American Water Spaniel

AWS
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, versatile hunting dog known for its curly coat and eagerness to please. They are energetic and require significant exercise, making them excellent companions for active families.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the Great Lakes region of the USA as a versatile hunting dog for both land and water.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female15-18 inches25-45 pounds
Male15-18 inches25-45 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Solid liver, brown or dark chocolate; may have some white on toes or chest.
Type
  • Dense, curly or wavy, water-repellent double coat.
Length
  • Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Weekly brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Medium length, moderate in size
Skull
  • Moderately broad
Ears
  • Lobular, set slightly above the level of the eyes
Eyes
  • Brown, hazel, or yellow
Nose
  • Brown to black
Muzzle
  • Moderate length, square
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Muscular, moderately long
Forequarters
  • Shoulders well laid back
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Well muscled
Hind Legs
  • Straight when viewed from behind
Feet
  • Moderately webbed, round and compact
Tail
  • Moderately long, carried slightly curved
Gait
  • Smooth, effortless, and ground-covering

Temperament

  • Intelligent, eager to please, friendly, and energetic; can be sensitive.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • High
Good with Children
  • Good
Good with Dogs
  • Good
Good with Cats
  • Good
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Low
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Flushing and retrieving waterfowl and upland game birds, family companion.

Exercise Needs

  • High; requires daily physical and mental stimulation.

Health

  • Generally healthy; prone to hip dysplasia, eye issues, and hypothyroidism.

Additional Notes

  • The American Water Spaniel is the state dog of Wisconsin.

References