| Breed
Group:
Sporting |
| Weight:
male: 30-45, female: 25-40 lbs |
| Height:
15-18 inches |
| Color(s):
solid liver, brown, or dark chocolate |
| Coat:
The
American Water Spaniel has a double coat, which is distinctive and
weather resistant. The outer coat ranges from tightly curled to wavy,
while the under coat is dense and protects this breed from weather and
water. The coat is neither coarse nor soft, but somewhat oily. The
color may be dark chocolate, brown, or solid liver. This breed is a
light shedder. |
| Overview:
The
American Water Spaniel is most commonly referred to as AWS. Since the
18th century this breed has been used on the farm and for hunting,
particularly in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are one of only a few
breeds developed in America, and are considered a rare breed. The
American Water Spaniel is virtually unknown outside of the United
States. They were designated as Wisconsin's official state dog in 1986. |
| Character:
The
American Water Spaniel is a medium sized dog. This American original
excels at flushing out game and retrieving. As is typical of the
Spaniel breed they hunt both feather and fur with excitement and
enthusiasm. The American Water Spaniel is friendly, willing to please,
and intelligent. They are avid hunters, farm workers, and amiable
companions. |
| Temperament:
This
breed is loyal, energetic, obedient, and persistent. They are generally
gentle with children and other pets. They may become aggressive with
dogs they do not know. The American Water Spaniel is an ideal family
pet. If they are properly introduced they are friendly with strangers.
They may become attached to one particular person within the family
unit. They are an excellent watchdog, and have a tendency to bark
excessively. Many American Water Spaniel' will "yodel" when excited.
They love attention, but are fully capable of creating their own
entertainment. |
| Care:
American
Water Spaniels require a thorough brushing at least twice a week.
Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild
shampoo. It is essential that the coat not be stripped of the natural
oils. Occasional professional clipping of the coat is recommended to
keep this breed from looking "ratty". The lack of popularity of the
American Water Spaniel has enabled them to remain free of genetic
health issues. They may, however, have skin problems. |
| Training:
The
American Water Spaniel is slow to maturation and may be two years of
age before they are able to settle into a training program. However,
they do require extensive socialization at an early age. They may be
difficult to housetrain and the crate method is highly recommended.
This breed has a highly sensitive nature and does not respond to harsh
or heavy-handed training methods. If they are harshly disciplined they
may exhibit "fear-biting". It is important that training be done with
patience, love, respect, consistency, and fairness. |
| Activity:
American
Water Spaniels require an inordinate amount of physical exercise, and
enjoys swimming and hunting. They have a tendency to roam, so daily
jogging or walking must be done with the American Water Spaniel
securely leashed. They benefit from play sessions such as Frisbee or a
game of "fetch". The American Water Spaniel will do okay in an
apartment provided they are given sufficient exercise and a securely
fenced yard is available. They prefer a home in the country setting
with room to run. |
