It was a perfect summer day. Tom opened the sliding glass door, stepped outside, and opened the gate to the pool. A blur zipped by as his Labrador Retriever took a spectacular running leap into the pool. His Greyhound followed and settled himself in his favorite lounge chair at a sedate pace.
Some dogs love the water. Others, not so much. All dogs can learn to swim, assuming they’re healthy enough to do so. Some, though, need a little extra help. If your lifestyle takes you to places where there are large bodies of water, and you want your dog there with you, they need to learn how to swim. Your dog will enjoy swimming or boating with you, and they will stay safe if they happen to fall into the water.
Who Wants to Go for a Swim?
“I Do!”
Some dogs love water. They’re almost perfect swimmers from the start. As soon as they hit the water, their legs start paddling, and they seem to know what to do instinctively, without much coaching. Some dogs were originally bred to work in water, helping hunters, fishers, and first responders. These dogs’ bodies are designed for swimming, and their coats are more water-resistant.
Who are these dogs? Which breeds have swimming in their DNA? Here are a few:
- Retrievers: Labrador, Golden, Chesapeake Bay
- Spaniels: American Water, Irish Water, Boykin
- Water Dogs: Portuguese and Spanish
- Setters: Irish and English
- Newfoundland
- Standard Poodle
“I Don’t!”
Meanwhile, back on dry land, there are dogs for whom water holds little appeal. Much of what makes these dogs less than ideal swimmers has to do with body characteristics. Short legs with long bodies like Dachshunds and heavy, compact bodies like bulldogs make it harder to stay afloat and propel the body. Dogs with flat faces like pugs often have breathing problems. “Deep-chested” dogs, like Dobermans, struggle to keep their back ends from sinking.
Who are these dogs? Which breeds need more help? Here are a few:
- Pug, French Bulldog (breathing issues)
- Dachshund, Basset Hound (long bodies, short legs)
- Hairless Chinese Crested (little or no hair to insulate their bodies}
- Doberman, Boxer (deeper-chested)
- Chihuahua, Pekingese, Yorkshire Terrier (smaller bodies)
- Bulldog (heavy, compact body)
These dogs can learn to swim, but it will take more time and effort on your part. If you have a pool in your backyard or take your dog anywhere near water, it’s best if they know how to swim for no other reason than their safety.

There Are Exceptions
Being on one list or the other does not guarantee that your dog will follow the breed. Your retriever might be afraid of the water. Your pug might do well. Just pay attention to how your dog reacts and adjust your training accordingly.
Safety First
Before you start teaching your dog to swim, there are some essential things to consider to protect the dog’s health and safety. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for you and your dog. No one wants it to be a source of danger or illness.
Life Vests
Whether your dog is a natural swimmer or one who needs as much help as they can get, a life vest is crucial. An enthusiastic dog may jump into dangerous water, and even the best swimmer is no match for strong ocean currents. Also, while learning, some dogs paddle with only their front legs while the back legs sink. A vest will keep these dogs’ backs level so they can learn to paddle with all four legs.
Find a vest that fits your dog snugly. You certainly don’t want them to slip out of it in the water. If you can find one, select a vest with a handle on the back to make it easier for you to grab and pull them to safety.
What’s in the Water
If your dog is swimming in something other than a pool, be aware of what may be in that water: dangerous animals, bacteria, parasites, or chemicals that can harm or sicken your dog. Whatever is in the water will get on the dog’s fur and skin, or they may swallow it.
Swimming Lessons
The learning experience should be as positive as possible. Even natural swimmers need a lesson or two, especially for safety. You don’t want them to develop unsafe habits. Other dogs may be afraid and need to move at a slow, gradual pace.
Here’s a basic teaching process that you can modify to fit your dog’s needs:
Getting Started
Introduce the dog to shallow water, like in a kiddy pool, so the dog has an easy and safe escape. You can later move to deeper water. Teach them how to get in and out of the water and use commands to go down the pool steps and climb out.
Learning How to Swim
Swim lessons involve being in the water with your dog supporting their back legs and guiding them through the water. Whether you’re teaching a puppy or an adult dog, it’s pretty much the same approach. Know your dog and give as much guidance and support as they need.
If your dog hesitates when it’s time to enter the water, encourage them with praise and maybe a toy or treat. It may help to have your dog see another dog who is comfortable in the water. Let the dog ease into the water with you supporting them as they start to paddle. Later, make sure they know where and how to leave the water.
A Parting Reminder
Some dogs can’t wait to get into the water and have a blast. Others are less impressed. But all of them can learn to swim if they’re healthy. A good life vest will help keep any dog safe in the water, but your attention, patience, and support are most important.
Teaching your dog to swim will open opportunities to include your dog in your activities. It’s a great form of exercise, and even if it’s not their absolute favorite thing to do, they can be with you and not feel left out.