Some dog breeds cannot swim well or struggle to stay afloat due to their body structure, short legs, or breathing limitations. While individual dogs vary, the breeds below are widely known for having difficulty swimming and should be kept safe around water:
Dog breeds that typically can’t swim well or shouldn’t swim:
1. Bulldogs (English & French)
Their heavy, muscular bodies and flat faces make it hard to keep their heads above water.
2. Pugs
Another brachycephalic breed—short snouts make breathing difficult while paddling.
3. Boxers
They have short muzzles and dense bodies that can make swimming tiring and risky.
4. Dachshunds
Their short legs and long backs make swimming awkward and challenging.
5. Corgis (Pembroke & Cardigan)
Short legs + long body shape = poor buoyancy and limited propulsion.
6. Basset Hounds
Their heavy bones and short legs make them poor swimmers.
7. Shih Tzus
Their flat faces and dense coats can make swimming difficult and uncomfortable.
8. Maltese
Small size and heavy coats can weigh them down in water.
9. Bull Terriers
They have muscular, egg-shaped bodies that don’t float well.
10. Chow Chows
Their thick coats become heavy when wet, making swimming hard and unsafe.
Important Note
Even dogs who can swim can still panic, tire easily, or become waterlogged—so supervision and a dog life jacket are always smart around pools, lakes, or the ocean.