American Water Spaniel
Characteristics, Training and Care Guide

The American Water Spaniel dog, as the name implies, is a water dog and considered an excellent and versatile hunter, being capable of flushing and retrieving and working both on the ground as well as retrieving from boats.

The AWS is an "all American" canine having been developed in the mid-western United States and more specifically rooted to Wisconsin around the Wolf and Fox River Valley region.

Subsequently it became the state dog of Wisconsin in 1985 and is considered a quite rare dog breed.

The development of the breed is subject to speculation, but based on its physical appearance, many authorities have concluded that various water spaniels, including the Irish and Old English water spaniels, as well as the Curly Coated Retriever, are likely contributors to its lineage.

Once known as the American Brown Spaniel, the AWS was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1920 and The American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1940.

Characteristics and Traits

The American Water Spaniel dog is classified along with other spaniels, retrievers, setters etc., in the sporting dog breed group of the AKC, but he is second to none in his hunting abilities within this category!

He has a friendly and loyal disposition and being very people-oriented he makes an excellent family companion, as well as an alert watchdog.

This AWS is known for his high intelligence and is considered to be very trainable. Although he is an enthusiastic learner, his temperament is rather sensitive and he won't respond well to anything approaching harshness.

Training will go a lot more smoothly if carried out with a gentle hand.

Early socialization is also very desirable and helpful in encouraging a well-balanced demeanor and to diffuse any tendency toward timid or aggressive behavior.

He has been seen and known to do well in competitive hunting trials at dog shows.

Health of the American Water Spaniel

With the benefit of sufficient exercise, good nutrition and care, plus regular veterinary check-ups, the American Water Spaniel  can be expected to live up to 13 years or even 14 years without a lot of health problems.

However, there are some health conditions associated with the breed to keep in mind. Among them are diseases suspected of being inherited that relate to the eyes such as PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) and cataracts. Prospective owners should expect responsible breeders to screen the parents for these conditions.

Some other issues that may affect the America Water Spaniel include:

• Allergies
  

• Epilepsy
  

• Diabetes, and
  

• Glandular disorders.
  

Hip dysplasia - common in many breeds, is a relatively lower concern in the AWS. However the American Water Spaniel breed club does recommend screening for this along with eye disorders, and cardiac abnormalities, carried out in line with OFA and CERF protocols.

TIP: If you are looking to buy a healthy puppy, locate a reputable breeder by visiting the breed club which maintains a directory on their site.  Above all, stay away from pet shops and online ads. By all means, look into dog health insurance which is more affordable the younger the pet.

If you are not committed to having a puppy, consider looking into adopting an adult spaniel through a breed shelter or a rescue group. One advantage of a mature AWS is that you would have a clearer picture of its health condition.

Nutrition

The AWS should be fed a high-quality dog food, either from a commercial source or from carefully balanced homemade meals. Naturally, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian about diet after having done your own research. 

Any diet should be appropriate to the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior).

Appearance and Grooming

Height: 15-18 inches
Weight: Female: 25 to 40 pounds  Male: 30 to 45 pounds
Color variations: Solid liver, brown or dark chocolate

The American Water Spaniel dog is medium sized, attractive and sturdy. He has a dense double coat, fully furnished long ears, webbed toes and a longish tail that tends toward feathery.

The coat will be either densely curled or wavy and is seen in various rich shades of brown.

The coarse outer layer of the coat is both waterproof and protective against rough terrain. Warmth is provided by the inner layer. It has an oily texture and can be either wavy or very curly and is quite dense.

Maintenance consists of a thorough brushing about two or three times a week. Shedding is generally moderate but is a bit heavier when the undercoat thins during warmer weather.

High quality brushes will make grooming easier on your AWS and you! 

To glide through the coat with ease, try this fusion brush. To remove dead hair and debris from the undercoat, this slicker brush will get the job done. A good comb is worth its weight in gold to release any mats or tangles in the coat. A pet dremel or clippers can be used for grinding or clipping the nails monthly. Nail trimming is important for stability, especially for dogs that work in the field.

Check your dog's ears, especially after swimming, clean when needed and dry well. Also, keep the hair around the ears trimmed to help with air circulation. Clean teeth every day or at least 3 times a week. Dental disease can be life threatening so it's an important part of grooming. 

Bathing your dog may be needed after swimming or just when the coat looks dirty. 

Activity Level

The AWS needs to be exercised one to three hours a day depending on his life stage, and if this can include an opportunity to swim, he will be a happy dog. 

Like most sporting breeds, the American Water Spaniel has a strong desire to be active.  There are many competitive canine events to meet his needs, some of which you can participate and enjoy with your spaniel. They include:

• Agility

• AKC Rally

• Fly-ball
  

• Hunt/Field Trials

• Obedience Trials

These events are great opportunities to exercise and mentally fulfill your spaniel as well as to have fun with him.

Without sufficient exercise or mental stimulation, the AWS may invent his own activity by becoming destructive and bark more for attention.

Space Needs

The AWS is not fussy about accommodations as long as he has frequent opportunities for exercise.

Being of a modest size he can do well in an apartment, although a yard is always a plus for play time, training or additional exercise.

The AWS With Children

American Water Spaniels are good-natured dogs that love attention and generally get along well with children. One thing to consider is their high energy which suggests they are a better choice for families with older children.

The best policy no matter what the breed, is to always have an adult closely supervise activities between pets and children.

With Seniors or Sedentary Families

This breed is very loyal and would make a good companion for active owners who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. The high energy of the AWS is a serious consideration as well as the need for regular exercise. 

Where to Buy or Adopt an American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel is not a common breed and will be a little harder to find as a rescue. That being said, local shelters and rescue groups are places worth checking and asking to be notified if one becomes available.

If you’re looking for a puppy or a rescue, these reputable sites are good sources to check for availability and more information:

• American Water Spaniel Club
• American Water Spaniel Rescue

Contacting a reputable breeder that has conducted the recommended health tests to ensure that the health of the litter is the best way to secure a healthy puppy. Expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,500 depending on several factors, such as health testing, pedigree, breed type, reputation of the breeder and your location. 

When meeting with a breeder be sure to meet the parents of the puppies and take note of the environment in which they are being cared for.  Have your questions ready such as: what the parents are like, how the puppies are being socialized and if the breeder will be available for later support. 

It is recommended to avoid casual (or backyard) breeders, since these breeders may not prioritize the health of the puppies or perform proper health testing on the parents.

FAQs

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Veterinary & Medical Sources

Health information on this site is based on research from trusted veterinary and animal health authorities and is written for general educational purposes.
Content was developed using guidance from veterinary teaching institutions, animal welfare organizations, and established veterinary reference manuals, including:
– University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
– Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine
– ASPCA
– Merck Veterinary Manual
– Merck Animal Health (USA)

This content is not intended to replace professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian with questions or concerns about your dog’s health.

Book Recommendation

Retriever Training For Spaniels: A book designed for training the hunting spaniel, which takes into account that Spaniels differ in temperament from Labrador Retrievers and require gentler techniques to train them. Achieve amazing results with your pup through positive reinforcement and clicker training.  You and your puppy progress at your own rate. Find everything from puppy kindergarten to the conditioned retrieve.

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