Why These Dog Breeds Can’t Swim
The name “doggy paddle” may be misleading because not all dogs are natural swimmers.
Why Can’t Some Breeds Swim?
Generally, dogs that can’t swim share characteristics. For example, breeds with flat faces and short snouts have trouble keeping their face above the water. This characteristic makes it easy to get water up their nose and creates a drowning risk. Additionally, dogs with barrel-shaped bodies or long bodies and short legs can struggle to stay afloat. Dog breeds with long or double coats may struggle to swim as well. However, some species can not swim because they can not stand the shock of the cold water.
What Breeds Can’t Swim?
1. Bulldogs
Bulldogs have trouble swimming because of their flat faces, barrel-shaped bodies, and short legs. Having all three of these traits makes swimming an extreme challenge.
2. Pugs
Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have flat faces. This feature makes breathing a challenge, especially during swimming. Flat-faced breeds must tilt their heads back to keep them out of the water. This effort can cause their rear end to dip too low in the water, making swimming even harder.
3. Bull Terriers
This breed’s short legs make floating difficult. Even the Staffordshire bull terrier may struggle to swim due to their large head.
4. Basset Hounds
The basset hound is recognizable from its short legs and large heads. Both of these features make it challenging to stay afloat when swimming. Additionally, the large floppy ears are predisposed to ear infections when water gets in the ear canal.
5. Boxers
Though boxers are an athletic breed, their flat faces make swimming dangerous. Fighting to keep their face above the water can cause them to tire quickly and thus run the risk of drowning.
6. Corgies
Though your corgi may love water, they are not natural-born swimmers. This struggle is due to their barrel-shaped body and short legs.
7. Dachshunds
Just like corgies, dachshunds have long bodies and short legs. Even shallow water can tire them quickly.
8. Shih Tzus
Similar to the bulldog, Shih Tzus faceseveralf challenges when it comes to swimming. They have a short snout and short legs. Additionally, their long coat can weigh them down and cover their face, making breathing harder.
Water Safety
If you are the pet parent of a dog that struggles to swim, follow these safety tips.
- Get a doggy lifejacket
- stick to shallow water
- fence your swimming pool and install a ramp
- teach your pal to swim
- supervise your pup during their swimming excursions
- consider a kiddie or dog pool
Though it may be surprising that some dogs can’t swim, it’s true! It is important to know what characteristics make it difficult for your companion to swim so you can better keep them safe and healthy while still having lots of fun!