5 Dogs That Love the Beach — And 5 That Hate the Sand

Have you ever seen a dog sprinting along a shoreline, tongue out, chasing waves as if they were made of pure happiness? Or maybe you’ve witnessed a pup freeze at the edge of the sand, refusing to budge another inch. Dogs have personalities as varied as humans, especially when it comes to the beach. Some pups are born to splash, while others would rather avoid the salty chaos altogether. Let’s dive into the breeds that can’t wait to hit the sand—and those that would rather stay home and nap on the couch.

Labrador Retrievers: Born for the Beach

Labrador Retrievers are the poster dogs for beach adventures. These dogs seem to have saltwater in their souls and webbing between their toes. Labs were originally bred to help fishermen retrieve nets and catch fish, so water comes naturally to them. They’ll leap into the surf with abandon, fetch sticks for hours, and roll gleefully in the sand. Their water-resistant coats make drying off a breeze, and they don’t seem to mind getting messy. If you want a companion who will make every beach day unforgettable, a Lab is a sure bet. Watching a Lab at the beach is like watching pure joy in motion—they make it look like the shoreline was designed just for them.

Golden Retrievers: Sunshine and Sandy Paws

Golden Retrievers and beaches go together like sun and surf. Known for their boundless energy and affectionate nature, Goldens love any excuse to get wet and dirty. Their thick, water-repellent coats keep them comfortable in the waves, and their playful personalities ensure they’ll make friends with every other beachgoer—human or canine. Throw them a ball or a frisbee, and they’ll happily retrieve it from the water again and again. These dogs are naturals at swimming and can spend hours paddling alongside their favorite people. For many Golden owners, a trip to the beach is just as much about their dog’s happiness as their own.

Portuguese Water Dogs: The Ultimate Wave Riders

If beach life had a mascot, the Portuguese Water Dog would be a top contender. These curly-coated canines were bred to assist fishermen along the coast of Portugal, diving into the sea to herd fish into nets and retrieve gear. Their strong, athletic bodies and webbed feet make them powerful swimmers. At the beach, they’ll dive through waves and explore tidal pools with fearless curiosity. Portuguese Water Dogs are clever, energetic, and love a challenge—give them a job or a game, and they’re in heaven. Their enthusiasm for water is almost contagious, and it’s impossible not to smile watching them frolic in the surf.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers: Small Dogs, Big Beach Energy

Don’t let their smaller size fool you—Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have outsized love for the beach. Originally bred to lure and retrieve waterfowl, these dogs are agile, quick, and full of life. They’ll chase waves, splash in shallow water, and dig in the sand with the excitement of a child at play. Their double coat keeps them warm and dry, and their boundless curiosity means they’ll explore every inch of the shoreline. Owners often describe their Tollers as tireless when it comes to water games. For families who want a medium-sized dog with a big beach personality, these retrievers are a perfect fit.

Irish Water Spaniels: Clownish and Wave-Crazy

Irish Water Spaniels are often called the clowns of the dog world, and nowhere is their silly streak more obvious than at the beach. With their curly, water-resistant coats and whip-like tails, these spaniels are built for swimming and love to show off their athleticism. They’ll bounce through the surf, fetch anything you throw, and dig holes just because they can. Their intelligence means they’re quick to learn new water games, and their playful antics keep everyone entertained. Irish Water Spaniels are happiest when wet and muddy, and the beach is their favorite playground. Owners sometimes joke that their dogs would rather have gills than paws.

Chihuahuas: Sand Isn’t Always a Small Dog’s Friend

Tiny but mighty, Chihuahuas often have big personalities—but their size can make the beach a daunting place. The hot sand can be harsh on their delicate paws, and the noisy waves might seem overwhelming. Many Chihuahuas will hesitate to walk on unstable sand, preferring the comfort of a lap or shaded blanket. The beach can feel like a giant, unpredictable world for these little dogs, and not all of them are up for the adventure. If you do take a Chihuahua to the coast, keep things short and sweet, and always provide shade and water. For many Chis, home is where the sofa is, not the sand.

Shih Tzus: Preferring Shade Over Surf

Shih Tzus are known for their luxurious coats and regal attitudes. These lapdogs were bred for life indoors, not for sunbathing on the shore. The sand can get tangled in their fur, and the heat is often too much for their short snouts. Many Shih Tzus dislike the feeling of sand between their toes, and their owners may find them seeking out the closest patch of shade or even trying to head back to the car. Some might enjoy a cool breeze in their fur, but in general, Shih Tzus would rather be pampered indoors than wrestle with beachside elements.

Basset Hounds: Not Fans of the Heat or Hustle

Basset Hounds may have an impressive sense of smell, but their droopy bodies and heavy bones aren’t built for sprinting through sand. The hot sun can quickly wear them out, and the uneven ground of a beach can be tough on their joints. Many Bassets would much rather nap in a cool corner than try to keep up with energetic beach dogs. Their low-to-the-ground bodies also mean they pick up sand in their fur and wrinkles, which can be uncomfortable. The beach just doesn’t offer the slow-paced comforts these hounds crave.

Pugs: Beach Days Can Be a Breathless Struggle

Pugs are loved for their goofy smiles and comical antics, but their flat faces make breathing harder in hot, humid environments. The sun and sand can quickly sap their energy, and they’re prone to overheating. Most Pugs will spend more time seeking shade than chasing waves. Some may enjoy a quick stroll along the water’s edge, but long days at the beach are rarely their idea of fun. Owners should always watch their Pugs closely in the heat and keep outings short and cool. For most Pugs, a chilled treat at home sounds much better than a sandy adventure.

Afghan Hounds: Too Glamorous for the Grit

Afghan Hounds are famous for their long, silky coats and dignified appearance. At the beach, however, all that glamour can quickly turn into a tangled mess. Sand sticks to their flowing hair, and saltwater can leave their coats matted and hard to manage. Afghan Hounds often dislike getting dirty and may tiptoe around puddles or avoid wet sand entirely. While they look elegant wherever they go, the chaos of the beach just doesn’t fit their refined style. Most Afghan Hounds would much rather stay clean and comfortable than risk their beautiful locks for a romp in the surf.