{"id":18778,"date":"2014-10-11T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2014-10-10T21:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=18778"},"modified":"2025-11-15T23:31:53","modified_gmt":"2025-11-15T21:31:53","slug":"american-water-spaniel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-american-water-spaniel","title":{"rendered":"American Water Spaniel"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>American Water Spaniel<\/strong> is a marsh hunter&#8217;s dream, embodied in a compact, curly-coated body. This is a true &#8220;all-rounder,&#8221; bred not for the show ring, but for hard work in cold water and dense thickets. Its character is a unique blend of hunting drive and the gentleness of a family pet. Read more on this at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tvaryny<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">American Water Spaniel: A Brief Breed Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/logo-141364.jpg\" alt=\"American Water Spaniel\" class=\"wp-image-18743\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/logo-141364.jpg 225w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/logo-141364-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Criterion<\/th><th>Detail<\/th><th>Comment<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Origin<\/strong><\/td><td>USA, Wisconsin<\/td><td>Official state dog since 1986<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Purpose<\/strong><\/td><td>Water and land retriever<\/td><td>&#8220;Dual-purpose gundog&#8221;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Height at withers<\/strong><\/td><td>38\u201346 cm (AKC), 36\u201346 cm (FCI)<\/td><td>Compact, but sturdy<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Weight<\/strong><\/td><td>11\u201318 kg (females), 14\u201320 kg (males)<\/td><td>Sexual dimorphism is moderate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/td><td>12\u201315 years<\/td><td>With proper care<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Coat Type<\/strong><\/td><td>Curls or waves with an undercoat<\/td><td>Repels water like an otter&#8217;s fur<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Main Colours<\/strong><\/td><td>Chocolate, liver, dark brown<\/td><td>Small white markings permissible<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">History and Origin of the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed was developed in the Fox and Wisconsin river valleys in the late 19th century, when local hunters needed a mobile dog capable of working from flat-bottomed boats, withstanding cold water, and retrieving game from dense reeds. Breeders crossed the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-irish-water-spaniel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Irish Water Spaniel<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-curly-coated-retriever\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Curly-Coated Retriever<\/a><\/strong>, adding blood from the <a href=\"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-field-spaniel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Field Spaniel<\/a> and, according to some reports, smaller American land spaniels. The first breed club was formed in 1920, but the American Kennel Club only recognised it in 1940. Outside the US, its popularity remained minimal, although the FCI officially included the American Water Spaniel in Group 8 &#8220;Retrievers, Spaniels, Water Dogs&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Forging the &#8220;Ideal&#8221; Hunter<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the 19th century, market hunting in the Great Lakes region was a tough business. Hunters needed more than just a dog; they needed a multifunctional tool. This dog had to be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Compact:<\/strong> To easily jump into a small boat without tipping it and not take up much space.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water-hardy:<\/strong> With a coat that protected against the icy waters of the Great Lakes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>An effective retriever:<\/strong> To bring back shot game (ducks, geese) from the water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A good &#8220;flusher&#8221;:<\/strong> To drive game (pheasants, partridges) out of dense thickets on land.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">None of the existing European breeds met all these requirements at once. Thus began the purposeful selection that combined the best qualities of water dogs and spaniels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Doctor Pfeifer and Standardisation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The &#8220;father&#8221; of the breed is considered to be <strong>Dr F. J. Pfeifer<\/strong> of New London, Wisconsin. He was the one who began keeping studbooks and first documented the breed standard. He owned a famous dog named &#8220;Curly,&#8221; who is considered one of the founders of the modern American Water Spaniel line. Pfeifer actively promoted the breed, selling puppies across the country for $25, and it was his efforts that led to the breed&#8217;s recognition by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1920, and later by the AKC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Path to Recognition and the Risk of Extinction<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite official recognition, the breed nearly vanished after the Second World War. With the rise of more popular retrievers, like Labradors and Goldens, the need for a &#8220;universal&#8221; spaniel