Water-search teams and water-rescue teams have different assignments. A search dog may help a trained team investigate human scent associated with someone missing in or near water. Some teams specialize in human-remains detection.
A rescue dog may assist a trained team with a person in distress, for example by delivering flotation equipment or helping with a tow. Equipment, training and operational limits depend on the team.
A dog is not automatically safe in hazardous water because of its breed, size or confidence. The original article’s assurances that a dog can safely enter conditions unsafe for a human rescuer have been removed.
For an emergency, call the appropriate rescue authorities. Do not attempt a dangerous rescue with an unprepared dog. Operational working-dog roles differ from disability service-dog work.