American Water Spaniel Breed Description
Gun Dog Group
The American Water Spaniel is an active, muscular and hardy dog. It has a crisp-textured, tightly curled or wavy outer coat lined with a protective undercoat. The skull is broad with a moderate stop. The medium length muzzle is square and smooth. The ears are long and covered with curls. The teeth meet in either a level or scissors bite. The feathered tail tapers, hanging with a slight upward curve. The tail is used as a rudder in swimming.
Recognized Registries: FCI, AKC, UKC, CKC, NKC, AWSC, APRI, ACR
Country of Origin: United States
Life Range: 12 to 15 years
Height Range: 15” to 18”
Weight Range: 25 to 45 lbs.
Colors: Liver or chocolate
Trainability: The American Water Spaniel is intelligent and very trainable. It is eager to learn and very enthusiastic about its work. It is used above all for hunting quail, duck, pheasant, grouse, and rabbit. It is a pleasant, willing dog that is highly sensitive, so obedience training should be calm, quiet, and persuasive, rather than demanding or sharp.
With Children: He is easy-going, loving companion that is usually excellent with children, but he could snap defensively if startled or harshly disciplined.
Other Pets: Socialize this breed well at an early age to avoid timidity and potential dog aggressiveness as an adult. They usually get along with non-canine pets.
Climate: This breed adapts well to all climates.
Indoor / Outdoor: American Water Spaniels will do okay in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with an average sized yard.
Exercise Required: The American Water Spaniel should have a lot of exercise.
Grooming Required: The oily coat of the American Water Spaniel needs a through brushing twice a week. Bathe only when necessary.