If you enjoy swimming either for fun or as part of a sport, and are considering getting a dog, you may want to think carefully about bringing a certain breed into the mix.
True enough, some canine breeds simply do not take to the water the same way others do. Some canines are more delicate than others, and they may just not like the water, particularly if you live in a cooler climate.
Dogs with very dense and long coats, as well as those with a barrel-shaped body and short legs, may have difficulty swimming. We've compiled a list of canines that aren't great swimmers and would rather stay on dry ground.
Due to their flat faces, these tiny wrinkled puppies often have difficulty breathing. In deep water, where a pug's short legs can't reach the bottom for support, these problems can become much more severe.
Despite their muscular pedigree—they were originally developed in Wales, United Kingdom for herding—corgis aren't particularly adept swimmers. They can be taught to swim, but their unusually elongated bodies will make it appear forced.
Although their longer muzzles will help them breathe better in the water than brachycephalic breeds like the pug, their short legs will prevent them from being able to swim for very long.
Don't let a boxer's long legs and muscular physique deceive you. They are brachycephalic, like the pug, because they have a flat snout and short muzzle.
Because of their small muzzles and tiny legs, Shih Tzus have a hard time swimming. In addition, they are burdened by a cut coat, which can become soaked and heavy in the water.
Although the basset hound was developed for hunting, don't count on it to follow a trail that goes into deep water.
Lightweight and with a full muzzle, these sociable canines are nonetheless highly susceptible to temperature swings.
Due to their deep chests and shortened legs, bull terriers are not built for swimming and will have a harder time maintaining their buoyancy.
Although they are a very strong and active breed of dog, there are many other water-based pursuits that they will enjoy.