Finding a doggy who loves water is definitely possible. Luckily there are several breeds that were specifically bred to love water, which means you can bring your doggy with you to the ocean and he'll have no problem jumping in and having fun with you!
These doggy breeds below love the water. They were born for an aquatic adventure!
Any individual dog may love water or boat outings, but some breeds have a history soaked in sea stories and marine memories. A few of them may surprise you.
1. Golden Retriever
source: Geri Yaccino
We were developed in Scotland as a gun dog to retrieve fowl for hunters. Although bred tough for rough terrain and swimming, we yet have a gentle mouth and equally gentle spirit.
2. Labrador Retriever
source: Bev Browne
Shiver me timbers, you can’t be astonished to see me on this list. Here’s a tip about our sea legs: If you put a rubber mat on the canoe hull’s bottom, I can balance nicely and keep all paws on deck.
3. Newfoundland
source: Newfoundland Club of Seattle
We’re renowned swimmers, bred to tolerate frosty waters and work with fishermen. And with my webbed feet, water-resistant coat, and powerful stroke, I’ll have no trouble swimming ashore if we do capsize.
4. Spanish Water Dog
source: Nancy Valley
We were bred as all-around farm dogs in Spain. Our water-loving nature and athleticism allows us to boat all day, no nap needed. Just give us a chance to hop out and swim now and then.
5. Havanese
source: Joan Esworthy
Our ancestors likely came to the island of Cuba via trading ships. We became popular with Cuban and European aristocracy, and traveled aboard many a ship. And here’s a perk breeds like the Newfie can’t offer: You won’t struggle lifting me back in the boat if I bounce out, for I only weigh about 10 pounds. Hoist the sails!
6. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
source: Jessica O’Dell
Bred to retrieve waterfowl and handle rough water, I’m one of the toughest canine swimmers out there. And when you’re ready to dive into the water, I’ve got the strength and endurance for swimming, too.
Pretty interesting group of water doggies, right? Now that you know which breeds thrive best in the water, you might think about adopting one of them if you really want a water-loving pooch! They'll be your perfect match! And who would have thought that a Havanese would be a water dog?! I had no idea!
For more information on dog breeds that love the water, visit Dogster.
