes, these dogs have a thick, oily double coat and webbed feet. Otterhounds love to swim, wade, and even dive underwater to retrieve toys. Their unique look and playful nature make them a joy to watch in the water. After each swim, rinse and brush their coat, and monitor for any signs of ear infections.
Boykin Spaniel
Boykin Spaniels are small but mighty, with an infectious love for water. These dogs were developed in South Carolina for duck and turkey hunting in swamps and lakes. Boykins are hardy swimmers and love participating in water sports. Their chocolate-brown coats are easy to maintain, but it’s important to dry their ears thoroughly after every swim. Boykins excel at fetch, dock diving, and even canoeing with their families.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Known as the “truffle dog” of Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo is also a water enthusiast. Originally bred as a water retriever, their curly, woolly coat keeps them dry and warm. Lagottos love swimming in lakes and rivers and are quick learners when it comes to water games. Regular grooming is essential after water play, and they should always be supervised, especially in deep or moving water.
Irish Setter
With their graceful, flowing red coats and boundless energy, Irish Setters are natural athletes who adore swimming. Bred for hunting and retrieving game from water, they are happiest when running and splashing through streams or lakes. Irish Setters love interactive water games and need plenty of exercise and stimulation. Always rinse their coats after swimming to remove debris, and keep an eye on them in strong currents.
Standard Schnauzer
Although not always thought of as a water dog, the Standard Schnauzer can surprise you with its love for swimming. With their strong legs and athletic build, they enjoy water fetch and wading in shallow streams. Schnauzers are curious and adventurous, but their wiry coats need to be dried and brushed after swims. Always introduce them to water gradually and use positive reinforcement to build their confidence.
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are hunting dogs at heart, and their love for water is no surprise. With sleek, water-resistant coats and strong muscles, GSPs can swim for long distances and retrieve from deep water. They thrive on exercise and mental stimulation, making water sports and swimming ideal activities. Supervise their water play to avoid overexertion and ensure they have a shady spot to rest afterward.
If your pup lives for splashes and swims, you’re not alone—many breeds are natural water lovers! Embracing their love for water can be a great way to keep them happy, healthy, and active. Just make sure their aquatic adventures are safe, supervised, and tailored to their comfort. Whether it’s a lake day or backyard sprinkler fun, water play is a fantastic way to bond. So grab that towel and let the water-loving fun flow!
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
