American Water Spaniel

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Size: Medium
Other Names: AWS
Country of Origin: United States (Wisconsin)
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Sporting
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Sporting
United Kennel Club (UKC): Gun Dog
The Kennel Club (KC): Gun Dogs
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized

The American Water Spaniel is a compact, sturdy spaniel with a dense curly or marcel coat and a well-feathered tail. The head is moderately broad, and the ears are long and dropped.

A medium hunting spaniel for a household that will walk and swim him; the curly coat needs modest upkeep, and he is happier with a job than with idle apartment hours.

The American Water Spaniel was developed in the Great Lakes region, especially Wisconsin, as a small boat dog for ducks and upland birds. It is the state dog of Wisconsin and remains a dual hunting and family breed. The AKC places it in the Sporting Group; the UKC classes it as a Gun Dog.

Height: 15–18 inches
Weight: 25–45 pounds
Color: Solid liver, brown, or dark chocolate; a little white on toes or chest is allowed
Coat: Closely curled or with a marcel wave; waterproof undercoat
Lifespan: 10–14 years
Litter size: 4–6 puppies

Temperament

These spaniels are eager, friendly, and often devoted to one household. They can be reserved with strangers and may bark to announce visitors. They like water and will invent jobs if they are bored.

Training

They respond to upbeat, consistent training. Early retrieving games and quiet gun introduction suit a dog that was bred to work from a skiff.

Care and grooming

Brush the curly coat weekly to prevent mats, and dry the ears after swimming. Do not shave the coat if the dog still works in cold water.

Shedding

Low to moderate.

Health

American Water Spaniels may develop hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. Keep ears clean; the dropped, coated ear traps moisture.

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