American Water Spaniel Breed Information: Characteristics, Behavior, Temperament, Lifespan, Weight

American water spaniels are among the few dog breeds that truly originated in the United States, specifically in the Great Lakes region. These versatile hunting companions were bred to retrieve game from boats and work quickly on land.

These medium-sized dogs pack a lot of character into their compact frames, standing 15 to 18 inches tall and weighing between 25 to 45 pounds. The breed’s intelligent, active, and affectionate temperament makes them loyal family pets while they retain their working dog abilities. These dogs live 10 to 14 years [-5], giving their owners plenty of time to enjoy their companionship.

The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 1940. The breed combines a hunting dog’s practical skills with an even-tempered nature that makes them perfect for family life. In this piece, we’ll explore what potential owners should know about the American water spaniel’s characteristics, behavior patterns, care requirements, and more.

Breed Overview and History

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Developed during the early 19th century, the American Water Spaniel became America’s unique breed that could handle tough hunting conditions in the Upper Midwest. Settlers and market hunters across the Great Lakes region found this compact yet hardy hunting companion invaluable.

Origin in the Great Lakes region

Wisconsin’s Wolf and Fox River valleys gave birth to the American Water Spaniel. The breed’s exact origins remain mysterious, but breed historians agree these dogs have stayed true to type since around the 1870s. The mid-sized, curly-coated hunting companion adapted perfectly to the Great Lakes’ marshy banks and cold waters.

Frontier settlers needed these versatile dogs – a compact, tough breed that could withstand harsh weather. Practical necessity shaped the breed rather than fancy breeding programs. Market hunters valued these dogs especially when they had small skiffs and canoes since the dogs wouldn’t tip them over.

Several theories explain the American Water Spaniel’s ancestry:

• Early theories suggested a combination of Curly-Coated Retriever and Field Spaniel
• Later theories proposed a mix of Curly-Coated and Flat-Coated Retrievers
• Modern consensus points to influences from the extinct English Water Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, and Curly-Coated Retriever

Purpose as a hunting and retrieving dog

American Water Spaniels excel in both water and upland environments. These versatile hunting companions show remarkable skill at retrieving waterfowl and flushing upland game.

Market hunters in the 19th century loved these dogs because of their practical size and amazing retrieving abilities. Stories tell of hunters who paddled out in punts and skiffs, sometimes catching hundreds of ducks in one outing while their American Water Spaniels retrieved the game faithfully.

The breed stands out because it combines spaniel and retriever traits. These dogs show:

• Fast working style with high prey drive
• Tenacious hunting instinct and exceptional scenting ability
• Methodical work patterns that keep them close to the hunter
• Natural swimming ability and determination in water

These dogs thrive in different terrains – from icy lakes where they retrieve waterfowl to dense undergrowth where they flush game birds. Their compact size makes boat entry and exit easy, while their waterproof coats suit Wisconsin’s cold, marshy hunting grounds perfectly.

Recognition and rarity of the breed

Local hunters treasured these dogs for generations before they received formal recognition. Dr. Fred J. Pfeifer of New London, Wisconsin, earned his title as the “Father of the American Water Spaniel” through his work to preserve and promote the breed.

Dr. Pfeifer started breeding these dogs systematically in 1906 and kept detailed records proving the breed’s consistency. His dedication led to:

• United Kennel Club recognition in 1920
• Field Dog Stud Book registration in 1938
• American Kennel Club recognition in 1940

The American Water Spaniel remains rare today. The breed’s numbers dropped after World War II as hunters gained access to specialized hunting dogs. Wisconsin honored its native breed by making it the state dog in 1985.

The American Water Spaniel ranks among America’s rarest breeds currently. Only about 2,500-3,000 registered American Water Spaniels exist. The AKC registers fewer than 200 new dogs yearly – half the number from just twenty years ago.

Physical Characteristics and Appearance

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The American Water Spaniel stands out among sporting dogs with its unique blend of practicality and charm that showcases its working roots. These dogs have muscular bodies built for both field and water work, which perfectly suited their original Great Lakes hunters’ needs.

American Water Spaniel size and build

Standing between 15 to 18 inches tall at the withers, American Water Spaniels pack plenty of strength into their medium-sized frames. Their well-proportioned body is slightly longer than tall, which creates a balanced look that isn’t too square or compact.

These dogs have a strong, muscular build with good bone structure that supports their active lifestyle. Their solid construction gives them enough stamina for long days of hunting. Male American Water Spaniels usually reach 18 inches at the withers, and females measure about 17 inches. Both sexes fit within this height range.

