If you look at dog breeds commonly seen in water, you’ll see that most of them are medium to large since most of them have bodies that make swimming easy for them. While most small canines aren’t natural swimmers, some breeds defy the stereotype by having a strong love of water. These small dog breeds that love water may require more training than larger dogs, but this won’t prevent them from enjoying aquatic activities as much as large dogs.
In this article, we’ll get to know a few random dog breeds that love swimming and frolicking in the water!
12 Small dog breeds that love water
1. Schipperke
- Weight: 3 – 19 lbs
- Length: 16 in – 20 in
- Height: 13 in – 16 in
If you’re looking for a small dog that can enjoy water and swimming with you, the Schipperke might be the one for you. This breed exhibits a playful personality and can coexist with other small dogs.
As faithful watchdogs, they were once bred to guard boat anchors and are even usually seen as the captain’s dog. Their coat, which is water resistant to some degree, adds to their love for the water and helps them enjoy it more.
2. Miniature poodles
- Weight: 10 – 15 lbs
- Length: 15 in – 19 in
- Height: 16 in – 21 in
The poodle is another dog that loves to swim in the pool, and this breed comes in different sizes. So, if you want a pup that can fit perfectly inside your home and you have limited space, then consider choosing the miniature poodle.
These dogs are very smart and learn quickly, but their people still need to train them. Swimming with them might be one of the best exercises because they’re very playful and highly energetic.
3. Boston Terrier
- Weight: 15 – 19 lbs
- Length: 22 in – 24 in
- Height: 19 in – 21 in
Although Boston Terriers aren’t born swimmers, owners can still train these dogs to swim, and they do enjoy this activity when it’s done properly. It’s no surprise that these high-energy canines are trainable, given their strong character traits, especially during play. Boston Terriers also make a good addition to families because they have a reputation for being good with children.
4. Cavalier King Charles spaniels
- Weight: 13 – 18 lbs
- Length: 19 in – 20 in
- Height: 15 in – 16.5 in
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels enjoy being in the water and are among the small breeds that take part in aquatic activities. If you want these Spaniels to be good swimmers and learn how to swim properly without causing any injury, it’s also important to train them. These dogs are great for families since they’re sociable and loyal, and they’re not known for having aggressive behavior.
5. Brussels griffons
- Weight: 8 – 12 lbs
- Length: 10 in – 11 in
- Height: 10 in – 11 in
The Brussels griffons, known for their affectionate yet demanding personality, are another small breed with a natural talent for swimming. Their large, webbed feet make it effortless for them to swim and enjoy the pool with their owners. Even though they show a certain level of stubbornness, their intelligence shines through, making them capable of appreciating your guidance as you lead them to the waters, especially if they’re still unfamiliar with the territory.
6. Yorkshire terriers
- Weight: 4 – 7 lbs
- Length: 12 in – 15.5 in
- Height: 10.5 in – 13 in
The Yorkshire terrier, another terrier breed, can naturally swim and will even jump straight into the pool to play with it. However, you must always keep an eye on them or always guide them as they play with water since these adorable pups have small lungs and airways. Yorkshire terriers have fiery and bold personalities, so you can be sure that if they have the opportunity to play in the water, they’ll take advantage of it.
7. Havanese
- Weight: 7 – 13 lbs
- Length: 19 in – 25.5 in
- Height: 12.5 in – 17 in
Another breed that you can easily take anywhere and train to love swimming in the water is the Havanese, which is a breed that loves to do anything with their owners. Havanese easily attach to their humans and may not handle separation well, so it’s best to keep them with you wherever you go and in any activity you do. You can train them, and swimming with you will definitely make them happy.
8. Silky terrier
- Weight: 8 – 10 lbs
- Length: 16 in – 22 in
- Height: 12 in – 16 in
You should supervise your silky terrier whenever there is a chance for him to swim because terriers are known for enjoying the presence of water. This small breed’s enthusiasm and friendliness make it the perfect companion for any adventure. Also, remember that they may be aggressive with other dogs, so you should keep your eyes on them whenever other canines are around.
9. Jack Russell
- Weight: 13 – 17 lbs
- Length: 18 in – 21.5 in
- Height: 14 in – 17 in
The Jack Russell terriers can become good swimmers who enjoy water if introduced well at an early age. It’s also advisable to train your pup for this activity as swimming is an exercise that can be very good for their overall health without causing any bone injury. These intelligent canines are easy to train, and they’re also fearless, especially when they protect their people.
10. Rat terrier
- Weight: 10 – 25 lbs
- Length: 19 in – 25 in
- Height: 18 in – 25 in
The Rat terriers have long legs that make them ideal for aquatic activities, particularly swimming. Because of its genetics, this dog likes playing with water, and rat terriers won’t hesitate to do so because they have high energy levels. They’re among the calmest terrier breeds, but they still require training and exercise to keep their bodies healthy.
11. Coton de Tulear
- Weight: 9 – 15 lbs
- Length: 17 in – 20 in
- Height: 14 in – 16 in
The Coton de Tulear, Madagascar’s official dog, is another gorgeous pup to consider if you want one who enjoys playing with water. This type is particularly playful and sweet, making them ideal pets for homes with other canines or children. Coton de Tulears are also highly sensitive and may react negatively if they’re continuously punished, so use positive reinforcement when training them.
12. American Eskimo
- Weight: 18 – 35 lbs
- Length: 21 in – 26 in
- Height: 18 in – 22 in
American Eskimos are small dog breeds with fluffy white fur and a lion-like ruff across their chest and shoulders. They have high spirits and make excellent companions because they’re kind, well-behaved, and gentle. You might also know them for their love of water, and because of their thick fur that resists water, combined with their strong legs, they can readily enjoy playing and learning aquatic activities.