- March 19, 2026
My dogs decided that it’s summer. Last weekend they all hit the pool, enjoying every minute, long before the pool is warm enough for us. So why do some dogs love swimming and some avoid it at all costs?
Some of it has to do with breed. Some breeds like labs were bred to work in and around water, so they have webbed toes to help them swim. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers have oily coats that help repel water. Newfoundlands have a strong chest and shoulders perfect for swimming. Despite their modern reputation as a fancy show dog, standard poodles are natural swimmers, originally bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters.
On the other hand, there are breeds that might be less likely to love the water. They might be breeds who have flat faces (called brachycephalic) which make it more difficult to breathe while swimming, like English bulldogs, pugs, boxers and French bulldogs. They might be breeds with super short legs like basset hounds or dachshunds that struggle to paddle well enough to stay afloat.
Beyond breed, a dog’s past experience may influence whether or not they enjoy a day at the pool. Has the dog slipped and fallen into a cold pool with no one around to scoop them out right away? Has the dog been introduced to water via the ocean and been hit with big, scary waves? Is the only water experience a bath? Nobody likes baths, partially because dogs are restrained for baths, it’s never a choice, often with water sprayed around the face.
Or have their water experiences been positive? A slow introduction, maybe even with a doggie life vest, or being held by a trusted family member? Perhaps your dog was able to learn from other dogs in the family, watching them play and have doggie parties in the water.
A dog’s personality will make a difference too. Dogs that are naturally adventurous, confident and playful are much more likely to enjoy water sports than shy or easily stressed dogs. My dogs jump in from all sides of the pool over and over and over….all six of them. By the time they’re tired out, we have to add water to the pool.
Pool time can be more than just fun. Swimming is great for their joints. It’s exercise that doesn’t put stress on hips or knees. Swimming supports cardiovascular health, promotes muscle strength, helps ease arthritis and even will help heal injuries. It’s unofficial hydrotherapy.
So enjoy summer with your pets. Watch them closely to make sure everyone stays safe, then swim, play and have a blast!
Amy Carotenuto is the Executive Director of Flagler Humane Society, an open admission, full service organization whose mission is to transform animal’s lives through compassionate care and services, outstanding educational programs and advocacy for all animals.
