The American Water Spaniel is also the state dog of Wisconsin, probably because the breed was developed there. The dog has been used for hunting and all-farm activities since 18th century. The origins of the breed remain unknown but what can be said is that it was developed near Great Lakes area as a dog that could hunt as well as retrieve.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Gun Dog, Companion
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Color: Brown, dark chocolate and solid liver with a little white on chest and toes
Coat: Double, wavy, curly and oily
Average Height: 15-18 inches
Average Weight: 25-45 pounds
Group: Gun Dog, AKC Sporting Group
History and Domestication
The exact origins of this breed are unknown but what can be said is that the breed was originally developed in Minnesota and Wisconsin in the US.
The breed shares its ancestry with Irish Water Spaniel and Curly-coated Retriever.
This was the first breed in the US that could retrieve from boats apart from hunting and was recognized by AKC in 1940.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This dog is muscular, active and hardy. It has a broad head which is moderately long and in proportion to rest of the body. The muzzle is square in shape and medium in length. The nose is black or brown in color and has large nostrils. Depending on its coat color, the color of the eyes also varies from yellow-brown to dark brown and hazel brown. The ears are long and hanging at eye level and are covered with curls. The tail is well- feathered and tapers at the base.
Care, Grooming and Health
The American Water Spaniel has an oily coat which needs thorough brushing twice a week. Bathe him only when necessary as bathing rips his coat off from natural oils and dries out the skin. Due to the presence of oils, its coat may also have a strong smell. American Water Spaniels are light shedders.
These dogs are prone to skin problems. They also need a lot of physical exercise including long daily walks.
Living Conditions
As long as these dogs get enough exercise, they will do fine in an apartment. The dogs are not much active indoors but will do well in an average sized yard. They also like to roam in search of quarry.
Temperament
The dogs from this breed are very intelligent and trainable. American Water Spaniels are enthusiastic about their work and always eager to learn. The dog is used as a guard dog and a companion too. But above all, the dog is used for hunting duck, quail, rabbits and grouse. The dog is highly sensitive and pleasant so it requires very calm, firm and persuasive obedience training. The dogs should also be socialized at an early age to avoid timidity or dog-aggressiveness in later stages. The breed likes to roam and drool.