diminished. The breed was on the brink of extinction in the 1950s and 60s. Only through the efforts of a small group of enthusiasts and the American Water Spaniel Club (AWSC) was the gene pool preserved. Today, the American Water Spaniel remains <strong>one of the rarest breeds<\/strong> registered with the AKC, ranking 167th out of 197 in popularity. This rarity, however, has helped preserve its working qualities, as the breed never became &#8220;fashionable&#8221; and was not split into show and working lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Appearance and Breed Standard of the American Water Spaniel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"587\" height=\"380\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364.jpg\" alt=\"American Water Spaniel in water\" class=\"wp-image-18749\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364.jpg 587w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364-300x194.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 587px) 100vw, 587px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The American Water Spaniel is a <strong>compact athlete<\/strong> with a strong build and well-developed muscles in the chest and forelegs. It is a medium-sized dog, sturdily built but not bulky. Its appearance radiates power, endurance, and vivacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Head and Muzzle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The head is proportional to the body<\/strong>, with a moderately broad skull and a defined but not abrupt stop (the transition from forehead to muzzle). The muzzle is square and of medium length, allowing it to hold game comfortably. The eyes are medium-sized, round, and set fairly wide apart. Eye colour ranges from hazel to dark amber or brown, harmonising with the coat. The expression is <strong>inquisitive, intelligent, and friendly<\/strong>. The ears are long, pendulous, and set low (slightly above the eye line), covered in dense waves of fur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Body and Silhouette<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Back:<\/strong> Short, straight, and strong. The topline is level or slightly sloping from the withers to the croup.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chest:<\/strong> Deep but not overly broad, with well-sprung ribs that are not barrel-shaped.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Croup:<\/strong> Slightly sloping, which facilitates a powerful push from the hindquarters when swimming and jumping from water to shore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tail:<\/strong> Medium length, thick at the base, tapering to a point. It is covered in fur and serves as a <strong>rudder when swimming<\/strong>. In motion, the dog carries it slightly below the line of the back. The tail is <strong>never docked<\/strong>; this is a disqualifying fault.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Limbs:<\/strong> Parallel, with strong bone. The paws are &#8220;Scottish type&#8221; (thick, compact) with well-developed <strong>webbing between the toes<\/strong>, which is essential for a water dog.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Coat: Double Protection<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The coat is the breed&#8217;s main &#8220;calling card&#8221; and its primary working tool. It has a <strong>double layer<\/strong>: a dense, short undercoat that retains body heat, and an outer layer (guard hairs) that is oily to the touch. This oiliness (natural lanolin) makes the coat <strong>waterproof<\/strong>, preventing water from reaching the skin. In dry weather, the curls are springy, protecting the epidermis from branches and grass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The coat texture can vary:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Marcel:<\/strong> Uniform waves all over the body.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Curly:<\/strong> Small, tight curls, similar to a Poodle&#8217;s coat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many dogs have a combination of both types. The fur on the head is typically shorter and smoother.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Coat Colours<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed standard only permits three variations of solid dark colour:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Liver<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brown<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dark Chocolate<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small white markings on the chest or toes are permissible but not desirable. The nose and paw pads should be dark, matching the coat (black or dark brown). The eyes should harmonise with the coat colour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Body Part<\/th><th>AKC Standard<\/th><th>Purpose \/ Notes<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Size<\/strong><\/td><td>38\u201346 cm (15\u201318 inches)<\/td><td>Compactness for working from a boat.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Eyes<\/strong><\/td><td>Hazel, brown, or amber.<\/td><td>Darker eyes are preferred. Yellow eyes are a fault.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Ears<\/strong><\/td><td>Long, broad, low-set, covered in fur.<\/td><td>Protect the ear canal from water.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Coat<\/strong><\/td><td>Double, oily, wavy or curly.<\/td><td>Waterproof, protects from cold.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Paws<\/strong><\/td><td>Compact, with webbing.<\/td><td>For effective swimming.