The breed’s perfect mix of substance and agility sets it apart. American Water Spaniels have:

• A broad skull with long, wide ears
• Well-muscled body with moderate bone
• Compact yet powerful frame
• Natural, undocked tail

Their resilient build helps them direct through rough terrain and cold waters with equal ease, making them versatile sporting partners.

Coat type and color variations

The breed’s standout feature is its unique coat that serves both practical and esthetic purposes. American Water Spaniels have a dense, waterproof double coat that kept them protected during cold-water retrieving work in the harsh Great Lakes region.

The coat shows up in two main patterns:

• Tightly curled: Uniform, defined curls covering the body
• Marcel pattern: Distinctive waves that fall in a regular pattern

The outer layer stays coarse to repel water and protect against rough vegetation, while the inner layer provides important insulation. This design let these dogs work in harsh weather conditions.

The breed comes in liver, brown, or dark chocolate shades. You might see a small amount of white on the chest or toes, but it’s minimal. The breed standard says the eye color should go together with the coat color and should never be yellow.

American Water Spaniel weight in kg

American Water Spaniels keep a moderate weight that matches their size and working role. Males usually weigh between 30-45 pounds (13.6-20.4 kg), and females are lighter at 25-40 pounds (11.3-18.1 kg).

Here’s how the weight breaks down by gender:

Males:

• Imperial: 30-45 pounds
• Metric: 13.6-20.4 kg

Females:

• Imperial: 25-40 pounds
• Metric: 11.3-18.1 kg

This weight range makes American Water Spaniels heavy enough for demanding work but light enough to stay agile. Their weight made them perfect for hunting from small boats since they wouldn’t tip over a skiff or canoe.

The American Water Spaniel’s physical traits show a dog bred for function first. From their muscular build to their protective coat and practical size, everything about their appearance serves their original purpose as versatile hunting partners who could work well in America’s Upper Midwest’s challenging conditions.

Temperament and Behavior Traits

American Water Spaniels stand out from other hunting breeds with their unique personality that combines strong work ethics and companionship. These adaptable dogs have a temperament that makes them great at both fieldwork and family life, as long as you meet their needs.

American Water Spaniel temperament with family

These dogs make wonderful family companions. They’re smart, obedient, and affectionate – qualities that make them beloved members of their human families. They build deep connections with family members and often become especially attached to one main caregiver.

Yes, it is their intelligence and loving nature that makes them such great family pets once they’re properly socialized. They need regular attention from their people. These sensitive dogs might develop separation anxiety if left alone too long, which can lead to whining, barking, or destructive behavior.

American Water Spaniels get along with children in specific ways:

• They show patience with respectful older children
• Socializing them early is vital for good interactions
• They do better in homes where kids know how to handle dogs

Their sensitive nature makes them different from other sporting breeds. They really want to please their owners but can get discouraged by harsh words or rough handling. This means owners should use positive reinforcement instead of punishment during training.

Behavior around strangers and other pets

While they’re warm with family, American Water Spaniels tend to be reserved around new people. This doesn’t usually show up as aggression – they just take a wait-and-see approach with strangers.

These dogs make good watchdogs because of their natural wariness. Getting them used to different people early helps them respond better to strangers without being too shy or suspicious.

They usually fit in well with other pets if introduced properly:

• They get along with other dogs and pets
• Early exposure to other animals helps
• Their hunting instincts make them chase birds
• They often prefer human company over other dogs

Their hunting background means they love exploring and might wander off without proper fencing or a leash during walks.

Energy levels and playfulness

These dogs have lots of energy, thanks to their working dog background. They need at least 30 minutes of intense exercise daily to stay happy and well-behaved.

They thrive in active households where they can:

• Swim (they naturally love retrieving from water)
• Play fetch games that satisfy their retrieving instincts
• Go running and hiking
• Join hunting activities that use their natural skills

American Water Spaniels might become destructive or bark too much without enough physical and mental exercise. A quick morning walk won’t be enough for these active dogs – they need more.

All the same, they can adapt pretty well. They’ll adjust to different homes, even apartments, if they get enough exercise. At home, they strike a nice balance – full of energy during activities but relaxed during family downtime.

Lifespan and Health Considerations

American Water Spaniels lead healthy, active lives full of companionship when they receive proper care and regular vet checkups. These remarkable sporting dogs need owners who understand what health issues might come up so they can give the right preventive care.

Average American Water Spaniel lifespan

American Water Spaniels live 10 to 14 years on average, giving families more than a decade with their furry friends. The American Water Spaniel Club reports that dogs can live even longer – 12 to 15 years – with good food, enough exercise, and regular medical care.

