For many dog owners, bathtime is a dreaded affair. When it comes to the owners of water dogs, however, it’s actually something the dogs look forward to! There’s a whole category of dog breeds that not only love the water but were bred to swim strongly. This complete water dog list will show off the most popular water dog breeds, and what you’ll want to know about each of them.
What Are Water Dogs?
Water dogs are canines that were originally bred to work in the water. Many were bred to help hunters by retrieving waterfowl and other game from lakes, rivers, and ponds.
Most water dog breeds have special curly-haired coats that repel water, and some even have webbed feet, which makes them even stronger and more efficient swimmers! These breeds are also incredibly active and need plenty of exercise to keep up with their energetic lifestyles.
American Water Spaniel
In the 1800s, hunters in Wisconsin developed a stunning new dog breed called the American Water Spaniel. They wanted a dog breed that could retrieve game not just on land, but in water, as well. In fact, American Water Spaniels were even able to jump out of boats to bring back ducks and other waterfowl their owners had shot.
While the breed nearly went extinct in the 1940s, efforts were made to bring it back to popularity. Afterward, this breed became so popular that it was even named the official state dog of Wisconsin in 1986!
Spanish Water Dog
Most water dogs are considered sporting dogs, but the Spanish Water Dog is unique. This large dog breed is actually part of the herding group because they were originally bred to herd and protect various kinds of livestock.
Despite its name, the Spanish Water Dog isn’t a true water dog, but they are still very strong swimmers who love the water! These dogs are highly intelligent and are eager to please, so they are quite easy to train.
Wetterhoun
The Wetterhoun, also known as the Frisian Water Dog, is one of the medium to large water dog breeds. This dog was developed in the Netherlands, where it was used to hunt otters. During World War II, the dog was nearly wiped out, but a few dedicated breeders were able to bring back this determined and majestic breed.
Today, this water dog breed is not just popular among hunters for retrieving waterfowl, but it also makes a wonderful guard dog! While they are very protective, they are not aggressive, so they are well-suited to families with children.
Poodle
Many people think of Poodles as nothing more than show dogs, because they have a rather fancy appearance. However, Poodles were actually bred for hard work, and they are both determined and highly intelligent.
Historically, they retrieved game from the water for hunters, but today they can be found working in agility competitions, competing as show dogs, and functioning as companions. The Poodle comes in four different sizes; standard, medium (although not recognized everywhere), miniature, and toy.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo originated in Italy, where they were used to retrieve game from marshy areas. They have the dense curly coat that is typical of most water dogs. However, their purpose has evolved into something much more unique over time.
Today, they are recognized as being the only dog breed that is specifically used to search for truffles, a special kind of mushroom that is considered a delicacy. Their amazing nose can sniff out these mushrooms that are then sold for a great amount of money.
Pudelpointer
The Pudelpointer is a German water dog breed. Unlike most water dogs, however, the Pudelpointer does not have a curly or dense coat. They were crossed between German hunting pointers and English pointers, resulting in a medium-sized dog with great versatility in all sorts of skills.
They are mainly used as gundogs, and are revered for their determination. These dogs need lots of exercise, but they are devoted pets that are also easy to train.
Portuguese Water Dog
If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed, then look no further than the Portuguese Water Dog! This medium-sized breed’s curly coat doesn’t shed at all, making them a favorite among owners with allergies.
The Portuguese Water Dog has a curly coat that repels water, and their webbed feet make them one of the strongest swimmers in the dog world. These dogs are incredibly active, and they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Cantabrian Water Dog
The Cantabrian Water Dog originated in Spain, where they were popular among fishermen. They worked as lifeguards, saving men who had fallen from boats, as well as carrying ropes or retrieving fish in the water. They have a distinctly curly coat which has earned them the nickname “Wool Dog.” These dogs are known for being gentle and affectionate creatures that fit well into just about any family!
Source: Chili The Border Collie/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0
Barbet
Like most water dogs, the Barbet was bred to retrieve waterfowl and game from the water. As a result, they have a dense, curly coat that repels water, as well as webbed feet to aid their strong swimming abilities. Today, they are an incredibly popular breed in France, where they excel in agility competitions.
This medium-sized dog hates to be alone, and would much rather spend all of its time with its beloved owners. While they get along well with children, this is an active breed that needs an outlet for its energy!
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the best water dog breeds for active families. They are affectionate and fun-loving, and love to accompany their owners on hikes, camping trips, and all sorts of outdoor adventures!
