American Water Spaniel: Breed characteristics and information
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The American Water Spaniel is a medium sized spaniel breed that makes a good family dog. They are one of the few breeds originating from the U.S.
Physical Characteristics
- Small to medium build
- Muscular
- Wavy or curly coat
- Coat: Brown or dark chocolate hair
- Height: 15-18 inches
- Weight: 25-45 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
- Smart, energetic, playful, obedient, eager to please
- Interaction with people: Excellent with children
- Interaction with animals: Good with other dogs
- Training: Needs comfortable, light training
- Bark: Moderately vocal
- Protection: Good guard dog
At Home
- OK for apartments with enough exercise
- Needs average-sized yard
Grooming
- Light shedder
- Brush twice a week
Brief History
- Native to the U.S.
- Bred as a hunting and farm dog
- Related to the Irish water spaniel and curly-coated retriever
Fido's Facts
- First breed to hunt and retrieve from boats
- Originally a working gun dog
- State dog of Wisconsin
Medical Conditions
- Acquired cardiac disease (including Mitral valve disease seen in older dogs)
- Congenital cardiac disease (including pulmonic stenosis)
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (including progressive retinal atrophy)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
For more information about this breed and breeder referral
contacts, please visit the American Water Spaniel Club.
For breed rescue opportunities visit AWS Rescue.
