American Water Spaniels

Appearance:

Body: Sturdy with a well developed back.

Coat: A dense marcel (uniform wave) to curly coat with a dense undercoat.

Color: Liver, brown or chocolate.

Ears: Long and curly.

Eyes: Hazel-brown, brown, or yellowish-brown in color, slightly rounded and set wide apart.

Face: Smooth

Feet: Well-padded with tightly positioned toes.

Head: Moderately long with a broad skull and moderately defined stop.

Legs: Forelegs are straight and well-boned with webbed, well-padded toes. Hind legs are well-developed and strong.

Neck: Round, muscular and somewhat arched.

Size:
Weight: 25 - 45 pounds (11 - 20kg)
Height: 15 to 18 inches (36 - 46cm)

Tail: Medium length and tapered.

Behavior

Recommended for novice dog handlers.
Known for their barking and yodeling.

The American Water Spaniel is a friendly, intelligent breed of dog that trains easily and makes a great companion. They are known to be good with children if raised with them and if the children are respectful of them. This is a sensitive breed of dog and won't put up with teasing or abuse of any kind. They can be protective of what is theirs and defensive if mistreated.

The AWS can be stubborn and even aggressive if not socialized and trained properly when young. Because of their hunting instincts, the American Water Spaniel is best kept on a leash or in an enclosed area. Being a hunting breed, the American Water Spaniel requires a good deal of regular exercise and play time.

If you are a novice and considering this dog breed, it would be best to seek the advice of a professional trainer. The American Water Spaniel responds best to gentle but firm training. They may become shy and possibly bite out of fear if they are subjected to harsh treatment.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Sporting Group (Spaniels)
The American Water Spaniel was originally developed as a hunting dog that could function on land as well as in the marsh and that could easily fit into a canoe or skiff without taking up much room.

As there name implies, this dog is a water dog capable of swimming in rough waters using his tail like a rudder.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: The AWS is a hunting breed and requires a great deal of exercise and play to stay fit. Do not confine this dog for any length of time or they may become anxious and, possibly, destructive.

Grooming: Moderate maintenance is all that is required. Brush weekly and trim lengthy hair when needed.

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 Years

Possible Problems:
Allergies
Cancer
Cardiac Abnormalities
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism (deficiency of the thyroid secretion)

Country of Origin

United States - developed in Wisconsin