Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
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 12 breeds of dog that make the best swimmers.
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9. Poodle
Many new Poodle owners are amazed by how much their pet likes swimming. It shouldn't be a shock though, as the breed's name derives from the German word 'pudl', which means 'to splash in water'. | Getty Images
10. 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
11. Curly-Coated Retriever
The cute hair which gives the Curly-Coated Retriever its name is ideal for maintaining body temperature on long swims. Like other retrievers they were used to collect felled birds from water. | Getty Images
12. English Setter
Though better known as a bird dog, 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