5 Dog Breeds with Webbed Feet

It is probably common knowledge that animals that feed primarily on aquatic creatures have webbed feet. Although this feature is mainly reserved for reptiles, some birds, and semi-aquatic mammals, some dog breeds have webbed feet. Like stubby legs, dogs with webbed feet are usually bred to emphasise this trait to better help mankind with chores like farming and hunting. Keep reading to find out what 5 of the webbed-feet doggos were meant to do! 

NEWFOUNDLAND

These gentle giants, the original “ship dogs”, were widely used for retrieving lost fishing gear and rescuing humans from waters. Although well-renowned to perform to perform water rescues, their possession of immense strength and a thick double coat also allowed them to be multi-purposeful. Newfoundland dogs have been used to carry loads, and pull carts and sleds.

OTTERHOUND

As the name suggests, Otterhounds were primarily bred to hunt and destroy otters that were depleting the fish supply in rivers and ponds. With less than 1,000 otterhounds in the world today, the scarcity of this breed is not its only uniqueness. Otterhounds possess a rough, weather-resistant double coat and webbed feet which makes them perfect for hunting both on land and in water.

GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER

These doggos’ primary hunting targets are birds. Howeer, they do not discriminate on the types of birds, and often need to travel between land and water to fulfil their hunts. Their webbed feet not only help them swim efficiently in rivers and ponds, but also help provide stability when they walk on muddy and mushy grounds (near bodies of water). Additionally, their dense, thick coats are water repellent and dries quickly after a water adventure.

LABRADOR RETRIEVER

Probably the most popular and beloved dog breed in the world today, the Labrador Retriever has been speculated to be closely related to the Newfoundland Dogs, and a descendant of the now-extinct St. John Water-Dog. Historically, these adorable dogs were bred as water dogs that help fishermen haul nets, fetching ropes, and retrieve fish; today, labrador retrievers are primarily used as guide dogs, as well as for search-and-rescue activities.

DACHSHUND

Not all dogs’ webbed feet are meant to amplify their swimming abilities. Dachshunds are famous diggers that hunt badgers and other smaller prey like rabbits and mice. The extra membrane between their toes acts like little shovels to help them dig through dirt quickly and efficiently. 

Dogs require both mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours. For water dog breeds, keep their ancestral instincts in mind and incorporate water activities. Enhance their playtime with our AFP Interactive Hyper Fetch Mini––This fun ball launcher can provide your dog with hours of entertainment. Simply place the ball into the top of the AFP Interactive Hyper Fetch Mini and 10 seconds later, the ball will be launched. This interactive toy can automatically satisfy your dog’s hunting instincts; watch them chase the ball from land to water for a splashing good time!

If you’re looking for one of these breeds to join your family, you can contact us at 6970 7555 or follow us on social media @petmastersg for timely updates on our available puppies. For more information on Pet Master’s puppies, click here!

Tags: puppies, breeds