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Tail<\/strong><\/td><td>Medium length, tapered, not docked.<\/td><td>Used as a rudder in the water.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Character and Behaviour<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-94249\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_1-860x645.jpg 860w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A study in contrasts:<\/strong> at home, obedient and calm; on the hunt, energetic and fired up with enthusiasm. The American Water Spaniel is known for its devotion to its family and a strong bond with &#8220;its&#8221; person. This is a <strong>very sensitive breed<\/strong> that reacts keenly to its owner&#8217;s mood and the atmosphere in the home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A &#8220;Shadow Dog&#8221; at Home<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Indoors, the American Water Spaniel is calm, provided it has had enough physical exercise. It tends to be a &#8220;Velcro dog,&#8221; following its owner from room to room. They thrive on human company and <strong>do not tolerate loneliness well<\/strong>. Left alone for long periods, they can develop separation anxiety, which may manifest as destructive behaviour or excessive barking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Energy and Drive in the Field<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Flip the &#8220;on&#8221; switch, and you&#8217;ll see a completely different dog. In nature, especially near water, the American Water Spaniel transforms into an energetic, focused whirlwind. They have <strong>high intelligence and a desire to work<\/strong>. Boredom is their worst enemy. Without a &#8220;job&#8221; (games, training, swimming), they will find their own entertainment, and you probably won&#8217;t like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed is known for its <strong>loud, but &#8220;deep&#8221; voice<\/strong>. They are prone to vocalisation: barking, whining, and sometimes letting out a characteristic &#8220;yodel&#8221; or &#8220;singing,&#8221; especially when excited. This helped hunters keep track of the dog in tall reeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Watchdog Qualities and Socialisation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The American Water Spaniel is an excellent <strong>watchdog<\/strong>, but not a guard dog. They will always alert you with a loud bark to a stranger&#8217;s approach. However, aggression towards people is completely atypical for them. They may be reserved or indifferent towards strangers, but become friendly once introduced. Early and positive socialisation is critical to ensure their natural reserve doesn&#8217;t turn into timidity. Their <strong>prey drive<\/strong> for small game (squirrels, birds) is strong, so introductions to cats must be early and supervised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Trait Level (1 &#8211; low, 5 &#8211; high)<\/th><th>Rating<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Energy Level<\/td><td>5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Owner-Oriented<\/td><td>5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Territoriality<\/td><td>2 (but vocalisation is high)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tendency to Bark<\/td><td>4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Trainability (Desire to Please)<\/td><td>5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tolerance for Loneliness<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Friendliness to Other Dogs<\/td><td>4 (with socialisation)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hunting Instinct<\/td><td>5<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros and Cons of the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Like any breed, especially one so highly specialised, the American Water Spaniel has its unique advantages and challenges. It&#8217;s important to be honest about whether your lifestyle matches the needs of this energetic hunter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Advantages<\/th><th>Disadvantages<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Highly versatile &#8211; retriever and flusher in one package.<\/td><td>Needs daily, active exercise and <strong>mandatory access to water (swimming)<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Extremely devoted to family, very human-oriented.<\/td><td>High tendency for separation anxiety; not suitable for people who are out of the house a lot.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>High intelligence, easily trained with positive methods.<\/td><td><strong>Very sensitive to harshness<\/strong>, shouting, and negative methods; holds a grudge.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Compact size &#8211; can suit a flat (with sufficient exercise).<\/td><td>High tendency to vocalise (barking, whining, &#8220;yodelling&#8221;).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Relatively healthy, long lifespan.<\/td><td>Needs regular, though not complex, grooming and <strong>diligent ear checks<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minimal &#8220;doggy&#8221; smell, moderate shedding.<\/td><td>Strong hunting instinct (needs to be on a lead in unfenced areas).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rare breed (exclusivity).<\/td><td>Rare breed (hard to find a puppy, limited gene pool).