American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel dog

Versatile American hunting dog developed to retrieve game from boats and marshes.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Medium 25 - 45 lbs 15 - 18 inches 10 - 14 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United States



Own a American Water Spaniel? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a American Water Spaniel? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • This breed tends to need plenty of regular physical activity.

The American Water Spaniel developed in the upper Midwest of the United States, particularly Wisconsin and the Great Lakes region. Hunters there needed a compact dog capable of working from small boats, retrieving waterfowl from cold water, and hunting game on land without taking up the space of a much larger retriever. The breed's exact ancestry was not carefully recorded, but water spaniels and retrievers of British and Irish background probably contributed to its development. By the late 19th century, curly-coated brown hunting dogs of this type were well established in the region. Changing hunting methods and the growing popularity of specialized retrievers threatened their survival during the early 20th century. Wisconsin physician and dog enthusiast Dr. Fred J. Pfeifer became central to preserving and promoting the breed. He established a kennel, developed a standard, and successfully sought formal recognition. The United Kennel Club recognized the American Water Spaniel in 1920, followed by the American Kennel Club in 1940. Wisconsin later designated it the state dog in 1985. The breed remains relatively uncommon, but its compact size and versatility still reflect exactly what Midwestern hunters originally needed: one dog capable of working marshes, boats, woods, and fields.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The American Water Spaniel tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The American Water Spaniel generally needs a moderate amount of routine grooming.

The American Water Spaniel is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The American Water Spaniel tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The American Water Spaniel is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The American Water Spaniel generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The American Water Spaniel may be selective around other dogs, making careful socialization and introductions important.

The American Water Spaniel is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The American Water Spaniel generally tends to adapt well to apartment living when its exercise and enrichment needs are met.