American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel Facts

American Water Spaniel Information

American Water Spaniel Description:

American Water Spaniel Care & Grooming:

American Water Spaniel Health Problems:

Group:	Sporting
Size:	Medium
Life Span:	12-14 years
Height:	Male: 16-18 inches
	Female: 15-17 inches
Weight:	Male: 30-45 lbs
	Female: 25-40 lbs

Coat :	Outer coat is dense and curly. Undercoat is dense and water resistant
Gait :	Well balanced
Color(s) :	Solid liver, brown or dark chocolate
Living Area :	Average
Hair Length:	Medium
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk, jogging, swimming
Recognized By :	(FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (NKC) National Kennel Club (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	19th Century
Place of Origin :	United states
Todays Use :	Companion dog
Originally Used :	Bird Flushing, Retriever
Other Name :	AWS

The origin of the American Water Spaniel lies in the United States. It was developed in America during the mid of 19th century and is a result of cross breeding between English Water Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Curly Coated Retriever and the Poodle. The breed was developed to fulfill the need for a dog which is easy to transport and hunts well in river as well as on land. During that time, the dog was primarily used as a retriever. In the late 20th century, the breed’s numbers began to dwindle because of the popularity of other hunting breeds during that time. However, due to the efforts of Dr. Pfeiffer, the breed was saved from extinction. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1940.

This is a medium sized breed with a proportionate head and an intelligent expression. It has a moderate, square muzzle; black nose; thin, taut lips with teeth which meet in scissors bite; moderately set ears which are long and lobular; beady eyes which are hazel or brown in color. The tail is tapering towards the end and is carried at the level of the back or slightly above it. It is slightly curved towards the end. The legs are moderate in length and strong to allow for heavy field work. It has a double coat with a dense, coarse and curly outer coat which is medium in length, and a dense and water resistant undercoat. The color of its coat can be solid liver, brown or dark chocolate with little white markings on toes and chest.

The American Water Spaniel is an intelligent breed which loves the company of kids and non canine pets. Caution is advised with small, non canine pets such as rabbit, rat, guinea pig etc. because of the breed’s strong hunting instincts. It is very easy to train and responds well to orders. However, it is a sensitive breed. Therefore, harsh and strict training methods should be avoided. It is an energetic breed which loves the outdoors and loves to swim. Although it loves attention, it can keep itself entertained if left alone. It has a good sense of smell and is agile, which makes it a good watchdog. It is suitable for families with kids. If exercised sufficiently, it is well suited to an apartment life but this active breed is more comfortable at least in an average sized yard.

The American Water Spaniel sheds little hair. Its dense and oily coat needs regular grooming. Brushing its coat at least 2-3 times a week with a firm bristle brush is required to remove dead hair and prevent matting of the coat. It should be bathed only when necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. Its low hanging ears tend to accumulate dirt so proper care should be taken of the ears. Its nail and the hair around ears, eyes and paws need to be trimmed regularly.

This is a high energy breed which needs a lot of exercise. Long walks are necessary to keep the dog healthy both physically and mentally. These should be supplemented with jogging, running and swimming on a regular basis. However, it should not be let off the leash in an open area as it has a tendency to chase small animals. It tends to gain weight easily so should not be overfed.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The American Water Spaniel is prone to some health issues like Cataract, Hypothyroidism, Diabetes, Skin allergies etc.

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