15 Webbed Feet Dogs Breeds That Can Swim

1. Labrador Retriever

Due to their webbed feet, Labrador Retrievers can swim in large waterbodies and even against strong currents. The webbing is a breed standard; Labradors without webbed feet are often disqualified from dog shows.

The breed was developed to become excellent swimmers, often helping in rescue missions. But, the webbing is not just for swimming; it also serves as a layer of insulation against cold. The toes work as a snowshoe in extremely cold temperatures, a characteristic relatively rare in other dog breeds.

2. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are dogs with webbed toes that were primarily developed to retrieve seabirds from the ocean. The hunter would shoot the waterfowl from a distance, which the dog then retrieved.

Despite their natural ability to swim, these retriever dogs should be gradually introduced to the activity. If the pet has joint problems, it should be wearing a life jacket to avoid drowning.

While introducing the retriever to water for the first time, make sure that you get in the water first to assure the dog that the water is completely safe.

3. Newfoundland

Native to modern-day Canada, the Newfoundland is an intelligent working breed. Created to assist fishermen, the breed excels as a water rescue dog; its insulated coat and webbed paws come in handy while swimming.

Considered one of the largest dog breeds, the Newfoundland is popular as a household pet due to its kind and gentle nature. The dog provides companionship and is friendly with kids.

While these dogs are incredibly cautious around people, making sure they are not hurting them with their massive size, the breed is an altogether different beast in water. In fact, there was an incident in recorded history where a single Newfoundland dog rescued 63 sailors from a shipwreck. Even the great military leader Napoleon Bonaparte wasn't immune to their charm; it's believed that during an escape attempt from an island, Napoleon accidentally got knocked overboard when a Newfoundland saved him.

4. Portuguese Water Dog

For Portuguese Water Dogs, their webbed feet are a unique feature that improves their swimming ability. This physical adaptation comes from their historical role as working dogs for Portuguese fishermen. As their webbed toes allow them to push through water with less resistance, these dogs are highly effective at retrieving fishing nets, delivering messages between boats, and herding fish into nets.

The webbing between their toes acts like a natural paddle by increasing the surface area of their paws. The shape and design of their legs can help the breed achieve strong propulsion with each stroke while maintaining agility and stability in the water.

In addition to aiding in swimming, webbed feet are also valuable for providing traction on slippery surfaces, a practical feature for dogs working around wet docks or boats.

5. Irish Water Spaniel

Irish Water Spaniels are exceptional swimmers, a trait that aligns with their history as waterfowl retrievers. These dogs were bred to assist hunters by retrieving ducks and other game from lakes, rivers, and marshes. The breed's natural affinity for water is complemented by its athletic build and specialized physical features.

A key factor in their swimming prowess is their webbed feet. The webbing between their toes increases the surface area of their paws, enabling them to generate more force with each stroke.

In addition to their webbed feet, their dense coat is water-resistant, which keeps them buoyant and warm even in cold water.

6. Golden Retriever

As a hunting retriever breed, Golden Retrievers are designed to move easily across rough terrains, with water serving as their expertise. Like most swimmer breeds, these dogs possess webbing between their paws that serve as paddles while swimming.

Besides their contribution to swimming, webbed feet are also necessary for a dog to dig comfortably. However, webbed feet aren't just about benefits, they also come with a few drawbacks.

For instance, the webbing is vulnerable to stretches or injuries, especially when they are traveling across rough surfaces. Likewise, the area between the paws, where the webbing is normally located, can also harbor bacteria or parasites, that may be challenging to notice.

7. Otterhound

An extremely rare breed, the current Otterhound population in the world in less than 800; this makes them rarer than pandas. Due to their rarity, a single Otterhound puppy can cost up to five thousand dollars.

The first Otterhounds were bred as scent-hounds to track and hunt otters. And, due to their immense success in the task, the population of otters significantly dropped. This led to a reduced breed of the Otterhound, causing a drastic fall in their numbers.

By the late 1970s, there were only nine packs of these dogs remaining in the world, causing a push for higher breeding. While their population is still significant, recent activism for adopting Otterhounds as housepets has shown some positive signs for the future.

8. Dachshund

Dachshunds are renowned for their sausage-like bodies and tiny legs. But, what many fail to notice is their ability to swim despite their physical structure which doesn't favor the activity.