They have a signature curly coat that covers every part of their body except their “rat tail,” which is unusually bare. They are one of the best swimmers of all dog breeds and require plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Hairless Dog Breeds
Dogs With Short Legs
Dogs with short legs are often robust and adorable at the same time. While these canines were usually bred for hunting or working, they often make charming family pets, as well. With that being said, let's take a look at some of the most popular short-legged dog...
Retriever Breeds
Retrievers were specially created to retrieve game such as fowl and other animals while hunting, and they are revered for their obedience and trainability. So how many retriever breeds are there? Altogether, there are six official retriever breeds, and in this...
Giant Dog Breeds
Dogs can come in a bunch of different sizes, and a few breeds can be as big as humans, or even bigger! Giant dogs require an experienced and responsible owner, and they can be costly to care for, however they are extremely rewarding to keep as pets. That being said,...
Dog Breeds With Beards
One surprising yet adorable feature in some dog breeds is an adorable fluffy beard. This is a popular breed trait that adds a whole lot of personality to a dog. So here are the top dog breeds with beards, and what you'll want to know about each of them! Brussels...
Dogs With Dreadlocks
Dogs can come with all sorts of different hairstyles, but did you know that they can come with dreadlocks, too? If you want a dog that looks totally unique from all the other canines out there, then a dog with dreadlocks just might be the pooch for you. With that...
Dogs With Different Colored Eyes
While it may sound rare, there are actually a lot of dogs with different colored eyes. This is an odd but gorgeous condition that can occur in a variety of different breeds. So here are some of the top dog breeds with different colored eyes! Heterochromia in Dogs...
Slovakian Dog Breeds
Slovakia is a small country in central Europe. It is landlocked and bordered by Austria, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. And from hounds to wolfdogs Slovakia has created some of the most unique canines on the planet. So here are the Slovakian dog...
Danish Dog Breeds
The Kingdom of Denmark is a Northern European country. It is made up of the peninsula of Jutland along with more than 400 islands. This Scandinavian nation is also home to a handful of its very own dog breeds, which to most people’s surprise doesn’t include the Great...
Czech Dog Breeds
The Czech Republic is a country in Central Europe. It has an interesting history and has been an independent state since Czechoslovakia dissolved in 1993 and split into two separate countries: the Czech Republic and Slovakia. And it has created some amazing canines....
Polish Dog Breeds
Located in Central Europe, the Republic of Poland is a country of stunning beauty with a range of natural habitats. And it’s also home to several remarkable breeds of dogs that were developed for specific jobs. So here are the Polish dog breeds and what you’ll want to...
Dogs That Look Like Cows
Real cows belong on the farm and don’t make great pets, however dogs that look like cows do! Luckily for cow fans there are quite a few breeds ranging in size from tiny to extra-large, that have a cow-like appearance. So here are the top cow-looking dogs and what...
Dogs That Look Like Horses
Horses are gallant creatures with long flowing tails and manes. And while these aren’t traits most people think of when it comes to canines, amazingly there are a handful of dogs that look like horses. So here are the top horse-looking dogs and what you’ll want to...
Romanian Dog Breeds
Nestled in Southeastern Europe, Romania is a country with a diverse range of wildlife, and that includes predators. To safeguard livestock in this rugged terrain, four distinct Romanian dog breeds were developed. Dive into the unique characteristics and histories of...
Dogs That Look Like Deer
Deer are beautiful and graceful creatures that use their speed to evade predators. And it’s no coincidence that most of the dogs that look like deer are fast on their feet as well. Their similar looks are the result of function, and that function is speed. Here are...
Thai Dog Breeds
Like many other countries around the world, the Southeast Asian country of Thailand can be credited with developing its own very own dog breeds. And while there are only two, both are incredibly unique with a look and temperament all their own. So here are both of the...
Maltese Dog Breeds
Even some of the smallest countries in the world have created their very own dog breeds. And the Republic of Malta is no exception. This Southern European island nation located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea has developed two unique breeds to call its very...
Dogs That Look Like A Rug
Different dog breeds can have wildly different coat types. And with so many breeds out there, a few even have coats that make them look quite rug-like in appearance. Here are nine dogs that look like a rug including what you’ll want to know about each of these...
Dogs That Look Like A Lamb
Dogs are unique to other animals because they come in an endless combination of shapes, sizes, and colors. It's no wonder these beloved pets have made their way into our hearts! No matter what kind of dog you prefer, you're sure to find at least one breed that fits...
Dogs That Look Like Sheep
Through artificial selection, dog breeders have created hundreds of unique breeds with a range of different physical characteristics. Some even look similar to other animals including sheep. So here are seven dogs that look like sheep, and what you’ll want to know...