These versatile hunting companions stay energetic and vital through their senior years if they get the right nutrition and regular vet care. Their longer lifespan makes them great long-term partners for active families, especially compared to bigger breeds.

Common health issues in the breed

American Water Spaniels are quite hardy. In spite of that, future owners should know about several health conditions these dogs might face:

Hip dysplasia shows up in about 8% of American Water Spaniels, which is lower than many other sporting breeds. This inherited orthopedic condition makes the femoral head rub wrongly in the hip socket and can lead to arthritis. Dogs might show lameness, have trouble getting up, or avoid running and climbing stairs.

Cardiac concerns need attention too. Mitral valve disease stands out as the breed’s biggest heart-related problem. Pulmonic stenosis and patent ductus arteriosus sometimes occur as well.

Eye problems that show up often include:

• Cataracts – cloudy lenses that can affect vision
• Progressive retinal atrophy – starts with night blindness and can lead to total blindness
• Distichiasis – abnormal eyelash growth that irritates the eye
• Retinal dysplasia – improper retinal development

Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord disorder like human ALS, can affect middle-aged dogs. Dogs between 8-11 years old first show weakness in their back legs, which might eventually cause paralysis.

Pattern baldness might affect young American Water Spaniels before their first birthday. Hair loss happens evenly on both sides of the body and often clears up without treatment.

Epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and diabetes sometimes appear in these dogs too.

Recommended health screenings

Good breeders test their breeding dogs based on these health concerns. The American Water Spaniel Club works with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) to recommend three key health tests:

1. Hip dysplasia screening – OFA reviews X-rays after age 2, accepting ratings of Excellent, Good, or Fair as normal
2. Eye examination – A board-certified ophthalmologist must do this test through the Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) within a year before breeding and keep testing until the dog turns eight
3. Cardiac evaluation – A vet cardiologist or OFA-certified vet should do either an OFA Basic Cardiac Exam within a year before breeding OR an Advanced Cardiac Exam once after the first year

Dogs that complete these tests get Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) certification. This certification shows both passing and failing results, which helps everyone understand the dog’s health status better.

Anyone looking to buy an American Water Spaniel puppy should ask to see health clearances for both parents and grandparents if possible. This careful approach helps ensure puppies have the best possible genetic health foundation.

Grooming and Maintenance Needs

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American Water Spaniel’s distinctive waterproof coat needs specific care routines to protect its function and looks. The coat serves a practical purpose that helps these dogs excel in their natural hunting environments.

Brushing and coat care routine

American Water Spaniels need weekly brushing with the right tools to keep their coat healthy. This routine removes debris, prevents matting, and maintains the coat’s texture. Regular brushing also cuts down shedding around your home.

You’ll need different brushing approaches based on the season:

• A slicker brush works best to remove dead undercoat hair in cold months when the coat is thick
• A rubber-tipped pin brush does the job in summer when the coat thins out

You should check your dog’s coat after outdoor activities. These dogs pick up burrs, sticks, and leaves while running through fields or swimming. It also helps to trim the hair between their toes to stop debris from building up and causing discomfort.

Bathing frequency and ear care

American Water Spaniels don’t need frequent baths – once every three months or when they get dirty works fine. Too much bathing strips away natural oils that make their coat water-repellent. Here’s what you should do when bathing:

1. Brush out dead hair and mats first
2. Use gentle dog shampoos made for water dogs
3. Rinse really well to avoid skin irritation
4. Let the coat air dry

These dogs can get ear infections from swimming. You should dry and clean their ears after every swim or bath. Monthly ear cleaning is a must:

• Put in a vet-approved ear cleaning solution
• Massage the ear base for about a minute
• Let your dog shake their head
• Clean just the outer ear canal with cotton balls

Check their ears weekly to stop hair from growing in the ear canal that might cause pain or infection.

Seasonal shedding and grooming tools

Spring and fall bring heavier shedding, though these dogs shed nowhere near as much as other breeds. You’ll need to brush more often during these times to handle loose fur.

Your American Water Spaniel’s grooming kit should have:

• Slicker brush: Perfect for removing dead undercoat hair after winter
• Rubber-tipped pin brush: Great for summer’s thinner coat
• Metal comb with rounded teeth: Takes care of snarls and tangles
• Dematting tool: Comes in handy during heavy shedding

Trim their nails twice monthly to prevent hooked or jagged nails that can affect how they walk and might cause splayed feet. Regular tooth brushing keeps dental problems away.