<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Health and Typical Conditions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"246\" height=\"205\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_0.jpg\" alt=\"American Water Spaniel on grass\" class=\"wp-image-18756\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed is considered <strong>relatively healthy<\/strong>, largely because it has never been overly popular, and selection focused on working qualities. However, due to the limited gene pool (a result of its rarity), there is a list of hereditary diseases that <strong>responsibe<\/strong> breeders monitor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Condition<\/th><th>Description<\/th><th>Screening \/ Prevention<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Hip Dysplasia (HD)<\/strong><\/td><td>Improper development of the hip joint, leading to arthritis. Prevalence among AWS is moderate.<\/td><td>Mandatory X-ray screening (e.g., BVA\/KC or PennHIP) for breeding animals. Control weight and exercise in puppies.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-prcd)<\/strong><\/td><td>Hereditary disease leading to gradual blindness. The AWS is prone to the specific prcd-PRA form.<\/td><td>Mandatory genetic DNA test for all breeding dogs.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Heart Problems<\/strong><\/td><td>Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) and Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) are most common.<\/td><td>Cardiologist check-up and Echo (heart ultrasound) for breeding animals.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)<\/strong><\/td><td>Neurological disease leading to paralysis of the hind limbs in older dogs.<\/td><td>DNA test (SOD1) to determine carrier status.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Otitis Externa (Outer Ear Infection)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Problem No. 1.<\/strong> The combination of drop ears, dense fur, and constant water contact creates ideal conditions for bacteria and yeast.<\/td><td>Regular cleaning, drying ears after <strong>every<\/strong> swim, prophylactic lotions.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Allergies<\/strong><\/td><td>Prone to atopic dermatitis (seasonal allergies) and food intolerances.<\/td><td>Diagnosis by a vet, selection of hypoallergenic food.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Vet&#8217;s advice:<\/strong> get a comprehensive blood panel and heart ultrasound done once a year; when choosing food, avoid high levels of peas and potatoes, which have been linked to a risk of DCM (cardiomyopathy). Always ask the breeder for the parents&#8217; genetic test results (at least for PRA and DM) and hip scoring certificates (OFA\/BVA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Grooming and Hygiene<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"710\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-94264\" style=\"width:407px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/gallery-141364_2-254x300.jpg 254w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The key rule<\/strong> &#8211; do not over-dry the skin or strip the coat&#8217;s natural oils. Avoid frequent shampooing (1-2 times every 6-8 weeks, or as needed, is sufficient). After swimming in a river or lake, rinse the coat with clean fresh water to wash away dirt and bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Grooming: The &#8220;Gold Standard&#8221;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The American Water Spaniel&#8217;s coat needs regular care, but it&#8217;s different from grooming a Poodle, for example. <strong>American Water Spaniels must not be shaved!<\/strong> This destroys the double coat&#8217;s structure and strips the dog of protection from sun and cold. Recommended care:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Brushing (1-2 times a week):<\/strong> Use a metal comb with long teeth to reach the undercoat and prevent matting. A slicker brush can help smooth the top layer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trimming (every 2-3 months):<\/strong> A light trim with scissors is recommended to give shape and remove excess fur, especially on the paws (between the pads), around the ear canal, and under the tail. Some owners lightly trim the coat on the back and neck to accentuate the silhouette.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Problem No. 1: The Ears<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the breed&#8217;s Achilles&#8217; heel. Their long, drooping, densely-furred ears create a perfect warm, dark, and moist environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. Add constant swimming to the mix, and the risk of otitis becomes extremely high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inspect the ears daily<\/strong> for redness, smell, or debris.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thoroughly dry the ears<\/strong> (the inner part of the ear flap) with a towel <strong>after every swim<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clean the ears 1-2 times a week<\/strong> with a special veterinary lotion that maintains the pH balance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regularly trim the fur around the ear canal for better ventilation.