If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
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.
These are the breeds that have been developed to carry out various water-based tasks, from collecting fishing nets at sea to scampering into lochs to collect felled game birds.
Even if they are now kept as family pets, the love of water is in their very DNA - some even have webbed feet to allow them to swim better.
Here are 14 breeds of dog that make the best swimmers.
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9. Gordon Setter
Taking their name from the Duke of Gordon, who established the breed in 19th century Scotland, the Gordon Setter loves long walks and cooling dips in lochs. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
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10. Barbet
A rare French breed, the Barbet is a natural swimmer with a dense, curly coat and webbed feet. They’re playful, energetic, and happiest when jumping into lakes or ponds. | Canva/Getty Images
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11. 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. | Getty Images
12. English Setter
Though better known as a bird dog (being bred to hunt quail, pheasant and grouse), English Setters enjoy swimming and are strong, graceful in water. Their energy, endurance, and love of outdoor play translate well to aquatic settings. | Getty Images