If you’re a comics fan, you’ve probably come across many superhero dogs, but do you know dogs are heroic in the real world, too? Dogs are popular companions for search and rescue missions, both on land and water-related.
While some canines make great rescues on dry land, others are better sidekicks in sea-related rescue missions. “Why is that?” you ask. We know dogs are versatile due to their genetic and physical differences. Certain breeds make good companions for water-based adventures due to their anatomy and water-resistant coats.
Here’s a list we’ve whipped up for you if you’re wondering which dogs make fantastic and heroic maritime rescuers.
Heroic Dog Breeds Perfect For Maritime Rescue
1. Newfoundland
Newfoundland is a gigantic breed with a caring and protective personality. Their affectionate and loyal nature towards their families has earned them the title of “nanny dogs” as they love to watch over kids. Newfies make great water rescue dogs due to their thick, water-repellent coat.
The American Kennel Club advises brushing your Newf’s dense coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
These majestic dogs can make quite a splash due to their impressive size and a coat that’s made for water-based activities. Their webbed feet give them an edge in making the right and balanced move despite their size.
Even though natural instincts and physical characteristics matter a lot, no dog is born into a superhero life. If you want your walking, talking (aka, barking) furball to become a maritime rescue, they’ll have to go through some training.
Newfoundlands, being the sweet-natured pups they are, training these water dogs can be a pleasure. All dogs have different trainability levels, but certain traits in each breed can help experienced trainers enhance their swimming prowess.
2. Labrador Retriever
Our favorite Labrador Retrievers are on top of the charts as maritime rescue dogs as well. As if their gentle nature and good looks weren’t enough to make us fall for them! The brave and intelligent Labs are also water sports enthusiasts, which helps them become great companions for sea rescuers.
Labrador Retrievers are ideal companions for people who love swimming and other aquatic adventures. These gorgeous dogs are not just loving family pets; they also possess a natural swimming ability that adds to their versatility.
If you want to teach your Lab puppy to swim, start in shallow waters to keep them from drowning or accidentally swallowing water. Labs are highly intelligent canines and can, since they also enjoy swimming, maritime rescuers are just the career they’re made for.
As they were originally bred for hunting and retrieving, Labs were used to assist fishermen by retrieving ducks and other waterfowl. These large to medium-sized dogs have a lush, water-resistant coat that makes them great for water life.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are not just eye-candies with their dreamy and soft coat, they also make great partners for maritime rescuers. With their high intelligence and natural swimming abilities, they’re one of the most popular choices as water-based rescue dogs.
Goldies were specifically bred to retrieve waterfowl in different kinds of environments. Their thick double coat keeps them warm and dry in aquatic environments and makes the water just flow off their hair. Goldies make amazing companion dogs who love children and adults alike.
With early socialization training and basic obedience commands, they grow to be charming pets and skilled rescue dogs. When training younger Golden Retrievers, implement appropriate safety precautions.
4. Portuguese Water Dog
As their name perfectly describes, Portuguese Water dogs are water-loving dogs that make natural swimmers. Born for the pool life, they’re great companions for outdoor activities that involve water. Their wavy or curly coats are hypoallergenic and make them great pets for allergic owners.
Nature was generous when endowing these dogs with their thick, water-resistant fur. These large but obedient and affectionate dogs have a natural instinct for saving lives due to their bravery. They are quite self-determined and love to think for themselves, but can be trained well with positive reinforcement.
These water-loving dogs have a rich history of working with Portuguese fisherman; splashing across boats to herd fish into fishing nets is their specialty.
5. Australian Shepherd
Water-specific herding isn’t the first thing you’ll see on an Aussie’s resume, but they do show some love for getting their fur wet. Australian Shepherds are endowed with a medium, dense double coat that makes them suitable water rescue dogs.
One thing you cannot question is an Aussie’s intelligence; actually, make it two things, their herding instinct is also impeccable. They are high-energy dogs with an innate love for outdoor adventures, and will not say no to water activities.
While not all Australian Shepherds necessarily become exceptional swimmers, their strength and intelligence help them adjust to water conditions.
6. Irish Setter
Irish Setter is an enthusiastic and fun-loving breed from the sporting dog family. This rare breed doesn’t run out of energy easily and is an excellent companion for active owners. Their charming, silky, long coat makes them impossible not to love.
Irish Setters’ behavior towards water activities can vary from dog to dog. While some Red Setters love water activities and can become powerful swimmers with appropriate training, others might be less fond of water.
Since they’re red blazes of energy, enjoying splashing about in water isn’t beyond them. Their athletic build and lush coat are also factors that can be channeled for training them into efficient maritime rescue pups.
7. Bloodhound
With a nose that just cannot be ignored, Bloodhounds are ‘nosey’ dogs with an amazing tracking sense. They’re large dogs with droopy ears and a thoughtful expression. Bloodhounds are pack dogs that don’t mind hanging out with children and other pets.
While we can’t call them a water breed, Bloodhounds can engage in aquatic activities with their families. They’re calm and caring pets despite their history as hunting dogs. The question remains: “Can they be trained as maritime rescue dogs?” With positive reinforcement and patient training, yes!
They have a strong skeletal structure and dense bones, so they don’t stay buoyant in water like most water dogs. To train them as water rescue dogs, use a shallow pool and appropriate safety equipment.
8. Border Collie
Border Collies are one of the most high-energy and determined dogs. Collies can be a handful, but a joy to be around. These dogs are athletic, agile, and swift; these qualities help them become strong swimmers when trained properly.
While not the best dog for inexperienced owners, a Collie can be a pretty great maritime rescuer. Their thick double coat can protect their skin when they take a splash in water.
These intelligent dogs do enjoy water, even if they seem hesitant at first. But it’s mainly their strength and physical capabilities that make them great for rescue missions.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
These regal dogs make fantastic companions and loyal family pets who get along well with children and adults alike. Their thick, silky coat makes them deal with cold weather and water conditions perfectly.
If trained early and properly, Bernese Mountain dogs can learn to enjoy water gradually. They’re not natural swimmers, but their resilience and protective nature help them become helpful companions in maritime rescue operations.
While their body weight can pose some challenges in water, their thick coat can help them deal with cold waters. Keeping in mind this dog’s strengths and weaknesses can help trainers train them effectively.
Conclusion
While dogs have different levels of capabilities as maritime rescuers, all dogs need a good and resilient trainer. Understanding each dog’s unique needs and nature is an important factor in turning them into supportive and powerful rescue partners.