Hunting dogs need extra care. Use conditioner with sunscreen to stop coat bleaching and light oil products to help remove burrs. These steps keep your American Water Spaniel comfortable and healthy throughout its working life.

Training and Socialization Guide

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Training and socializing American Water Spaniels properly leads to well-mannered companions. These intelligent dogs have natural talents and specific needs that owners must understand to maximize their potential.

Trainability and intelligence

American Water Spaniels excel in intelligence tests and show great enthusiasm to please their owners. Their quick minds and work ethic make training sessions productive. Note that these dogs respond best to positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and consistency.

The breed’s training demands patience due to their occasional stubbornness. Short, engaging sessions prove more effective than long drills. Harsh discipline backfires as these sensitive dogs might become discouraged or withdraw when treated roughly.

Young puppies should learn basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. Their working background makes them perfect candidates for advanced training in:

• Flyball and agility competitions
• Obedience trials
• Field events and hunting activities

Socialization tips for puppies

Proper socialization serves as the life-blood of developing balanced American Water Spaniels. Puppies learn best between 7 weeks and 4 months of age, making this the prime time for new experiences. Exposure to various stimuli during this period creates lasting positive associations that shape adult behavior.

The breed’s natural wariness of strangers requires proper socialization to prevent problematic shyness or fear. Successful socialization includes:

• Meeting different people (varying ages, appearances, and accessories like hats or umbrellas)
• Controlled interactions with other animals and pets
• Exploring different environments and surfaces
• Building positive associations through treats and praise

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior reports that behavioral issues—not infectious diseases—remain the leading cause of death for dogs under 3 years old, which emphasizes socialization’s vital role.

Common behavioral challenges

American Water Spaniels, even from good breeding, can develop behavioral issues without proper guidance. These dogs form strong bonds with their owners, making separation anxiety a major concern. Dogs might bark excessively, destroy property, or regress in house-training when left alone.

Other challenges include:

• Possible aggression toward same-sex dogs without early socialization
• Food possessiveness that needs training (practice taking food bowl away briefly during meals)
• Problematic excessive barking if not addressed early
• Training session stubbornness

These challenges need consistent handling and early intervention. Extra exercise, dog walker services, or interactive toys can help reduce separation anxiety symptoms. Tough cases might benefit from professional trainers or behavioral specialists.

Feeding and Nutrition Tips

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Good nutrition is the foundation of health for the energetic American Water Spaniel. These active sporting dogs need balanced diets that maintain their muscular build and support their natural athleticism throughout life.

Daily feeding schedule and portion control

American Water Spaniels do best with a consistent feeding schedule – two measured meals each day works well. Adult dogs usually need between 2 to 2¾ cups of high-quality dry food daily, split between these two meals.

Portion control plays a vital role for this breed since they pack on extra weight easily. A standard measuring cup helps prevent overfeeding, unlike eyeballing portions. Here are some helpful feeding tips:

• Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories
• Regular body condition checks help adjust portions correctly
• Food amounts should match activity levels

Your American Water Spaniel needs constant access to fresh water. Clean water should be ready right after exercise or outdoor activities to prevent dehydration.

Nutritional needs by life stage

Each life stage – puppy, adult, and senior – comes with unique nutritional needs that owners must understand.

Puppies thrive on nutrient-dense diets with higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals than adult dogs. This vital development stage requires more frequent meals – about four daily feeds early on, which gradually decrease to two meals by adulthood.

Adult American Water Spaniels do best with food made for medium-sized breeds that stay active. Their nutritional focus changes to balance and maintenance once they reach about 90% of their adult weight. Quality food without grain fillers helps sustain their energy levels.

Senior dogs face metabolic changes that need dietary adjustments. Most seniors need fewer calories but enough protein to keep their muscle mass. Senior-specific foods can satisfy them while meeting their changing nutritional requirements.

Supplements for joint and coat health

The breed’s tendency toward joint issues like hip dysplasia means joint health supplements can help. Beneficial supplements include:

• Glucosamine and chondroitin to support cartilage
• MSM to reduce inflammation
• Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to ease joint inflammation

American Water Spaniel’s distinctive curly coat benefits from supplements that boost skin and coat health. Their coat might get dry or sensitive, which makes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids valuable additions. Vitamin E, flaxseed oil, and probiotics also help.

Your veterinarian should approve supplement dosages based on your dog’s needs, age, and health status before you start giving them.

American Water Spaniel Price and Availability in India

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Getting your hands on an American Water Spaniel in India takes time and dedication since these dogs are 10 years old in the country compared to other popular breeds. Dog lovers who want this unique hunting companion have a few ways to make their dream come true.

