12 Dog Breeds That Are Expert Swimmers (and 5 Fastest Breeds on Ground)

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Labrador Retriever being active
GerMai/PixaBay

Dogs have an innate ability to excel in various activities, whether it’s swimming in the water or sprinting across the ground. Some breeds are natural-born swimmers, with skills honed over generations of water-based tasks like retrieving or water rescue. Other breeds are built for speed, showcasing their agility and power on land. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, these 12 expert swimmers and 5 speedy breeds are the perfect companions for your adventures, whether in the water or on the track.

1. Newfoundland – The Water Rescuer

Newfoundland standing in snow
Wirestock/Freepik

Newfoundlands are renowned for their natural swimming ability. These gentle giants were bred for water rescue, making them experts in navigating cold, rough waters. With their thick, water-resistant coat and webbed feet, Newfoundlands can swim for hours without tiring. They’re particularly known for their calm and patient nature. If you’re looking for a reliable and capable swimming partner, Newfoundland is an ideal choice. Their love for the water is unmatched, and their strength in swimming is one of the key traits that make them great rescue dogs.

2. Labrador Retriever – The Versatile Swimmer

A Chocolate Labrador Retriever playing in shallow water.
Thijs van der Weide/Pexels

Labrador Retrievers are not only friendly and loyal, but they are also fantastic swimmers. Originally bred to retrieve waterfowl, Labs have webbed feet, a strong build, and an innate love for the water. Their swimming ability is well-suited for everything from recreational swims to competitive water sports. Labs are often seen in lakes, pools, and beaches. Whether it’s fetching a ball from the water or taking a leisurely swim, the Labrador Retriever excels in the water. Their versatility and friendly demeanor make them great family dogs.

3. Portuguese Water Dog – The Aquatic Worker

Portuguese Water Dog standing in shallow water near a dock
Biggyh/Reddit

Portuguese Water Dogs were bred specifically to work alongside fishermen in rough seas. With their curly, water-resistant coat and webbed paws, they are expert swimmers. These dogs excel at retrieving, diving, and working in water environments. Their agility and endurance in the water make them perfect for water sports or rescue operations. Portuguese Water Dogs are not only skilled swimmers but also intelligent and energetic. If you enjoy water activities, this breed’s natural swimming talent will keep you entertained and active by your side. 

4. Irish Water Spaniel – The Agile Swimmer

Irish Water Spaniel standing near water.
Full-Mulberry5018/Reddit

The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the best swimmers among spaniels, with a curly coat that protects them from water. Known for their agility and intelligence, these dogs are excellent in water-based tasks like retrieving and swimming through rough waters. Their webbed feet and strong legs make them quick and efficient swimmers. Irish Water Spaniels love to dive and fetch objects from the water, making them a great choice for people who enjoy watersports or swimming with their dog. Their strong work ethic and enthusiasm for the water make them perfect partners for aquatic adventures.

5. American Water Spaniel – The Enthusiastic Swimmer

American Water Spaniel
Ray billcliff/pexels

The American Water Spaniel is an energetic and versatile dog breed, well-suited for both land and water activities. These dogs are skilled swimmers and excel in retrieving tasks. With their water-resistant coat and love for the water, they are ideal companions for outdoor activities near lakes or rivers. American Water Spaniels are frequently used for hunting and are known for their strong swimming skills in retrieving waterfowl. The American Water Spaniel’s natural swimming skills make it an ideal companion for water-loving adventurers.

6. Boykin Spaniel – The Water-Loving Hunter

John Wright/Pixabay

The Boykin Spaniel, known for its friendly demeanor, also has strong swimming abilities. These dogs were originally bred for hunting, specifically to retrieve waterfowl from ponds and lakes. Boykin Spaniels are agile swimmers and love spending time in the water. They are energetic and thrive on regular outdoor activity, making them a great companion for anyone who enjoys water-based activities. Their natural swimming and retrieving skills, coupled with their love for activity, make them perfect for families or individuals who enjoy aquatic sports.

7. Barbet – The Athletic Swimmer

Barbet
Bigandt/123RF

The Barbet is an athletic, water-loving breed with a curly coat. These dogs have an impressive love for the water, and their webbed feet make them strong swimmers. Barbets are often used for waterfowl hunting due to their ability to swim efficiently and retrieve from the water. Their playful personality and enthusiasm for swimming make them a fun companion for anyone who enjoys aquatic activities. The Barbet’s excellent swimming ability, combined with its friendly and affectionate nature, makes it an ideal companion for families who enjoy time by the water.

8. Lagotto Romagnolo – The Water Retriever

Lagotto Romagnolo in a grassy field
choxyltd/PixaBay

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a breed originally developed to retrieve waterfowl, and their swimming skills reflect that history. These dogs are known for their love of water, and they excel in swimming and diving. With a thick, curly coat that helps protect them while in the water, they are well-suited for aquatic tasks. The Lagotto Romagnolo loves water activities, and its energetic, enthusiastic nature makes it a great companion for those who enjoy time in the water. Whether retrieving objects from the lake or simply swimming for fun, this breed will thrive in aquatic environments.

9. Curly-Coated Retriever – The Energetic Swimmer

Curly-Coated Retriever carrying a bird.
Stoicgundogs/Reddit

The Curly-Coated Retriever is an energetic and versatile dog breed that excels in water activities. With a curly, water-resistant coat, these dogs are built for swimming. They love to retrieve and are often used in hunting and water sports. The Curly-Coated Retriever’s strong swimming skills and high energy levels make them great for families who enjoy water-based adventures. Whether it’s swimming in lakes or rivers or engaging in water sports, this breed is up for the challenge. Their playful nature and love for water make them perfect companions for active owners. 

