The American Water Spaniel is a breed of dog that originated in the United States. They were developed in the 19th century in the Midwest as hunting dogs, particularly for hunting waterfowl in the Great Lakes region.

The American Water Spaniel is the official state dog of Wisconsin. The breed was recognized as the state dog in 1985, making it the only breed of dog to have such a designation in Wisconsin.

They are medium-sized dogs that typically weigh between 25 and 45 pounds and stand around 15 to 18 inches tall. They have a curly, water-resistant coat that can come in a variety of colors, including brown, liver, and chocolate. Their webbed feet and muscular build make them excellent swimmers.

In addition to their hunting abilities, American Water Spaniels are known for being loyal and affectionate family dogs. They are intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being part of a family.

American Water Spaniels have a strong prey drive and love to hunt, making them great hunting companions. They are also versatile dogs that can adapt to different environments, from living in a city apartment to a rural farm.

Due to their loyalty and protective nature, American Water Spaniels make great watchdogs. They are known to be reserved around strangers, but with proper socialization, they can become friendly and outgoing with people they don’t know.

If you are considering getting an American Water Spaniel, it’s important to remember that they are an active breed and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They also need regular grooming to maintain their coat. Proper training and socialization from an early age are also essential for a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog.

Like all dogs, American Water Spaniels can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and allergies. It’s important to maintain regular check-ups with a veterinarian and provide proper nutrition and exercise to keep your dog healthy.

Overall, the American Water Spaniel is a lively and affectionate dog that can make a great addition to an active family that enjoys the outdoors. They are intelligent, trainable, and eager to please their owners, making them a joy to be around.

 

 

Breed Confusion

American Water Spaniel vs. Boykin Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel (AWS) and the Boykin Spaniel are both hunting breeds that were developed in the United States, but they have some distinct differences.

 

Here are some key differences between the two breeds:

Appearance:

• The AWS is a medium-sized dog with a curly, water-resistant coat that is usually brown in color.
• The Boykin Spaniel is also a medium-sized dog, but has a wavy, flat or slightly curly coat that is typically liver or chocolate in color.

 

Purpose:

• While both breeds were developed as hunting dogs, they were bred for different purposes.
• The AWS was primarily used for hunting game in and around bodies of water, such as ducks and other waterfowl.
• The Boykin Spaniel, on the other hand, was originally bred for hunting wild turkeys in South Carolina.

 

Temperament:

• The AWS is known for being intelligent, energetic, and eager to please its owners. They are also typically friendly and outgoing with strangers.
• The Boykin Spaniel is also friendly and outgoing, but can be more reserved with strangers. They are known for being energetic and versatile hunting dogs, but can also make great family companions.

 

Popularity:

• The AWS is a relatively rare breed, with only a few thousand registered with the AKC.
• The Boykin Spaniel is also a relatively rare breed, but has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in the Southeastern United States.

 

Both the American Water Spaniel and the Boykin Spaniel are versatile, intelligent, and affectionate breeds that make great hunting companions and family pets. The choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference and which breed’s traits and characteristics better fit the owner’s lifestyle and needs.

 

 

FUN FACTS

Here are some fun facts about American Water Spaniels:

1. The American Water Spaniel has webbed feet, which help them swim more efficiently.
2. American Water Spaniels are one of the few dog breeds that were developed in the United States.
3. The breed almost became extinct in the 1920s, but dedicated breeders helped bring them back.
4. The American Water Spaniel is a skilled swimmer, and their coat is water-resistant, which makes them great hunting companions for retrieving game from the water.
5. They have a distinctive curly coat with a texture that is described as feeling like a plush carpet that doesn’t shed much, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
6. American Water Spaniels are sometimes called “Little Brown Dogs” because of their brown coat and medium size.
7. The breed is known for their high energy and athleticism, making them a great choice for people who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and hunting.
8. The American Water Spaniel is a rare breed, with only a few thousand registered with the AKC.
9. They are smart and trainable, and can excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.
10. American Water Spaniels are often described as being “happy” dogs, and they love to be around people and other dogs.