Average American Water Spaniel price in India

These days, you can find American Water Spaniels through specialized online pet platforms that connect you with verified breeders throughout India. These platforms help you buy KCI-certified (Kennel Club of India) puppies in cities like Chandigarh, Bangalore, and Delhi NCR. While exact prices for American Water Spaniels in India are hard to pin down, they line up with other medium-sized purebred sporting dogs that are equally rare.

Mr n Mrs Pet and similar online platforms sell these dogs in major cities with health-certified puppies and delivery options. You can find them in Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune, Patna, Raipur, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Vadodara, and Rajkot.

Factors affecting cost

The price of an American Water Spaniel in India depends on several key factors:

• Rarity status – These dogs are hard to find in India, which drives up their price
• KCI certification – Papers proving their lineage make puppies more expensive
• Health certifications – Vet-checked puppies cost more but give you peace of mind
• Transportation requirements – Shipping across India adds to your final cost

Finding a reputable American Water Spaniel breeder

These special dogs need special care when it comes to finding the right breeder. Platforms like Mr n Mrs Pet link you with KCI-registered breeders who offer purebred, health-certified puppies. You might also want to check out breed-specific websites like Puppiezo that verify their breeders and support you after purchase.

Good breeders always get their puppies checked by certified vets and give you papers that prove the dog’s family history. Most of them microchip their puppies too. The best services make sure your puppy reaches you safely anywhere in India, and some platforms have already helped thousands of families bring home their new pets.

Conclusion

The American Water Spaniel is a true American original, bred specifically to handle the tough hunting conditions around the Great Lakes. These versatile dogs are quite rare today, with just a few thousand registered worldwide. Their medium-sized build, distinctive curly coat, and balanced temperament make them perfect fits for active families.

These dogs just need plenty of exercise to stay happy. You should give them at least 30 minutes of energetic activity daily. Swimming and retrieving games let them use their natural abilities best. Smart dogs like these can develop problem behaviors if they don’t get enough physical and mental exercise.

On top of that, it’s pretty easy to keep their coat in good shape compared to other sporting breeds. They stay healthy and comfortable with weekly brushing, occasional baths, and extra care for their ears after swimming. Their water-resistant coat needs specific attention to keep its protective qualities.

With good care, these dogs stay healthy and live 10-14 years on average. Regular health checks of their hips, eyes, and heart help ensure a long, healthy life. Their size hits a sweet spot – males weigh 13.6-20.4 kg and females 11.3-18.1 kg. That makes them strong enough for tough work but agile enough for various activities.

The sort of thing I love about American Water Spaniels is how they create deep bonds with their families while keeping their working dog instincts sharp. They’re affectionate at home but naturally cautious with strangers. Families who spend time on early socialization and consistent positive training will find these dogs happy to learn.

American Water Spaniels blend functionality and companionship perfectly. Finding one might take some patience, especially in places like India where they’re uncommon. These special dogs create rewarding partnerships with the right owners. Their mix of smarts, versatility, and loyalty makes them amazing companions for anyone looking for an active, loving, and capable four-legged friend.

FAQs

Q1. What is the typical temperament of an American Water Spaniel?

American Water Spaniels are affectionate and devoted to their families, but can be reserved with strangers. They are intelligent, energetic dogs that require daily exercise to prevent destructive behaviors. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family companions when properly socialized and trained.

Q2. How much exercise does an American Water Spaniel need?

American Water Spaniels require at least 30 minutes of vigorous daily exercise to stay healthy and well-behaved. Activities like swimming, fetching, and running are ideal for meeting their high energy needs. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they may develop unwanted behaviors.

Q3. Are American Water Spaniels good with children and other pets?

When properly socialized, American Water Spaniels generally get along well with children and other pets. They have a gentle nature that makes them suitable for families. However, early socialization is crucial for appropriate interactions, especially with other animals due to their hunting instincts.

Q4. Do American Water Spaniels bark excessively?

American Water Spaniels can become vocal if not given enough exercise or mental stimulation. While not typically excessive barkers, they may develop this behavior if bored or under-stimulated. Providing adequate daily activity and training can help manage their barking tendencies.

Q5. What are the grooming requirements for an American Water Spaniel?

American Water Spaniels need weekly brushing to maintain their unique, water-resistant coat. They require infrequent bathing, typically every three months or when noticeably dirty. Special attention should be given to their ears, especially after swimming, to prevent infections. Regular nail trimming and dental care are also important parts of their grooming routine.