American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is one of the few dog breeds developed entirely in the United States — created in the lake and river country of Wisconsin and Minnesota in the mid-19th century by hunters who needed a dog small enough to work from a small canoe or skiff without tipping it, yet capable of working in cold water and heavy vegetation.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
United States
Lifespan
10–14 years
Weight
11–20 kg (25–45 lbs)
Height
38–46 cm (15–18 in)
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality food for an active medium sporting dog.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The American Water Spaniel is one of the few dog breeds developed entirely in the United States — created in the lake and river country of Wisconsin and Minnesota in the mid-19th century by hunters who needed a dog small enough to work from a small canoe or skiff without tipping it, yet capable of working in cold water and heavy vegetation. It is the official state dog of Wisconsin. The AWS was kept largely secret by its owners — a small community of hunters in Wisconsin who considered it their private advantage — which is why it remained little-known outside the region until the 20th century.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A medium-sized, solidly liver (chocolate) brown spaniel with a tightly curled or wavy, water-resistant coat. The all-brown colouration with no white markings is characteristic. A compact, athletic, workmanlike gun dog.
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Friendly, eager, and sensitive — the AWS is highly trainable and enthusiastic. Excellent hunting companion and family dog. Sensitive to harsh training — positive methods only.
Living Profile
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •1.5–2 hours exercise daily including water work. Brushing 2–3 times weekly. Ear cleaning weekly.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Health Overview
Hip dysplasia. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Mitral valve disease. Pattern baldness (alopecia) — unique to the breed. Generally a robust gun dog.
Common Conditions
Fun Facts
The American Water Spaniel was kept secret by the Wisconsin hunting community for decades — the small group of hunters who developed and maintained the breed jealously guarded their "secret weapon," refusing to share dogs or information with outsiders.
The American Water Spaniel is Wisconsin's official state dog — the only dog breed that is native to Wisconsin and one of only a handful of breeds developed entirely within the United States.
