Breed History:

The American Water Spaniel (AWS) is a native U.S. breed developed in the Midwestern United States, particularly around the Fox and Wolf River valleys in Wisconsin, during the 19th century. Bred to be a versatile hunting companion, the AWS excels in retrieving game from both land and water, especially in the cold, marshy environments of the Great Lakes region.

A mix of various spaniel breeds, such as the Irish Water Spaniel, Curly-Coated Retriever, and possibly Field Spaniel, was used to develop a compact, curly-coated dog suited for hunting and boat travel. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1940, and in 1985, it was named the state dog of Wisconsin.

If you want to learn about other spaniel breeds, check out our page "Different Spaniel Dog Breeds". 

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The American Water Spaniel is a compact, muscular, and well-balanced dog with a sturdy sporting build.

The breed commonly features:

• Broad, moderately rounded head
• Medium-length muzzle
• Dark hazel or brown eyes
• Long, pendant ears
• Deep chest
• Strong, muscular neck
• Well-developed limbs
• Moderately long tail carried naturally

Its dense, weather-resistant double coat may be tightly curled or wavy, providing excellent protection in cold water.

Common coat colours include:

• Liver
• Chocolate
• Brown

The breed's curly coat and athletic build reflect its heritage as a hardworking retriever and versatile hunting companion.

Breed Type – Sporting Dog:

The American Water Spaniel is an intelligent, energetic, and affectionate sporting breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal
• Intelligent
• Friendly
• Energetic
• Eager to please
• Affectionate with family

The breed forms strong bonds with its family and generally gets along well with children and other pets when properly socialised. It may be reserved around unfamiliar people.

Training:

The American Water Spaniel is intelligent and eager to learn.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Recall training
• Leash manners
• Consistent leadership

The breed excels in:

• Hunting
• Retrieving
• Obedience
• Agility
• Dock diving
• Companion activities

Structured, reward-based training helps the breed become a confident and well-mannered companion.

Health & Care:

The American Water Spaniel is generally healthy but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Degenerative myelopathy
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Cataracts
• Patellar luxation

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The American Water Spaniel thrives in active homes where it receives regular exercise, training, and family companionship.

Ideal environments include:

• Houses with secure yards
• Rural or suburban homes
• Active families
• Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts
• Experienced or committed first-time dog owners

The breed prefers living indoors with its family and is not suited to prolonged isolation.

Exercise:

The American Water Spaniel has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Swimming
• Retrieving games
• Hiking
• Obedience training
• Mental enrichment activities

Regular physical activity and mental stimulation are essential to maintain the breed's physical and mental well-being.

Grooming:

The dense, curly coat requires moderate maintenance.

• Brushing two to three times per week
• Occasional trimming around the ears and feet
• Occasional bathing
• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds lightly to moderately throughout the year and benefits from regular coat maintenance to prevent tangles.

Advantages:

• Excellent swimmer and natural retriever

• Adaptable to various climates and living situations

• Loyal and affectionate with family

• Intelligent and capable of learning complex tasks

• Minimal grooming needs for a spaniel-type breed

• Versatile in hunting, dog sports, and companionship

Disadvantages:

• Requires daily physical and mental stimulation

• Can be reserved or aloof with strangers

• Independent streak may challenge first-time trainers

• May become possessive or overly vocal if under-socialized

• Coat prone to matting if not regularly maintained

• Needs early socialization to avoid territorial behavior