American Water Spaniel
Your Complete Guide to the American Water Spaniel
American Water Spaniel History: A True Midwestern Original
The American Water Spaniel (AWS) is a uniquely American breed, developed in the mid-19th century primarily in the Fox River and Wolf River valleys of Wisconsin. Hunters in this region needed a versatile gundog that could work both on land and in the cold waters of the Great Lakes, often retrieving from small boats or skiffs. The breed’s exact ancestry is not definitively documented but is believed to include crosses of various European spaniels such as the English Water Spaniel (now extinct), Irish Water Spaniel, and Curly-Coated Retriever, possibly with some input from Native American dogs.
These dogs were prized for their compact size, dense waterproof coat, excellent swimming ability (aided by webbed feet), and keen nose for retrieving waterfowl and other game like grouse, quail, and pheasant. They were true all-around hunters for the market hunters and sportsmen of the era. Dr. F.J. Pfeifer of New London, Wisconsin, is considered a key figure in developing and promoting the breed in the early 20th century. The American Water Spaniel was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1920 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1940. It holds the distinction of being the official State Dog of Wisconsin.
American Water Spaniel Temperament: Eager, Intelligent, and Happily Versatile
The American Water Spaniel is known for its intelligent, eager-to-please, and generally happy disposition. They are energetic and playful dogs that thrive on having a job to do, whether it’s retrieving, participating in dog sports, or being an active family companion. They form strong bonds with their families and are typically very devoted and affectionate. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but they can also possess a bit of an independent streak common in many sporting breeds.
While friendly and outgoing with their families, AWS can sometimes be wary or reserved with strangers, making them good watchdogs that will alert to unusual sounds or visitors. Early and consistent socialization is important to ensure they develop into well-adjusted and confident adults. They are generally good with children if raised with them and typically get along with other dogs. Due to their hunting heritage, they may have a prey drive towards smaller animals, so careful introductions are necessary. They enjoy being part of family life and do not do well if left alone for extended periods without activity and companionship.
Grooming Your American Water Spaniel: Caring for the Curly Coat
The American Water Spaniel has a distinctive double coat that is either tightly curled or has a marcel wave (uniform waves). The coat is dense, oily, and water-resistant, providing excellent protection in cold water and harsh weather. The primary colors are solid liver, brown, or dark chocolate.
Their coat requires moderate grooming to keep it healthy and prevent matting. Brushing two to three times a week with a slicker brush or pin brush, followed by a comb, will help remove loose dead hair and debris and prevent tangles, especially in the feathered areas on the legs and tail. Some owners opt to have their AWS professionally clipped a few times a year for easier maintenance, often leaving the coat about an inch long. Their oily coat can sometimes have a “doggy” odor if not bathed regularly enough for an indoor companion, but over-bathing should also be avoided. Regular ear cleaning is crucial, as their drop ears can trap moisture and lead to infections. Nail trims and dental care are also standard grooming needs.
American Water Spaniel Exercise: An Active Dog That Loves Water
American Water Spaniels are energetic and athletic dogs that require regular daily exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated. They were bred for active work and thrive when they have an outlet for their energy. Aim for at least an hour of activity per day, including more than just leisurely walks.
True to their name, most American Water Spaniels love swimming, and it’s an excellent form of exercise for them. Other good activities include:
- Brisk daily walks, jogging, or hiking.
- Playing fetch or retrieving games, especially with water toys if available.
- Off-leash play in a securely fenced area.
- Participating in canine sports such as hunt tests, retrieving trials, agility, or obedience.
Mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, and interactive games is also very important for this intelligent breed. Without sufficient exercise and engagement, they can become bored, which may lead to undesirable behaviors. They are well-suited for active families who enjoy outdoor activities, particularly those involving water.
Common American Water Spaniel Health Issues
The American Water Spaniel is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Malformation of these joints.
- Eye Conditions: Including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. Eye certification is recommended for breeding stock.
- Cardiac Issues: Such as mitral valve disease or patent ductus arteriosus. Heart exams are recommended.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive disease of the spinal cord.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
- Allergies: Skin allergies can occur.
- Growth Plate Disorders (in puppies):** Care should be taken not to over-exercise growing puppies.
Choosing a reputable breeder who performs thorough health screenings (hips, elbows, eyes, heart, DNA tests for PRA, etc.) on their breeding dogs and providing regular veterinary care, a quality diet, and appropriate exercise are crucial for an American Water Spaniel’s long-term health.
Training Your American Water Spaniel: Engaging an Eager Learner
American Water Spaniels are intelligent and generally eager to please, which makes them quite trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods that involve praise, food rewards, and play. They are sensitive dogs and do not react well to harsh corrections or overly dominant training techniques.
Key aspects of training an AWS include:
- Early Socialization: Expose your AWS puppy to a wide variety of people, sights, sounds, and other animals from a young age to build a confident and well-adjusted adult. This helps temper their potential wariness of strangers.
- Positive Reinforcement: Keep training sessions fun, upbeat, and rewarding. Their intelligence means they can learn quickly but may get bored with excessive repetition.
- Consistency: Clear rules and boundaries must be established and consistently enforced by all family members.
- Obedience Training: Basic obedience commands (sit, stay, come, down, heel) are important. Their retrieving instincts can be channeled into fun training games.
- Recall (“Come” command): Important to train reliably, especially if they will be involved in off-leash activities or water work.
Puppy socialization classes and ongoing obedience or sports training are highly recommended. Their intelligence and athleticism make them suitable for various dog sports, particularly those involving retrieving or water activities.
American Water Spaniel FAQs
Q: Are American Water Spaniels good family dogs?
A: Yes, American Water Spaniels can be excellent family dogs. They are typically affectionate with their families, playful, and can be good with children if raised with them and properly socialized. They thrive on being part of family activities.
Q: Do American Water Spaniels shed a lot?
A: They have a double coat and are considered moderate shedders. Regular brushing helps to manage loose hair, especially during seasonal shedding periods.
Q: Are American Water Spaniels good for apartment living?
A: While they are adaptable, their moderate to high energy levels mean they are generally better suited to homes with a securely fenced yard where they can play. They can live in an apartment if they receive sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation, including outdoor activities.
Q: Do American Water Spaniels bark much?
A: They can be somewhat vocal and will bark to alert their owners to strangers or unusual sounds, making them good watchdogs. Training can help manage excessive barking if it becomes an issue.