Top 10 Dog Breeds That Absolutely Love Water

Some dogs are just born to make a splash—whether it’s due to their breed history, physical features, or an innate love of swimming. From classic retrievers to some surprising aquatic adventurers, here are the top 10 dog breeds that thrive in and around water.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever – The Rugged Water Pro

Tough, determined, and built for cold-water hunting, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever boasts a thick, oily coat that repels moisture and retains warmth. With a strong work ethic and a love for water-based tasks, this American original is a powerful swimmer and relentless retriever.

Portuguese Water Dog – The Ocean’s Helper

Once a fisherman’s best friend, the Portuguese Water Dog was bred to retrieve nets and deliver messages at sea. Its webbed feet and quick-drying, curly coat make it a natural swimmer. Spirited and intelligent, this breed shines in both freshwater and saltwater adventures.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever – The Little Lure

The smallest of the retriever family, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is full of energy and swimming enthusiasm. Originally bred to entice ducks within range by playing near water, this agile and intelligent breed is always ready for a dip.

Irish Water Spaniel – The Curly-Coated Swimmer

Easily recognized by its tight curls and signature “rat tail,” the Irish Water Spaniel is a rare gem in the canine world. Originally used to retrieve game from both land and water, it’s an agile and skilled swimmer that thrives in aquatic environments.

Lagotto Romagnolo – The Truffle-Hunting Swimmer

Known today for its truffle-hunting prowess, the Lagotto Romagnolo actually started as a water retriever in the wetlands of Italy. With a dense, protective coat and natural swimming ability, it still enjoys every splash it gets.

Poodle – The Underestimated Water Dog

Often associated with show rings and fancy grooming, the Standard Poodle has surprisingly aquatic roots. Bred as a water retriever, it features a water-resistant coat and high intelligence—making it an enthusiastic and tireless swim buddy.

American Water Spaniel – Compact and Capable

Don’t let the size fool you—this all-American hunting breed is versatile and fearless in the water. Its curly coat offers protection from the elements, and its love for water retrieving makes it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures near lakes or rivers.

Newfoundland – The Gentle Giant

Huge in size, soft in heart, and unmatched in strength, the Newfoundland is a legendary swimmer. With webbed feet and heroic instincts, it’s been known to rescue drowning swimmers and even pull boats. This gentle giant lives for the water.

Labrador Retriever – The Classic Splash Lover

A household favorite across the globe, the Labrador Retriever is the epitome of a water-loving dog. With webbed paws, a thick waterproof coat, and a tail like a rudder, Labs are natural swimmers. Friendly and playful, they never say no to a swim.

Golden Retriever – The Ultimate Water Dog

Topping the list is the ever-enthusiastic Golden Retriever. Known for its sunny disposition, strong retrieving instincts, and endless love for swimming, this breed is happiest when diving into a lake or paddling through the surf. If there’s water, a Golden will find it—and dive right in.

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