While some dogs love splashing around, many others just aren’t fans of getting wet. Whether due to physical build, temperament, or specific health needs, some breeds would rather stay dry than dive in. These dogs often have unique characteristics—like short legs, thick coats, or flat faces, that make swimming difficult. Knowing if your dog falls into this category helps you respect their preferences and keeps them safe around water.
1. Pug
Pugs, with their distinctive flat faces, aren’t naturally inclined to swim. Their breathing difficulties stem from brachycephalic traits like narrow airways and elongated soft palates. Pugs often experience stress in water due to these challenges. Despite their adaptability on land, water is a different story. Pugs may panic or struggle if they feel submerged or out of control. They also tend to overheat quickly, meaning they need extra care even near water. To keep them safe, consider shallow water play, but always supervise and support them.
2. Dachshund
With their elongated bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are adorable but not water-ready. This breed struggles with balance in the water, often finding it hard to stay horizontal. If you introduce water suddenly, your Dachshund might become fearful. However, if you introduce them to shallow water gradually and positively, they can enjoy a little splash now and then. Their cautious nature means they may need extra encouragement and reassurance. Keep them in shallow water where they can easily stand, reducing their anxiety and helping them feel secure.
3. Greyhound
Greyhounds are built for land speed, not aquatic adventures. Their slender frames and low body fat make them sensitive to cold, which can make water play uncomfortable. Additionally, their long, thin legs can cause balance issues. Your Greyhound often dislikes the unsteadiness water brings, especially without a familiar surface beneath them. While they may enjoy a run along the shore, diving in isn’t their preference. If exposed to water, ensure it’s warm and shallow, with you close by to support them.
4. Hairless Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested breed is sensitive to cold due to its lack of fur, making water less appealing. Their low body fat can also cause them to feel chilled quickly in water, so prolonged exposure isn’t ideal. With little protection from the elements, they’re more susceptible to temperature changes, especially in cooler water. Although they may appreciate a warm bath, they rarely seek out natural bodies of water. So, if you own a Chinese crested dog, go for land activities, as they’re often more enjoyable, making cozy snuggle time or play indoors more appealing than a swim.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus’ long, flowing coats make water an inconvenience rather than fun. Their fur becomes heavy and tangled when wet, which can be uncomfortable. They also dislike water getting on their faces and in their ears, which can happen easily when swimming. Water therapy may benefit your dog, but in general, Shih Tzus hate natural water settings. If swimming is necessary, a shorter coat can help reduce discomfort. However, for most Shih Tzus, staying dry is preferable, allowing them to enjoy cozy, land-based activities.
6. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds’ low bodies and short legs make them poorly suited to swimming. With their unique body structure, they tend to adopt a vertical posture in water, making it difficult to propel themselves efficiently. This posture can lead to tiring quickly and struggling to stay afloat. Your Basset Hound will prefer observing water activities rather than participating, especially due to their floppy ears, which are prone to infections. Keeping them dry is often a safer and more comfortable choice, allowing them to enjoy life as loyal companions on solid ground.
7. Maltese
Maltese dogs often experience respiratory issues as they age, making strenuous activities like swimming potentially dangerous. Their delicate tracheas can collapse if overexerted, especially when breathing becomes labored in water. While young, healthy Maltese dogs might tolerate shallow water play, older Maltese are more at risk. Their small size makes them susceptible to cold as well. So, if you want to introduce water play, ensure it is brief and closely monitored. A safer option for these little dogs is keeping them dry, allowing them to stay comfortable and healthy.
8. Pomeranian
Pomeranians have thick, fluffy coats that act like sponges in water, weighing them down. Their small bodies float easily but offer little resistance against water currents, causing discomfort. This breed’s high-maintenance coat requires daily brushing, and getting it wet often complicates grooming further. While your pomeranian can play near water, full submersion often makes them uneasy. Keeping your Pomeranian dry preserves their beautiful coats and keeps them more comfortable. They’re naturally suited for land-based activities, where their lively personalities can shine.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies have delicate, silky fur that tangles easily when wet, which can make water play more of a hassle than a joy. Their small stature means they get cold quickly, and they often avoid situations that leave them damp or chilly. Most Yorkies even dislike bathing, preferring to stay clean and dry. You may find your Yorkshire terrier enjoying water therapy, but natural water settings are rarely appealing. Stick to dry land for Yorkies, where their adventurous nature can thrive without the discomfort of wet fur.
10. Bulldog
Bulldogs, with their broad chests and flat faces, are poorly suited for swimming. Their short legs struggle to keep them afloat, and their flat faces make it hard to breathe in the water. Even shallow water can pose a risk. So always keep your Bulldog on secure footing around water. While some Bulldogs might play along the shore, they usually prefer land-based activities that suit their stocky build and low energy levels. You should avoid deep water, opting for activities Bulldogs can enjoy safely and confidently on land.
11. Chow Chow
Chow Chows’ dense, double coats can absorb large amounts of water, making swimming tiring and difficult. Their short legs contribute to their discomfort as they struggle to stay buoyant and move smoothly. For many Chow Chows, water play is more exhausting than enjoyable, so they often prefer staying dry. If you want your Chow Chow to participate in water activities, keep their involvement brief and supervised. Their natural habitat is solid ground, where they can display their calm, dignified personalities without the hassle of a soaked coat.
12. Corgi
Corgis have short legs and long bodies, making swimming awkward and tiring. Your Corgi may enjoy shallow water. However, they often avoid deep areas where their legs can’t touch the ground. Their affectionate, loyal nature means they may stay close to you near water but will often avoid it if possible. For safety, keep your Corgi in areas where they feel secure. They are known to be more comfortable and confident on land, where they can play and bond with you without the challenges that water poses.
13. Bichon Frise
With fluffy coats and a love for companionship, Bichons prefer staying close to you on dry land. Water can quickly chill them, and their fine fur takes time to dry. While Bichons may tolerate shallow water play, they usually prefer cozy activities indoors. Their preference for dry land aligns with their social personalities. Bichons are often happiest at home or on short, enjoyable walks rather than venturing into water. This breed thrives when their needs for comfort and companionship are met.
14. Boxer
Boxers’ muscular frames and flat faces make swimming challenging, as they often struggle to stay horizontal. Their bodies aren’t built for buoyancy, so they may feel unsteady and prefer staying dry. While your Boxer may enjoy splashing around, they are generally not strong swimmers. Encouraging gentle water play in shallow areas might work, but most Boxers are happiest with active play on land. Your Boxer is built for energy, not for water. So, make sure to keep your dog dry and avoid encounters with water.
15. Doberman
Dobermans have broad chests and muscular frames that give them a naturally intimidating look. However, these characteristics can also hinder them in water. With a tendency to feel off-balance, they often avoid deep water, preferring to stay on land. You can train your Doberman to swim, but it requires patience and a gradual approach. Their natural agility on land makes them best suited for dry environments. Water can cause them stress. So, it’s safe to respect their preferences and focus on land-based activities that match their physical abilities.