Is the American Water Spaniel right for you?
- 1American Water Spaniels are known for their intelligence, obedience, and friendliness.
- 2American Water Spaniel dogs generally do well with families and chidren as long as they're the center of attention.
- 3The AWS is suitable as an apartment dog, provided they get ample exercise.
HISTORY
Even though we are unaware of the origin of this breed, the American Water Spaniel is thought to have been assisting on the farm and in hunts since the 18th century. Possibly a cross between the Curly Coated Retriever and the Irish Water Spaniel, this breed was first developed in America with the purpose of helping on boats and in the hunt. They were first admitted by the AKC in 1940.
Quick Facts
Size
Medium, Large
Lifespan
10-12 years
Hair Length
Medium, Short
Male Height
15-18 inches (36-46 cm)
Male Weight
25-45 pounds (11-20 kg)
Female Height
15-18 inches (36-46 cm)
Female Weight
23-42 pounds (11-20 kg)
Litter Size
4-6 puppies per litter
Personality
The American Water Spaniel is a bright, easily trainable dog that loves to help out. A great bird hunting dog, the American Water Spaniel can also be an effective guard dog as well as a great all around companion. Friendly and loving to play with, these dogs are great with kids and make for a stellar family dog. They should be socialized early to prevent timidity, but that aside, these dogs are exceedingly pleasant. .
Color
The American Water Spaniel is either liver or chocolate in color with or without small white patches on the chest and white on the toes.
Health Concerns
The breed is known to suffer from:
- cataracts
- progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- hypothyroidism
- allergies
- epilepsy
- glandular disorders
- baldness
- diabetes
- hip dysplasia
Appearance
The American Water Spaniel is a very athletic breed, with a fit and firm body. They have a somewhat long body, a square muzzle, wide set eyes, and long, droopy ears. Their fur is curly and water resistant.
