These Dog Breeds Love the Water

Some dogs will dip their toes in the water, while others are completely terrified of getting into any water, even a small puddle. On the other hand, some four-legged friends absolutely adore water and love to go for a splash. These dog breeds that love water developed this trait early on from hunting, retrieving, or rescuing. If you are looking for a fido that is sure to enjoy a swim at the beach and lake or even play in the rain, these breeds are perfect for you.

American Water Spaniel

This dog breed has combined traits from retrievers and spaniels, making him a cute little pup. The Americal Water Spaniel is used to working in water, from the Great Lakes to icy water.

Barbet

Henry IV hunted waterfowl with his Barbet in the 16th century, making it a friendly water-loving now breed now. It is known to be drawn to water and swampy areas, nicknamed the “mud dog.”

Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel hunts wild turkey and waterfowl in the swampy marshes of South America. This medium-sized spaniel is eager to join the fish in the water and will surely outswim you.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

This Retriever has an oily waterproof coat, perfect for water activities. These dogs are also strong and have a lot of endurance, born to run throughout the Chesapeake Bay.

Curly-Coated Retriever

This breed is one of the oldest retrieving dogs and is often referred to as the “thinking man’s retriever.” This dog breed is known to retrieve even in the coldest, iciest water.

English Setter

The English Setter is energetic and happiest when splashing in the water. This dog breed is great at swimming and can glide for very long distances with proper training.

Flat-Coated Retriever

The coat on the flat-coated retriever protects it from intense weather and ice-cold water. The dog was bred to hunt on land and water and is a great companion to take on your next hunting trip.

Irish Water Spaniel

One of the largest spaniel breeds, this dog’s coat is naturally water repellant to keep it safe and warm from cold water. The “clown of the spaniel family” is best known for hunting waterfowl.

Labrador Retriever

This breed is well-known and extremely happy and loveable. Labrador Retrievers were bred to retrieve waterfowl, even under difficult conditions. The lab is a great addition to your family and hunting trip.

Lagotto Romagnolo

This ancient breed was thought to be the first dog breed that all dogs have descended from. They were used for hunting waterfowl and today are used for hunting precious truffles.

Newfoundland

Although large and in charge, this dog breed is still agile in water and a natural swimmer. He has life-saving instincts and a large lung capacity, making him a great safety pup.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The smallest of the retrievers, this breed is great for work and play. They were bred to lure waterfowl and retrieve the dead birds from the water.

Otterhound

This dog breed was originally bred to hunt otters. They have a rough double coat and webbed feet, making them perfect for gliding through water.

Portuguese Water Dog

The web-footed breed was originally developed to herd fish into nets. They were also experts in swimming and retrieving broken nets and lost equipment in the water.

Spanish Water Dog

This dog is great for herding and swimming, as it was originally bred for both tasks. They were born to hunt both on water and land, making them excellent swimmers.

Standard Poodle

In early France, the poodle was used for more than just elegant looks. The breed was used as a waterfowl retriever and is an excellent swimming dog.

These canine companions are sure to be great in your backyard pool or to tag along on your next hunting trip.