 

Famous American Water Spaniels

1. Curly: Curly was an American Water Spaniel who served as the mascot for the University of Wisconsin-Madison from 1934 to 1944. Curly was known for attending football games and other sporting events with his handler, “Doggy” Julian, and for his friendly and outgoing personality.
2. Max: Max was an American Water Spaniel who served as a search and rescue dog during the 9/11 attacks. Max was trained to locate victims in rubble and debris, and worked tirelessly alongside his handler to help search for survivors.
3. Ch. Waterway Gamecock: This American Water Spaniel was the first of his breed to win Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which he did in 1971. Waterway Gamecock was known for his exceptional hunting skills, as well as his good looks and friendly temperament.

 

READY TO ADD AN AMERICAN WATER SPANIEL TO YOUR HOME OR FAMILY?

The American Water Spaniel is a loyal and intelligent breed that makes a great companion for those who enjoy outdoor activities, particularly water-based activities such as swimming and hunting. With proper training and socialization, this breed can be friendly and outgoing with people and other animals, and can adapt well to a variety of living situations, making them a great addition to an active household.

 

Here are some things to consider before getting an American Water Spaniel:

Grooming: American Water Spaniels have a curly, water-resistant coat that requires regular grooming. Brushing their coat at least once a week can help prevent matting and keep their coat looking healthy. They may also need to be trimmed regularly to maintain their coat length. Additionally, they should have their ears checked and cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections.

Exercise: American Water Spaniels are an active breed and require daily exercise. Regular walks, runs, and playtime are essential to keeping them healthy and happy. They also love to swim and retrieve, so providing opportunities for these activities can be beneficial.

Training: American Water Spaniels are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be stubborn. Early socialization and training can help prevent unwanted behaviors and establish a strong bond between the dog and their owner.

Nutrition: Providing a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs is important for maintaining their health. You should talk to your veterinarian to determine the best food for your dog based on their age, activity level, and health.

Health: Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important to catch any health issues early. American Water Spaniels are prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia and ear infections. It’s important to provide them with proper healthcare and to seek treatment promptly if any issues arise.

Love and attention: American Water Spaniels thrive on human interaction and affection. Spending time with your dog and providing them with love and attention is important for their well-being.

By providing proper care, nutrition, and exercise, American Water Spaniels can live happy and healthy lives as loyal companions.

 

Grab your FREE New Puppy Success Guide to help select, prepare for, and train your new puppy!! 

 

If you are interested in buying an American Water Spaniel puppy in the USA, there are a few options available to you:

1. Reputable breeders: You can search for reputable American Water Spaniel breeders in the USA through the American Kennel Club (AKC) website or the American Water Spaniel Club (AWSC). It’s important to do your research and choose a breeder who has a good reputation, health tests their breeding dogs, and raises their puppies in a clean and healthy environment.
2. Rescue organizations: You can also check with American Water Spaniel rescue organizations, such as American Water Spaniel Rescue, which rescue and rehome American Water Spaniels that are in need of a new home. Adopting a dog from a rescue organization is a great way to give a dog a second chance at a happy life.
3. Pet shops and online marketplaces: Keep in mind, however, that while you may be able to find American Water Spaniel puppies for sale in pet shops or online marketplaces, it is important to be cautious as these sources may not always provide healthy or well-bred puppies. It is recommended to purchase only from a reputable breeder or rescue organization to ensure the best possible outcome for both you and the dog.

 

American Water Spaniel Puppy Prices

 

The price of an American Water Spaniel can vary depending on various factors such as the breeder’s reputation, location, lineage, and the quality of the individual dog. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1,500 for an American Water Spaniel puppy. However, prices can range higher or lower than this depending on the specific circumstances.

 

 

Keep in mind that the purchase of any dog is a big decision and responsibility, and it is important to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences.

 

SUMMARY

American Water Spaniel Height: 15-18 inches

American Water Spaniel Weight: 25-45 lbs.

American Water Spaniel Colors: Brown, liver, and chocolate

American Water Spaniel Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, eager-to-please.

American Water Spaniel Life Expectancy: 10-12 years.

 

Overall, American Water Spaniels can make wonderful companions for active individuals or families due to their friendly and intelligent nature, loyalty, and love for outdoor activities.

 

Want some more ways to spread the American Water Spaniel love?

 

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