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Other Hygiene Aspects<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Nail trimming<\/strong> &#8211; twice a month. Since the dog swims a lot and runs on soft ground, the nails don&#8217;t wear down enough naturally. <strong>Dental care<\/strong> &#8211; brushing 2-3 times a week with veterinary toothpaste to prevent tartar build-up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Physical Activity and Training<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>60-90 minutes of intense exercise daily<\/strong> &#8211; this is the absolute minimum to keep an American Water Spaniel mentally balanced. For this breed, a walk on a lead is just a warm-up. They need a job. The exercise formula: \u2153 swimming, \u2153 running\/fetching, \u2153 brain games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Water is Not an Option, It&#8217;s a Necessity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed&#8217;s name says it all. The American Water Spaniel <strong>must swim<\/strong>. It&#8217;s embedded in their DNA. If you don&#8217;t have regular (several times a week) access to a safe body of water (lake, river, pond), this breed is not for you. Swimming is not only the best physical exercise but also the most important psychological release for them. Without water, <strong>teh<\/strong> dog will express its frustration through destructive behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mental Stimulation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The American Water Spaniel&#8217;s high intelligence requires constant stimulation. 15 minutes of &#8220;nose work&#8221; tires them out more than an hour&#8217;s run. Use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Interactive toys<\/strong> and food puzzles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Hide-and-seek&#8221; games<\/strong> with toys or treats.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Teaching tricks<\/strong> and new commands.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sports for the American Water Spaniel<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They excel in any discipline related to water and scent:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dock Diving<\/strong> &#8211; this is their element.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunt Tests<\/strong> &#8211; their primary purpose.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nose Work<\/strong> and search and rescue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agility<\/strong> and <strong>Rally Obedience<\/strong> &#8211; to maintain contact with the owner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Training and Obedience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/american-water-spaniel-mallard.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-94279\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/american-water-spaniel-mallard.jpg 770w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/american-water-spaniel-mallard-300x175.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.tvaryny.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/american-water-spaniel-mallard-768x449.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start the first phase of training (clicker training, name recall, positions) from 8 weeks. Introduce hunting commands from 6 months, when the natural &#8220;hold &amp; carry&#8221; develops. Be sure to integrate silent whistle training &#8211; at long distances in the reeds, verbal commands are useless. The method should be operant conditioning with 100% positive reinforcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Overcoming Stubbornness<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed demonstrates above-average IQ; according to Stanley Coren&#8217;s tests, the American Water Spaniel learns a command in 5-15 repetitions and performs it 90% of the time. However, their intelligence is combined with a certain &#8220;spaniel&#8221; stubbornness. If they are bored or don&#8217;t see the point of a command, they will simply &#8220;switch off.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The key to success:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Positive reinforcement only:<\/strong> They are extremely sensitive. Shouting, jerking the lead, or physical punishment is the quickest way to break the dog and lose its trust forever.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Short and fun sessions:<\/strong> Keep training sessions short (10-15 minutes), dynamic, and game-like.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High-value rewards:<\/strong> They work well for food, but even better for a favourite toy or the chance to jump into the water.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Barking Challenge<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The American Water Spaniel is a noisy breed. They bark when they&#8217;re happy, when they&#8217;re excited, when they&#8217;re bored, when someone approaches. Don&#8217;t try to &#8220;forbid&#8221; them from barking &#8211; it&#8217;s part of their nature. Instead, <strong>manage the barking<\/strong>. Teach a &#8220;Quiet!&#8221; or &#8220;Enough!&#8221; command, rewarding silence, as well as a &#8220;Speak!&#8221; command, so the dog understands when vocalisation is appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Nutrition: Recommendations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A P\/F\/C (Protein\/Fat\/Carb) ratio of <strong>30% \/ 20% \/ 50%<\/strong> (on a dry matter basis) is optimal for working condition. Calorie intake should be 45 kcal\/kg of body weight for moderate activity, rising to 60 kcal\/kg during the hunting season. These are very active dogs that need high-calorie, quality fuel. Use foods with meat as the #1 ingredient, avoiding by-products and artificial preservatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-heading wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Dietary Specifics for an Active Dog<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Working Season:<\/strong> Switch to high-fat formulas (e.g., 30% protein \/ 20% fat). Add omega-3s (fish oil) to support joints and skin (30 mg EPA + DHA\/kg of body weight).