American Water Spaniel
dog Breed Profile
American water spaniels are medium-sized, muscular dogs that stand from about 15 to 18 inches tall and weigh from 25 to 45 pounds (11 to 20 kilograms).
In this article
Floppy ears (naturally)
Size
Weight
30-45 lbs.
25-40 lbs.
Height
17 in.
(at withers)
18 in.
Coat
Length
Medium
Color
Solid liver, brown, dark chocolate
Care
Exercise
20-40 minutes/day
Energy level
Very energetic
Longevity
10-13 yrs.
Needs
Moderate
Traits
High
Low
Drooling
High
Digging
Low
Grooming Needs
Low
Social Needs
Moderate
Club recognition
AKC Class.
Sporting
UKC Class.
Gun Dog
Prevalence
Rare
Hunting instincts make the American water spaniel prone to wander. A fenced yard or leash is a must.
American water spaniels are medium-sized, muscular dogs that stand from about 15 to 18 inches tall and weigh from 25 to 45 pounds (11 to 20 kilograms).
- FORM -
American water spaniels are smart, obedient, affectionate and known for getting along with other animals and children. They also make good watchdogs. These characteristics make them excellent family pets.
True to their hunting instincts, this breed likes to wander and should be contained in a fenced yard or taken out on leash. Since the dogs are natural water retrievers, they also enjoy the opportunity to swim.
Brushing about twice weekly is all that is needed to keep the water spaniel's coat in good shape. They are considered light shedders. The coat tends to get oily, however, and may produce an odor.
Water spaniels can adapt to just about any type of environment, but they are active dogs by nature. If kept in a small house or apartment, they need to be walked routinely or given the opportunity to romp freely in a fenced-in space.
American water spaniels have been around since the 18th century. They were developed as working gun dogs in the American Midwest, particularly Wisconsin and Minnesota, and excel at retrieving game birds on land or in water. The breed is used primarily for hunting quail, pheasant, duck, grouse, and rabbit. Although no one is certain, the dog's coat and gun skills suggest it is the result of crossing the curly-coated retriever with the Irish water spaniel.
The American water spaniel is a rare breed even though these dogs have many characteristics that make them excellent family pets. In 1990, fewer than 300 were registered with the American Kennel Club.
Other breeds you might be interested in
-
Adoption Choices: Herding Dog Breeds
Discover why herding dogs are great choices for active pet parents and families, especially those who have plenty of time & energy for their new friend.
-
All About Brachycephalic Dogs
What are brachycephalic dogs? Learn all about these short-nosed dog breeds and why they're so beloved, but also some of the health issues they face.
-
How Many Dog Breeds Are There?
Learn all about the extensive amount of dog breeds, the classifications that they fall into, and the process for getting a new breed officially recognized.
-
How to Determine Your Dog's Breed
Discover how to determine your dog's breed by identifying visual or behavioral traits that are common in their purebred cousins.
-
Medium Sized Dogs: The Goldilocks of Dog Sizes
Discover the endearing qualities of medium-sized dogs, including size benefits and how to choose which breed is best for your family & living situation.
-
The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Cold Weather
Some dogs are more comfortable in cold winter temperatures than others. Learn some of the best breeds for cold weather & they thrive when it's chilly.
