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.
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