Although Dachshunds have webbed feet like most swimmer breeds, they lack the stamina to swim for a long time. Experts have even cautioned pet parents to only give them supervised swimming time to avoid them from drowning.

On the other hand, vets recommend swimming as a healthy activity for Dachshunds, though the time should not be limited and supervised by a human.

9. German Shorthaired Pointer

As its name suggests, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a pointing dog. Developed to flush out prey, these dogs are known to stand still when they spot prey, pointing their heads in the direction of the prey to alert hunters.

German Shorthaired are often adored for their focus while hunting. Due to their webbed feet, these canines are also able to navigate easily across waters.

But, swimming isn't just a part of their work life. These German dogs naturally love to swim, especially during summer. However, you should make a plan to gradually allow the dog to swim, making sure that they are obedient and patient.

10. Weimaraner

Although not as common as Golden Retrievers or Bulldogs, Weimaraners have their distinct charm. Their silver-gray coat is highly valued in the dog community, while their blue-gray eyes give them a unique appearance.

Often referred to as the "Gray Ghost," this breed's athletic build is vital for its allure. Beyond their looks, Weimaraners are intelligent, loyal, and energetic; they make ideal companions for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Similarly, a notable trait of Weimaraners is their natural swimming ability. Originally bred to hunt large game and retrieve waterfowl, they possess muscular bodies and webbed feet that make them efficient swimmers.

11. Brittany Spaniel

Considered one of the best bird dogs, the Brittany Spaniel isn't your average household dog. Blessed with an energy level that outmatches most breeds, these dogs are notorious for their ability to work for hours without needing rest.

As we've mentioned already, Brittany Spaniels are not for beginners. They tend to develop an attitude and sometimes refuse to follow commands. Also, these dogs don't react particularly well to rude tones or harsh words. 

These Spaniels are energetic by nature; they require extensive and patient training along with hours of daily exercise. If you're not willing to put in the work, it's best not to adopt a Brittany Spaniel.

12. Poodle (Standard)

A fancy breed, Poodles are show dogs that also serve as the national dog of France. Although the breed was initially developed to retrieve birds, its beauty soon made it a luxury pet for richer households.

Apart from their swimming abilities, Poodles are the most common dogs to feature in dog shows. Further, their thick layer of fur can be styled in multiple hairstyles, each with its unique charm.

Besides the Standard Poodle, you can also purchase or adopt a Miniature Poodle or a Toy Poodle. These Poodle varieties are mostly popular among city dwellers with limited living space and wealthy dog lovers, at the same tim.

13. Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog, or SWD, is a versatile and hardworking breed with a history rooted in rural Spain. Originally bred as a herding and water-retrieving dog, this breed played a crucial role in assisting farmers and fishermen.

In recent years, the Spanish Water Dog has gained popularity as a pet due to its affectionate and energetic nature. These dogs form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent companions. Similarly, their hypoallergenic coat makes them appealing, especially for people with allergies.

A standout feature of the SWD is its swimming ability; combined with its agility and enthusiasm for water, these dogs are excellent swimmers. Whether retrieving objects from lakes or participating in water sports, the SWD's aquatic skills highlight its heritage as a versatile working dog.

14. Vizsla

As a naturally athletic and energetic dog, Vizsla can swim for extended periods, often up to 30 minutes or more. The breed's endurance comes from their history as hunting dogs, where they retrieved game from water and navigated marshy terrains. With proper training and conditioning, some Vizslas may even swim longer in safe conditions.

At the same time, their love for water is an innate trait. Vizslas are not only strong swimmers but also enthusiastic participants in water activities, whether it’s fetching toys or accompanying their owners during kayaking or paddleboarding.

In pop culture, Vizslas are admired for their athleticism and affectionate nature. Their photogenic appearance has made them popular in commercials and films, symbolizing an active and adventurous lifestyle.

15. Barbet

Despite sharing the name, Barbet dogs are not related to Barbet birds. The term "Barbet" for the dog likely comes from the French word barbe, meaning beard, referring to their distinctive facial hair. This name similarity is purely coincidental and unrelated to the tropical birds.

With its history as a waterfowl retriever in France, this breed is an experienced swimmer and navigator of marshy terrains. The dog's thick water-resistant coat makes it well-suited for retrieving game from water.