10. Flat-Coated Retriever – The Water-Ready Companion

Flat-Coated Retriever
RitaE /Pixabay

Flat-Coated Retrievers are celebrated for their cheerful nature and strong affinity for water. Their long, shiny coats and webbed feet make them natural swimmers. They enjoy activities such as retrieving, diving, and swimming in lakes or oceans. Originally bred for waterfowl hunting, they excel in water sports and activities. The Flat-Coated Retriever’s friendly demeanor and eagerness to swim make them great companions for water lovers. Whether you’re near a pool or out on a boat, this breed is sure to enjoy the water alongside you. Their playful nature adds fun to any aquatic adventure.

11. American Cocker Spaniel – The Water Enthusiast

American Cocker Spaniel sitting on a wooden bench.
Wildehilde2002/Pixabay

The American Cocker Spaniel may be small, but it has an excellent swimming ability. Bred to retrieve waterfowl, they excel in swimming and diving. These dogs are energetic and love playing in water. The American Cocker Spaniel’s friendly disposition and enthusiasm for the water make them a popular choice for families. Whether swimming in a pool, lake, or river, this breed will join you for some fun in the water. Their strong swimming skills, combined with their affectionate nature, make them an ideal companion for outdoor water adventures.

12. English Springer Spaniel – The Water-Focused Retriever

English Springer Spaniel
John Baker/Pexels

English Springer Spaniels are excellent swimmers and have a natural affinity for water. Bred for retrieving in aquatic environments, these dogs are skilled at swimming and retrieving waterfowl. Their webbed feet and athletic build make them strong swimmers. The English Springer Spaniel’s energy and enthusiasm for the water make them great companions for water-loving families. Whether it’s a swim in the lake or retrieving a toy from the water, this breed’s swimming ability will ensure hours of fun by the water. 

13. Greyhound – The Speed King

Greyhound
herbert2512/Pixabay

Greyhounds are the speed champions of the dog world, reaching impressive speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. Their slender body and long legs are built for sprinting, making them exceptional at high-speed runs. Originally bred for racing, they are natural sprinters who excel in short bursts of speed. If you’re looking for a dog that can outrun most other breeds, the Greyhound is the ultimate choice for speed on land. Their impressive agility and speed make them perfect for racing and other fast-paced activities.

14. Saluki – The Swift Sprinter

Saluki
Elisabetta Bellomi/Pixabay

Salukis are capable of reaching speeds of up to 42 miles per hour. Their slender build and long legs allow them to sprint at incredible speeds, making them one of the fastest breeds on land. Originally bred for hunting in desert environments, Salukis have a natural instinct for running. Their speed and agility make them perfect companions for active owners who enjoy running and outdoor sports. With their graceful form and speed, Salukis are ideal for people who want a fast dog that can keep up with a fast-paced lifestyle.

15. Whippet – The Agile Racer

Brindle Whippet
Pixabay

Whippets are smaller than Greyhounds but are still incredibly fast, capable of reaching speeds of 35 miles per hour. Their compact size, combined with their long legs and muscular frame, makes them excellent sprinters. Whippets are often described as “mini Greyhounds” because they share similar physical traits and speed capabilities. These dogs excel in short bursts of speed, making them ideal for races and sprinting competitions. Whippets are known for their agility and speed, making them great companions for owners who enjoy active, high-energy sports.

16. Vizsla – The Speedy Hunter

Vizsla
chepté cormani/pexels

Vizslas are athletic dogs that can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. With their lean build and high energy levels, they are exceptional sprinters and long-distance runners. Originally bred as hunting dogs, Vizslas are known for their agility and speed in the field. Whether running alongside you on a jog or sprinting in a race, Vizslas can keep up with their owners effortlessly. Their high stamina and speed make them perfect for active lifestyles and outdoor adventures. Vizslas thrive in dynamic environments and make excellent companions for outdoor activities.

17. Doberman Pinscher – The Fast and Fierce Runner

Doberman Pinscher
Patstatic/Pixabay

Doberman Pinschers are not only strong and protective but also fast, capable of reaching speeds of up to 32 miles per hour. With their sleek, muscular build and high energy, Dobermans are natural sprinters. Their speed and agility make them ideal for activities like agility courses or running alongside their owners. If you’re looking for a fast dog with a powerful presence, the Doberman Pinscher offers the perfect combination of speed and strength, making them a versatile and energetic breed for active individuals or families.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Dog Follow
Giant Design/Canva.com

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heartwarming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!

Related Posts

Discover America’s 15 most beloved dog breeds! From loyal protectors to cuddly companions, see what makes them so special.
Discover 20 loyal dog breeds that will love you unconditionally and always stick by your side, from Golden Retrievers to Huskies.
Discover why dogs are the perfect companions for introverts, offering love, comfort, routine, and support in ways that make them truly special.
Discover 10 dog & 10 cat breeds needing expert grooming care—learn top tips to keep your pet stylish, healthy, and truly charming!
Discover 12 expressive dog breeds that show emotions through their faces and 5 that communicate through body language.
Discover 10 apartment-friendly dog breeds for 2025 and learn how proper training helps even 5 wild breeds adapt to urban living.!!!!
Discover the best hiking dogs and the ones that prefer lounging at home. Find the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures!
Looking for a dog that loves to cuddle or one that prefers active outings? Here are 10 small dog breeds that love to curl up in your lap and 5 breeds that enjoy an adventure.
Dogs bring joy, comfort, and companionship, turning even the hardest days around with their calming presence and unconditional love.

Leave a Comment