American Water Spaniel Dogs

Quick Stats for American Water Spaniel Dogs

• Height (at the shoulders): 15 – 18 inches (36 – 46 cm)
• Weight: 25 – 45 pounds (11 – 20 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – recognized in 1940
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in an apartment; moderately active indoors; appreciates an average size yard

Personality of American Water Spaniels

From their names alone you can probably guess that these dogs just love the water. They have a natural ability to swim and hunt. They are also highly skilled retrievers.

The American Water Spaniel makes an excellent family pet. They are intelligent, lovable, and always willing to please their owners. They are usually excellent with children.

Some dogs can be quite shy. Others may actually be somewhat aggressive towards strange dogs.

They are also know to bark loudly, especially if they do not get sufficient mental and physical exercise

History of American Water Spaniel Dogs

No one is certain where the breed actually came from. However, many experts believe that the breed was created from some combination of the Irish Water Spaniel, the Tweed Water Spaniel, the English Water Spaniel, and the Curly Coated Retriever. Although, this theory is simply based on the AWS appearance.

Another popular theory suggests that the American Water Spaniel was created by tribes of American Indians living in the region around the Great Lakes.

Wherever they came from, it is agreed that this dog breed became really popular in the Midwestern United States for being a reliable hunting dog. This is no surprise, considering the dog’s keen sense of smell and their waterproof coats. They are able to hunt in rough terrain, and retrieve a variety of game on land and in the water.

Before 1940, no one seemed interested in breeding the American Water Spaniel for any other purpose than to hunt. In 1940, the AKC officially recognized the breed. Since then, more breeders have taken an increased interest in the breed. However, the AWS is still considered a rare dog breed.

American Water Spaniel Care and Grooming

Like all dogs whose natural instincts are to hunt and retrieve, the American Water Spaniel requires a lot of physical exercise. Their exercise routine should include at least a couple of long daily walks on the leash. However, if possible, some free running around time in a safe area would be a great activity to burn off some energy.

These dogs are okay being outdoors during the day, but will do best if allowed to stay indoors at night with the rest of their family.

The breed has an oily coat and tend to be a bit more work than other dog breeds. Brush the coat at least weekly, but twice a week preferably. Give them a bath only when necessary. Too many baths can remove the natural oils from their coats. It can also dry out the skin. Be aware that the coat may have a strong odor due the amount of oil in the coat.

Occasionally, the hair around the feet, ears, and topknot may need to be clipped.

The breed is a light shedder.

Health Problems of American Water Spaniel Dogs

The average life expectancy of a healthy American Water Spaniel is about twelve to fifteen years.

The only major health concern for the breed is mitral valve disease. Other minor health issue include PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus), CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), and pulmonic stenosis. A few dogs may show signs of PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and patellar luxation, but these are rare cases.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

American Water Spaniel (Comprehensive Owner's Guide)

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