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We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
But if you want a pup that is equally at home in the water as on land, then there are certain dogs that should top your wish list
Here are 10 of the breeds that are born to swim.
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9. Newfoundland
Another Canadian breed at home on the coast, the Newfoundland has a talent for rescuing people from the water. As family pets they enjoy playing in the sea and are still potential lifesavers. | Canva/Getty Images
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10. Poodle
Many new Poodle owners are amazed by how much their pet likes swimming. It shouldn't be a shock though, as the breed's name derives from the German word 'pudl', which means 'to splash in water'. | Canva/Getty Images
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11. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
A popular breed in its native Canada, the water-loving Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever has a unique ability to lure ducks into the sights of a hunter. They'll then happily jump into the lake to retrieve the doomed waterfowl. | Canva/Getty Images
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12. Irish Water Spaniel
These curly-coated dogs are expert swimmers with great stamina. Known for their buoyant build and unique 'rat tail' (which you can see clearly in this picture) they retrieve game from water effortlessly and enjoy water play year-round. | Canva/Getty Images