American Water Spaniel

also known as American Brown Spaniel, American Brown Water Spaniel, AWS

Pros History


The American Water Spaniel is a rare and versatile hunting breed that originated in Wisconsin, where it is officially the state dog. The breed was developed in the early 19th century in the areas along the Fox River and its tributary the Wolf River by hunters who needed a dog that could work on both land and water, and bring in a variety of game.

The American Water Spaniel's ancestors are thought to include the English Water Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Curly Coated Retriever, native Indian Dogs, the Poodle, and either the Sussex Spaniel or another type of field spaniel. This little brown dog was known at the time as the American Brown Spaniel and weighed around 40 pounds, it had a thick curly coat that protected it from the cold temperatures of the water and winter.

The breed's numbers began to decline in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to a reduction in the duck population and a switch in hunting from a means to gather food for survival to that of recreation. However, in the early 1900s, Dr. Fred J. Pfeifer of New London, Wisconsin recognized that the little brown spaniels, so well-known in his area, were actually a distinguishable breed. He led an effort to gain recognition of what would eventually be called the American Water Spaniel by petitioning the dog registries to recognize the breed. Pfeifer bred and sold American Water Spaniels, formed a breed club, and helped to develop a breed standard. Through his efforts, the breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1920 and by the Field Stud Book in 1938 and American Kennel Club in 1940.

The American Water Spaniel's dense, curly coat helps to protect them from the cold water as well as from briars in the woods. Standing about 15-18 inches at the shoulder and weighing in between 24-45 pounds, the breed is considered a medium-sized sporting breed. Their medium-size allows waterfowl hunter to take him in a little boat or canoe and they will tenderly retrieve grouse, quail, pheasant, and ducks. They are also known for having a good nose and are great at tracking.

Despite its recognition by the AKC, the American Water Spaniel remains a rare breed, with an estimated 3000 in existence today. The majority of the American Water Spaniel owners and breeders are found in Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and the surrounding states. The breed is still used for hunting, particularly for waterfowl, but also for other small game. They also make great companion dogs for active families.

Breed Information


Type

Is American Water Spaniel a purebred?

Purebred

Pronunciation

How do you pronounce the American Water Spaniel name? How do you say American Water Spaniels?

uh-mer-i-kuh n waw-ter span-yuh l

Purpose

What were American Water Spaniels originally used for?

bird flushing, retrieving

Lifespan

How Long Do American Water Spaniels Live? What is average life expectancy for an American Water Spaniel? How long can American Water Spaniels live?

10-13 years

The average American Water Spaniel lifespan is somewhere between 10-13 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

American Water Spaniel Height & Weight


How big is a full grown American Water Spaniel?

What is the average height of an American Water Spaniel? How big is an Purebred American Water Spaniel height? American Water Spaniel dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 15-18 inches (38.1 - 45.7 cm) 12.0 inches (30.5 cm) 14.0 inches (35.6 cm) 16.5 inches (41.9 cm)
Female 15-18 inches (38.1 - 45.7 cm) 12.0 inches (30.5 cm) 14.0 inches (35.6 cm) 16.5 inches (41.9 cm)
What is the average weight of an American Water Spaniel? How much should American Water Spaniels weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 30-45 pounds (14 - 20 kg) 18.5 pounds (8 kg) 25.0 pounds (11 kg) 32.5 pounds (15 kg)
Female 25-35 pounds (11 - 16 kg) 16.5 pounds (7 kg) 23.0 pounds (10 kg) 30.0 pounds (14 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do American Water Spaniels get fat easily?

The American Water Spaniel is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are American Water Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the American Water Spaniel is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is an American Water Spaniel personality? What are American Water Spaniel dogs best known for?

Energetic
Intelligent
Protective
Friendly
Obedient
Trainable

Shedding Level

Are American Water Spaniels heavy shedders? How Much Does an American Water Spaniel Shed?

American Water Spaniel will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of an American Water Spaniel dog?

American Water Spaniels are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the American Water Spaniel is going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Breed History


Origin

Where do American Water Spaniels come from?

United States

Ancestry

What are American Water Spaniels descended from?

spaniel, retriever

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the American Water Spaniel breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were American Water Spaniels first bred? How old is the American Water Spaniel breed?

1800s

Breed Group

What Breed Group is an American Water Spaniel?

Sporting (AKC:1940)
Gun Dog (UKC)

American Water Spaniel Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are American Water Spaniel eyes?

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can American Water Spaniel nose be naturally?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can American Water Spaniel coat be naturally?