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Off-Season&#8221;:<\/strong> Switch to a &#8220;lighter&#8221; ration (e.g., 26% protein \/ 16% fat) to avoid weight gain. Check weight every 10 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Raw Diet (BARF):<\/strong> This is an option but requires careful balancing of calcium and phosphorus (2:1) and adding vitamin supplements. Always consult a veterinary nutritionist.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not feed<\/strong> immediately before or after intense exercise: wait at least 90 minutes to avoid the risk of bloat (gastric torsion), to which deep-chested dogs are prone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interesting Facts About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Official State Dog:<\/strong> The American Water Spaniel has been the official State Dog of its home state, Wisconsin, since 1986.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>&#8220;Duck&#8221; Paws:<\/strong> The AWS has well-developed webbing between its toes, making them excellent swimmers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rare Treasure:<\/strong> It is one of the few breeds developed entirely in the USA and remains extremely rare. The total global population is only a few thousand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First Registration:<\/strong> The first female registered with the AKC (No. F1) was &#8220;Curly Peggy&#8221; &#8211; most modern dogs are based on her lines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No Docking:<\/strong> Unlike many spaniels, the American Water Spaniel&#8217;s tail is <strong>not docked<\/strong> &#8211; it is forbidden by the standard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Natural Wax:<\/strong> The AWS coat contains a high percentage of lanolin &#8211; a natural wax that repels water, dirt, and even burrs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How much does an American Water Spaniel puppy cost in the UK?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breed is extremely rare in the UK and Europe. Most puppies are imported from US kennels. The cost of a puppy in the US ranges from <strong>\u00a31,200 to \u00a32,000<\/strong>, plus transport and import fees (approx. <strong>\u00a3800\u2013\u00a31,200<\/strong>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Is the American Water Spaniel suitable for first-time owners?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, but with reservations. They are suitable if the novice owner is prepared to immediately enrol in training classes (using positive reinforcement) and dedicate time to active walks and swimming. Their sensitivity does not forgive training errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Does the American Water Spaniel shed a lot?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moderately. They are not hypoallergenic. They have a seasonal shed twice a year, during which the undercoat needs to be brushed out more often.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do they have a &#8220;doggy&#8221; smell?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Surprisingly, no. Despite their oily, waterproof coat, with proper care (regular rinsing with clean water and drying) they have almost no odour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Can you shave them in the summer?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, absolutely not! Their double coat works like a thermos &#8211; it protects them not only from the cold but also from overheating and sunburn. Shaving destroys this mechanism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How does the American Water Spaniel differ from the <a href=\"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-german-spaniel-deutscher-wachtelhund\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">German Spaniel<\/a>?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both are versatile hunters, but the Wachtelhund (German Spaniel) is typically larger (48-54 cm), has a longer, more &#8220;pointer-like&#8221; nose, and often has white or roan markings. The American Water Spaniel is more compact, has a squarer muzzle, and a solid-coloured coat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Video About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"American Water Spaniel - Top 10 Facts\" width=\"1170\" height=\"658\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/_3uWpmyegi0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The American Water Spaniel is a marsh hunter&#8217;s dream, embodied in a compact, curly-coated body. This is a true &#8220;all-rounder,&#8221; bred not for the show ring\u2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":94236,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[7057],"class_list":["post-18778","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","tag-hunting-dogs"],"views":50,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18778","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18778"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18778\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":94495,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18778\/revisions\/94495"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/94236"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18778"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18778"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18778"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}