For some dogs it is instinct, but with others you just need to to get them to gain confidence with water.
I own Newfoundlands, so you would think they would take to the water with no problems, being water dogs. WRONG!! My second one did, but the others, well!
Our Molly is 10 1/2 years old and has always hated water, she won't even walk on wet grass! However, for some reason this summer she decided she liked to swim, and now we can't keep her out of the water. Both my youngsters can swim, but they aren't that confident, my male will only go into water if his sister is in there, then he might swim to her and then back... That will be it!!
If you want your dog to swim, and he isn't so sure then I suggest you keep taking him to water. Take a fav toy with you and throw it into the water... Not far from shore though and encourage him to get it. If he does give him loads of praise. Once he is happy to get his paws wet throw it a little further, and keep going on like this until he is happy to swim.
Good luck!
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Shelley
Mum to Molly, Honey, Kitten, Tia and.... Another baby soon  | 
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