American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel’s roots started at the Wolf and Fox River Valley region of East-Central Wisconsin. The area has rivers and huge lakes such as Poygan, Butte des Morts, and Winnebago that became a waterfowl gunner's paradise in the late eighteenth century. European immigrants who moved to Wisconsin and Minnesota relied on the region’s waterfowl for livelihood.

The breeders aimed to create a gun dog that is skilled at retrieving game birds both on land and in water. Throughout the years, they cross-bred different European breeds to produce the American Water Spaniel. Although the dog's parent breed remains a mystery, it is mentioned in histories that the Curly-coated Retriever, Irish Water Spaniel, and the now extinct English water spaniel are believed to be the component breeds.

The American Water Spaniel proved to be a reliable all-around hunter and retriever. He is highly skilled in catching ducks, grouses, pheasants, quails, and rabbits. Retrieving downed waterfowls is also something that the breed specialises in.

Sadly, although the American Water Spaniel is packed with good traits that make it an ideal family pet, it is a rare dog breed. According to the American Water Spaniel Club, there are approximately no more than three thousand of these enthusiastic and loving dogs left.

The American Water Spaniel is longer in size compared to other spaniels. He has firm legs and a slim yet muscular physique, which make it easier for him to wade through the water. Long muzzle and large hairy ears are other distinguishing characteristics of the breed.

His body is covered with a dense coat that is either wavy or closely knitted curls. It comes in the colour of solid liver, brown, or dark chocolate. Since the American Water Spaniel's coat is thick, it has double layers of fur. It consists of an undercoat for insulation, and a rough, rather oily outer coat for waterproof and to prevent scrapes from hunting.

The American Water Spaniel is a low shedder, although he moults heavily twice a year. Thus, weekly brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and minimise loose hair around your home. The coat is thinner during the summer, so a rubber-tipped brush can be used to tame the curls.

For the rest of the year especially during the shedding season, a slicker brush can be used for the removal of dead hair. Since the American Water Spaniel is still a shaggy dog, bringing him to the groomer at least annually is encouraged to keep him looking sharp and neat. Only bathe him once a month or when he is dirty, as frequent washing removes natural oils, leaving the skin dry.

Weekly ear cleaning is necessary for the American Water Spaniel as he has large ears that accumulate dirt. Flushing and drying after swimming is a must to prevent and lessen the chances of ear infection.

The American Water Spaniel is an affectionate dog that becomes very attached to his owners once they form a strong bond. He can be quite vocal about his love for his family and thrives in a social setting. Children and other pets are not exempted from his affinity and playfulness, which makes him a sweet family companion. He can also be welcoming towards other people provided that they are properly introduced. Keep in mind that socialising the American Water Spaniel at an early age will matter greatly in shaping him to become a people- and animal-loving dog.

Apart from being a great family pet, the American Water Spaniel also makes an excellent watchdog. He will alert you with a warning bark if he senses an intruder. However, his barking may become destructive if he’s bored and alone. The American Water Spaniel enjoys spending time with his human companions and it is best that someone in the family should be home during the day. Moreover, he is more likely to be closest to whoever showers him with the most love and attention.

In training, the American Water Spaniel may tend to be independent and stubborn. However, he is also an intelligent and alert dog that properly responds to consistent and gentle training methods. Be sure to apply positive reinforcement techniques like play, praise, and food rewards as a means to encourage him. Establishing the rules and enforcing them firmly will help in curbing his obstinacy as well.

The American Water Spaniel’s versatility allows him to participate in various dog sports and activities, including tracking, hunt tests, agility, obedience trials, therapy work, and search and rescue. For dog lovers who are looking for an athletic dog that can be trained for different competitions and sports, the American Water Spaniel is a good match.

• Mitral Valve Disease
• Canine Hip Dysplasia
• Patellar Luxation
• Patent Duct Arteriosus
• Pulmonic Stenosis
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy

• Fly ball
• Agility
• Swimming
• Barn hunts
• Rally competitions
• Canoeing
• Dock diving
• Kayaking

Before getting yourself an American Water Spaniel, you must be financially ready to take care of him for the long haul. Purchasing an American Water Spaniel puppy may cost you between £1,000 and £1,200. Purchasing the basic items for your new pup such as a crate, lead, and toys may be worth about £150–£200. Food expenses may amount to £40 a month or £480 a year. Meanwhile, acquiring pet insurance will cost you about £50–£120 a month. Medical care, including vaccinations and regular check-ups, might rack up over £1,000.