Small Dog Breeds That Love Water — 8 Little Doggy Paddlers
Making a Big Splash: Small Dog Breeds That Love Water
Most dogs love splashing about in the water. But, when it comes to aqua-based sports, the limelight is often stolen by larger breeds such as the Golden and Labrador Retriever.
However, there are some small dog breeds that love the water. For example, the likes of the Schipperke or Miniature Poodle often defy this stereotype.
Admittedly, some smaller breeds may require more training than larger water-loving canines, yet this doesn’t stop your pint-sized pooch from enjoying water activities any less.
What Can Influence Dogs That Like Water and Those That Don’t?
Dogs that like water enjoy swimming, splashing in puddles, and even playing with your garden sprinklers — they can be a joy to watch as they indulge in aquatic fun.
However, many smaller dog breeds can be afraid of water, they despise baths and want absolutely nothing to do with the garden hose. So, why are some dogs at home in the water, yet others are land-loving pooches?
Genetic Instincts and Breeding
Many of the best water dogs have a natural instinct when it comes to H2O, often traced back to their ancestors. Some canines were originally bred for water-related tasks, such as retrieving waterfowl or assisting fishermen. Other roles would include boat watch/guard dog and even seafaring vermin control.
This instinct has persisted through generations, manifesting in various ways among different, yet, typically larger breeds. Small dogs that like water are often underestimated in their aquatic abilities, but can also have that working dog heritage.
Early Experiences With Water
Early introduction is essential for dogs that love water. If a dog has a bad experience as a pup, they may be less inclined to jump in as they get older. A dog that falls into a deep pool or is maybe forced into a cold bath will not love the water too much. In some cases, being sprayed with a water bottle as a correction method when training may have put them off.
Health Issues
Health issues such as shortness of breath in brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs, Pekingese, or the Japanese Chin may cause smaller dogs to panic when faced with the strenuous activity of swimming. Maltese dogs often suffer from weakened tracheas as they age, which also makes it more difficult for them to breathe when swimming.
Can All Dogs Swim?
Of course one of the biggest factors concerning dog breeds that like water is whether they can swim. If trained correctly just about any dog can tread water — although, it may be more of a struggle for some breeds, especially small dogs.
The best water dogs and confident swimmers tend to be medium to large canines with stronger, muscular limbs and webbing in between their toes. Water dog breeds include:
Labrador Retriever.
Golden Retriever.
Newfoundland.
Portuguese Water Dog.
American Water Spaniel.
Irish Water Spaniel.
Smaller dogs with short legs and large chests don’t tend to swim well as they struggle to stay afloat. Compact canines that fit into this category include:
Dachshund.
Shih Tzu.
Corgi.
Pug.
Although it doesn’t mean they can’t swim, these small top-heavy pups may be more fearful of water.
The pups we look at below have generally overcome their physical limitations to emerge as small water dog breeds.
Water Safety for Small Breeds That Like Water
While there are small dogs that love to swim, safety should always be a priority. Dogs are individuals, hence some may require more assistance or guidance in the water. If you’re unsure of your dog’s swimming abilities, invest in appropriate safety gear, such as life vests, especially when engaging in activities like boating or swimming in larger bodies of water.
Small dogs can get hypothermia or even drown if forced to go into the water without correct training. Supervision is key to ensuring a positive and secure water experience for small breeds.
Small Dog Breeds That Love Water
The small dogs we look at below are dogs that like to swim and will play in the water when given the chance. These eight pooches may be small in stature, but they’re great at doggy paddle.
1. Schipperke
Weight: 10 - 16 pounds
Height: 10 - 13 inches
Originally bred as barge dogs, the Schipperke (pronounced skipper-kee) was used for security and to keep the boat free of small pests in their native Belgium. Not only do the Schipperkes love being in, on or near water, they have a waterproof undercoat. This keeps them warm in the water.
With a strong swimmer’s build, Schipperkes are also highly intelligent and can be trained in aquatic sports, including dock diving and water retrieval — they love swimming for fun too! This pooch fairs well on boats and is the perfect companion/watchdog for families who enjoy water-based adventures.
However, while the Schipperke can be affectionate towards their owners, they’re wary of strangers. And, this breed can be stubborn, hence, novice dog owners may find them a challenge to train.
2. Miniature Poodle
Weight: 10 - 15 pounds
Height: 10 - 15 inches
The name Poodle comes from the German phrase pudel/pudelin, meaning “puddle” or “ to splash,” which stems from their heritage as a water retrieval dog. The Miniature Poodle shares the same fondness for water as the larger Standard Poodle but in a more apartment-friendly form.
The distinctive Poodle clip wasn’t for show, it was developed to reduce the Poodle’s weight and drag when swimming. The hair would be left longer over the pooch’s head and chest to help keep the dog warmer in the water. Although Mini Poodles enjoy swimming, they may find a full coat weighs them down.
All Poodles, regardless of size, are renowned for their high levels of intelligence, trainability, and affectionate nature. They make great family pets, will love days out swimming with the kids, and they’re hypoallergenic with a non-shedding coat — ideal if you suffer from allergies.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Weight: 13 - 18 pounds
Height: 12 - 13 inches
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may look like your stereotypical lap dog, but they have a natural ability for swimming due to their ancestors in the Spaniel family tree being skilled water dogs.
