American Water Spaniels Breed Profile: Essential Facts

Key Characteristics of American Water Spaniels

The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, muscular hunting dog known for its strength and versatility. These dogs are well-adapted for both land and water activities, thanks to their webbed feet and water-resistant coat. Physical Features Nose – Typically black or brown

• Ears – Long and wide, enhancing their sense of hearing
• Eyes – Slightly rounded; color varies with coat, but bright yellow is considered a fault
• Tail – Medium-length, feathered, tapered, and curved
• Feet – Webbed and well-padded, providing excellent traction in water
• Coat and Colors

American Water Spaniels have a double coat that is both water-resistant and dense, helping them stay warm in cold water. Their coat can be wavy or curly, with colors including: Liver Brown Chocolate

Some may have small white patches on the chest and toes, though these markings are considered faults in conformation competitions.

Thanks to their sturdy build and endurance, American Water Spaniels excel as retrievers and make loyal companions for active owners. Their unique combination of physical traits makes them well-suited for hunting and outdoor adventures.

Origins of the American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel (AWS) has an uncertain origin, but historians believe it descends from various European sporting breeds. Likely ancestors include: The Irish Water Spaniel The Curly-Coated Retriever The Field Spaniel The now-extinct Old English Water Spaniel

Developed in Wisconsin in the 1800s, the AWS became a favorite among hunters due to its versatility and ability to retrieve game on both land and water. Its compact size and water-resistant coat made it especially effective in the region’s marshlands and forests. The breed gained recognition when:

• The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized it in 1920
• The American Kennel Club (AKC) registered it in 1940
• It was named the state dog of Wisconsin in 1986

Today, the AWS continues to serve as both a skilled hunting dog and a loyal companion, excelling at retrieving rabbits, ducks, and other small game.

How Friendly Are American Water Spaniels?

The American Water Spaniel is an intelligent, eager-to-learn, and confident breed that also serves as an obedient watchdog. These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on human companionship. Family-Friendly and Social Nature

• Great with children and generally gets along with other animals
• May instinctively chase small game if they have a hunting background
• Craves attention and can become deeply attached to their families
• Training and Socialization

American Water Spaniels respond best to positive reinforcement training rather than harsh discipline. They are sensitive dogs, so using reward-based methods is key to building trust and effective learning. For guidance, check out positive reinforcement training.

Early socialization is highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adult dogs. New owners can benefit from reading about bringing a puppy home to set their AWS up for success.

With the right training and consistent reinforcement, American Water Spaniels make loyal, well-mannered companions for families and active owners alike.

These dogs do have at least one behavior described as annoying by Paul Morrison, author of American Water Spaniel:

They "have been known to go into a prolonged barking frenzy over things like songbirds feeding in the back yard, squirrels foraging for nuts or a shoe dropped on the floor."

Morrison suggests training to curb unwanted barking in your AWS.

Is the American Water Spanniel the Right Dog for You?

Exercise Needs

HIGH: American Water Spaniels are fine swimmers and hunters. They're adaptable to various terrains. Although they could feasibly live in an apartment, a yard would better suit their lifestyle.

Because this breed is so energetic, exercise is not optional. The dogs can become destructive and bark or whine excessively if you don't allow them to expel their energy.

Grooming Needs

MEDIUM: American Water Spaniels don't shed much, but you'll often need to brush the oily, water-resistant coat. A slicker brush works best to remove dead undercoat. Trim the hair between the paw pads, but be careful not to snip into the webbing.

Health Problems

MEDIUM: A few common health problems with American Water Spaniels include: Hip dysplasia Obesity

• Eye disorders, such as progressive retinal atrophy
• Heart abnormalities
• Degenerative myelopathy (disease of the spinal cord)
• Epilepsy
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes

In this video, an AWS named Raylan demonstrates some great skills in the field:

Where to Adopt an American Water Spaniel

Finding an American Water Spaniel to adopt is a challenge.

You could try Petful's free online pet adoption search first. But if that search comes up empty and you have your heart set on getting this exact breed, you'll probably need to contact a breeder.

If you go the breeder route, meet the dog's parents, view the breeder's home or facility, and get copies of the health tests performed on the dogs (hips, eyes and heart clearances). Watch out for the classic signs of a puppy mill operation.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Additional Resources

• AKC's American Water Spaniel Page
• American Water Spaniel Club