The notion that all dogs possess equal swimming capabilities is inaccurate. According to Justo Kantoravicius, head of the veterinary clinic “CanisFelis,” swimming ability varies significantly among breeds. He notes that while certain dogs excel in water, for others, swimming is not an innate or comfortable skill.
He compares canine physical aptitude to human variation, suggesting that proficiency ranges from natural talent to requiring extensive training. Kantoravicius identifies specific breeds, such as retrievers, Norfolk terriers, and Portuguese water dogs, as generally being proficient swimmers. Conversely, he observes that dogs with short coats, short hair, or larger builds tend to fatigue in the water much more quickly.
The veterinarian emphasizes that physical structure plays a critical role in aquatic ability. He illustrates this by contrasting a swimming retriever with an English bulldog. He explains that because the body and snout structure of these two breeds are fundamentally different, the bulldog faces considerable difficulty maintaining its head and snout above the water surface.
Therefore, the depth of swimming skill among dogs is not universal. While some breeds are naturally equipped for aquatic activity, others require specialized care and training, as their anatomy dictates different levels of comfort and endurance in the water.
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