Golden Retrievers are known for their love of water, and many dog owners believe that all Golden Retrievers like to swim. However, the truth is that not all Golden Retrievers have the same affinity for water. In this article, we will explore whether Golden Retrievers and/or English Cream Golden Retrievers like water and what factors can influence their love of swimming. The reality is, an English Cream is a Golden Retriever. I mention the difference as many people search the term exclusively. Their affinity for water should be the same.

Golden Retrievers and Water

A Golden Retriever is a breed of dog that originated in the United Kingdom. They are known for their beautiful gold-colored coat and friendly, loyal personality. They are also a popular breed for families due to their love of children and easy-going nature.

One of the most distinctive features of a Golden Retriever is their coat, which is thick and water-resistant. This makes them well-suited for swimming and other water-based activities.

Factors that Influence Golden Retrievers’ Love of Water

While many Golden Retrievers love water, not all dogs of this breed are natural swimmers. Rather, I should say not all want to swim. Often I’m told by Golden Retriever owners that their dogs hate the water. Several factors can influence a dog’s love of water, including their genetics, personality, and early life experiences.

Genetics

The genetics of a dog can play a significant role in their love of water. Some breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever and the Portuguese Water Dog, are known for their love of water and have been bred for specific water-based activities. However, the Golden Retriever was not specifically bred for water-based activities, so their love of water may vary from dog to dog. Although the webbing of their feet make it possible to excel at swimming.

Personality

Another factor that can influence a dog’s love of water is their personality. Some dogs are naturally adventurous and love to explore new environments, while others are more cautious and prefer to stay on dry land. Dogs that are more outgoing and curious may be more likely to enjoy swimming and other water-based activities.

Early Life Experiences

A dog’s early life experiences can also influence their love of water. Dogs that are introduced to water at a young age may be more comfortable and confident in the water than dogs that are not exposed to water until later in life. Additionally, if a dog has had a negative experience with water, such as being caught in a strong current, they may develop a fear of water that can be difficult to overcome.

This was the case with Ember. I didn’t introduce her to rivers and the beach at an early age. So when it came to the time to introduce her, she was very cautious. Almost all Golden Retrievers will enjoy the water if you expose them really early.

Type of Water

Something many people may not realize, but the type of water you visit can determine the likelihood your dog will like the water. Taking your dog to the beach with crashing waves, may not be an optimal first visit. Plus many dogs, especially my Golden Athena, loved to drink the saltwater. That’s something that caused other issues (diarrhea).

A river with rapids may also scare a golden retriever. I would introduce your golden to a small pool, or a lake for their first experience. Then when comfortable take them to a river or beach with waves. We’ve taken our goldens to the local Dog Water Resort, and helped to introduce them to the water there.

Lily, an English Cream Golden Retriever

To better understand whether English Cream Golden Retrievers like water, let’s take a look at an example. Meet Lily, a two-year-old English Cream Golden Retriever. Lily’s owner, Sarah, lives near a lake and enjoys taking Lily out for walks around the lake. Sarah has noticed that Lily is hesitant to go into the water, even on hot days when other dogs are swimming.

To help Lily overcome her fear of water, Sarah begins taking her to a nearby pond where the water is shallow and calm. Sarah starts by wading into the water and calling Lily to come in with her. At first, Lily is hesitant and stays on the shore. However, after a few minutes of encouragement, Lily tentatively steps into the water and starts paddling her legs.

Over the course of a few weeks, Sarah continues to take Lily to the pond, gradually increasing the depth of the water and introducing new toys for Lily to play with in the water. Slowly but surely, Lily becomes more confident in the water and starts to enjoy swimming.

This is a prime example of how to introduce a golden to water.

Toys To Get Your Golden in the Water

Dog Bite Tug Toy: If your dog enjoys fetch, then a toy that is durable and floats may an option to expose your dog to the water. Water-resistant chew toys made of durable materials such as rubber or nylon can be great for dogs who enjoy playing and chewing in the water.

Floating Toys: Any ball that floats (tennis balls), may be a way of getting your golden in the water. Toys such as floating frisbees can be great for encouraging dogs to swim and retrieve in the water.

ChuckIt! Amphibious Bumper Fetch and Float Dog Toy: Tug toys are great for playing games of tug-of-war with your dog in the water, helping to build their confidence and make water-based activities more enjoyable.

Scented Toys: Toys with a strong scent, such as ones infused with a meaty flavor, can entice dogs to investigate and retrieve the toy from the water.

Splash Toys: Splash toys are specially designed to be thrown into the water, make a big splash, and then float for easy retrieval. They can be great for encouraging dogs to play and swim in the water.

Summary

While many Golden Retrievers (English Creams) love water, not all dogs of this breed are natural swimmers. Several factors can influence a dog’s love of water, including their genetics, personality, and early life experiences. However, with patience and positive reinforcement, even dogs that are initially hesitant about water can learn to love swimming and other water-based activities.

If you are considering getting an English Cream Golden Retriever and are hoping to enjoy water-based activities with your dog, it is important to keep these factors in mind. While some dogs may take to water easily, others may require more patience and encouragement to feel comfortable in the water.

When introducing your dog to water, it is essential to start slowly and build up their confidence gradually. Using positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, can also help to make the experience more enjoyable for your dog.

Sources:

1. “Fear of Water in Dogs” by the American Kennel Club: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/fear-of-water-in-dogs/