Although their silky coats and elegant appearance may suggest an aversion to water, most Cavaliers are dogs that love to swim. That said, as with all canines, Cavaliers can have very individual personalities and some may not be a fan of water.
Sociable and loyal, Cavaliers are ideal for families and aren’t known for exhibiting aggression. However, they do retain their hunting and scenting instincts of the Spaniel and shouldn’t be let off the leash on dry land — they may wander off if they find an interesting trail to follow. Better off to keep them swimming!
4. Yorkshire Terrier
Weight: 7 pounds
Height: 7 - 8 inches
Yorkies, a toy Terrier breed, can naturally swim and will quite happily jump in the pool to play. However, their small lungs and airways mean you must keep a close eye on them or guide them when in the water.
With a single coat and light-boned build, these traits make the Yorkshire Terrier a good swimmer, especially when compared with other barrel-chested small dogs, such as the Pug. The silky coat of a Yorkie is also much lighter in the water than the thick double coats of other small dogs.
The thing is, no one seems to have told the Yorkies they’re small dogs — they have fiery and bold personalities, meaning they can be quite adventurous and determined. And, thanks to their stubborn streak, you may have trouble getting your Yorkie out of the pool!
5. Havanese
Weight: 8 - 11.5 pounds
Height: 7 - 13 inches
Underneath all that cuteness and the long hair of the Havanese is an athletic and agile little pup. History suggests these dogs were brought over on boats from Spain, where they were adopted by the wealthy aristocracy of Cuba's capital.
As part of the Barbichon family of dogs which descend from Water Spaniels and Barbets, Havanese are genetically good doggy paddlers. But, a life jacket should be worn if taking your pup on a boat.
6. American Eskimo (Miniature)
Weight: 10 - 20 pounds
Height: Under 12 - 15 inches
Although full-size American Eskimo Dogs can tip the scales at over 35 pounds, there is a miniature version of these dogs that love to swim. A small fluffy white dog, the Eskie combines stunning good looks with brains and makes a great family pet for the kids to play with in the water.
A large dog in a small dog's body, the American Eskie needs plenty of exercise and space to roam around in. What could be better than a large open area of water or even a backyard pool for them to burn off all that energy?
The double coat of an American Eskimo is thick enough to resist water, and their strong legs and feet give them a bold and energetic paddle for swimming. And, a fast learner, the American Eskimo is a kid-friendly breed who loves being part of any family activities, including aquatic adventures.
7. Russell Terrier
Weight: 9 - 15 pounds
Height: 10 - 12 inches
Russell Terriers are a small breed originally developed for fox hunting. These hyperactive dogs excel in many sporting activities, including Frisbee.
An intelligent breed, Russells are easy to train to swim. They’re confident canines too, the Terrier in them isn’t afraid to try new things, and they’re enthusiastic in every activity they take part in.
Whether short or rough-coated, this breed only has one layer of fur, which won’t weigh them down in the water. Plus, for a pup like the Russell Terrier, swimming is a great exercise to expend their boundless energy, ensuring they remain calm and better behaved for the rest of the day.
8. Rat Terrier
Weight: 10 - 25 pounds
Height: 18 - 25 inches
With their long legs and smooth-coated bodies, the Rat Terrier has the perfect build for swimming. This canine descends from various Terrier breeds, many of which were used for hunting vermin.
As small water dogs, they often excel in activities such as dock diving, and have a natural affinity for jumping and retrieving. Rat Terriers are very energetic, and swimming can be a great form of exercise — as a working dog they have the stamina for extended water sessions.
However, the Rat Terrier has a strong prey drive. Therefore, if walking off-leash, don’t trust them to stay by your side if they spot something of interest — they will quite happily pursue the local wildlife for hours. You should also keep a close eye on them in the water, not all aquatic animals can be friendly if given chase.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a pint-sized companion to accompany you on your days to the beach or on the occasional boat trip, there are a few breeds to choose from. Being small in size doesn’t always mean being small on adventure.
Whether it’s a Yorkie splashing around in your kid’s pool or a Poodle confidently swimming in a lake, the small dog breeds that love water demonstrate size isn’t a limitation when it comes to aquatic enthusiasm.
What Small Dogs Like Water? FAQs
What Small Dogs Are Good at Swimming?
Smaller working dog breeds like the Schipperke or the Poodle will often display the best swimming abilities. This is due to years of breeding — developing waterproof coats, muscular limbs, and webbed feet in some breeds.
What Dog Breed Loves The Water Most?
Although larger dogs like the Golden or Labrador Retriever are more often seen in the water and as such considered water dogs. Smaller dogs like the Poodle also love the water and can be avid swimmers.
Can Small Dogs Swim In Pools?
Yes, but with supervision. For dogs that like to swim a well-balanced chlorinated or saltwater swimming pool can be a safe haven. No more risk of strong undercurrents that may carry the small pooch away and the pool edge acts as a natural boundary to stop your pooch from paddling too far.
Just don’t let your pup drink from the pool and ensure your dog is thoroughly rinsed after swimming to remove any chemicals or salt that may irritate their skin.
Do Dogs Like Little Pools?
Yes, paddling pools can offer a cooling escape for your pup in the summer months. They can also provide mental stimulation and exercise for your furry companion and make a great addition to family life.