Black
Brown
Red
Sable

Coat Length

How long is an American Water Spaniels coat?

The coat of an American Water Spaniel falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The American Water Spaniel Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of an American Water Spaniel?

Wavy

Litter Size

How many puppies can an American Water Spaniel have in a litter? How many puppies can an American Water Spaniel have in her first litter?

10-13 puppies per pregnancy

An American Water Spaniel can have a litter of 10-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

American Water Spaniels are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

American Water Spaniel Health Issues


Health Issues

Do American Water Spaniels have a lot of health problems?

The American Water Spaniel is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning an American Water Spaniel?

Mitral Valve Disease
Degenerative Myelopathy

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to American Water Spaniels?

Distichiasis
Lenticular Opacities
Hip Dysplasia
Heart Disease

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for American Water Spaniel breed?

Hip X-Rays
Heart
Eye Examination

American Water Spaniel Needs and Activities


Energy

Do American Water Spaniels have a lot of energy?

American Water Spaniels are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Do American Water Spaniels need socialization? How social are American Water Spaniels?

American Water Spaniel have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should American Water Spaniels get?

The American Water Spaniel needs a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should an American Water Spaniel have? Do American Water Spaniels sleep a lot?

American Water Spaniels are active dogs that don't require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Does an American Water Spaniel drool a lot?

The American Water Spaniel is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

American Water Spaniels tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Do American Water Spaniels exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Are American Water Spaniels mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of an American Water Spaniel running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do American Water Spaniel dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do American Water Spaniels enjoy doing? How do I keep my American Water Spaniel busy?

Swim, Walk, Run

Activity Level

What is the energy level of an American Water Spaniel? How much energy does an American Water Spaniel have?

Medium

American Water Spaniels are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should an American Water Spaniel walk each week? How many miles should an American Water Spaniel walk every week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For American Water Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much an American Water Spaniel should exercise a day? How much activity does an American Water Spaniel need?

60 minutes

In general most American Water Spaniels usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for an American Water Spaniel?

The American Water Spaniel is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush an American Water Spaniel?

Daily

Ideally, American Water Spaniel should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for American Water Spaniels?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Deshedder
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does an American Water Spaniel eat?

2.5 cups

For an average 30-45 pound (14 - 20 kg) American Water Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does an American Water Spaniel Cost Daily?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an American Water Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does an American Water Spaniel Cost Per Month?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an American Water Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

American Water Spaniel Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is an American Water Spaniel?

American Water Spaniels has average obedience intelligence. But, they're also independent thinkers. The American Water Spaniel is a breed with an exceptionally high IQ and may get into mischief if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is an American Water Spaniel dog?

This dog breed is particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. It can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, and unfamiliar people or animals. This dog is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are American Water Spaniel dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do American Water Spaniel do well in apartments? Are American Water Spaniels good indoor dogs?

American Water Spaniels are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Are American Water Spaniels good with kids? Are American Water Spaniels good around children?

A American Water Spaniels typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Senior-friendly

Are American Water Spaniels good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are American Water Spaniels good with cats? How friendly American Water Spaniels are toward cats?

American Water Spaniels are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Dog Friendly

Do American Water Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs? Are American Water Spaniels OK with other dogs?

American Water Spaniels are below average dog friendly dogs. American Water Spaniel dogs may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with,

Pet friendly

How do American Water Spaniel dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are American Water Spaniels friendly with strangers?

American Water Spaniels are very friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Do American Water Spaniels like to play? Are American Water Spaniels playful?

American Water Spaniels are known to be highly playful dog. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting a slightly older American Water Spaniel for a mellower experience.

Trainability

Are American Water Spaniel easily trained?

American Water Spaniel dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Boat Dog
    The American Water Spaniel breed typically enjoys being on boats.
  • Minimal to no shedding
    American Water Spaniel shedding is none to minimal and easy to maintain.
  • Versatile
    American Water Spaniels are versatile dogs that excel at hunting, retrieving, and agility.
  • Apartment Friendly
    American Water Spaniel are the perfect breed for apartment living.
  • Affectionate
    American Water Spaniels are known to be affectionate and loyal towards their owners.

Cons

  • High energy
    American Water Spaniels have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
  • Not Hypoallergenic
    People prone to allergies may have a reaction to American Water Spaniels, as they are not considered a hypoallergenic breed.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    American Water Spaniels are not suited to the office environment
  • Rare
    American Water Spaniels are a rare breed, making them difficult to find and purchase.