American Water Spaniel
A versatile curly-coated American hunting spaniel that retrieves on land and water. Intelligent and eager, but can be sensitive and a little reserved with strangers.
American Water Spaniel scorecard
Overview
The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, curly-coated gundog developed in the United States to work the rivers, lakes and marshes of the Upper Midwest. Standing roughly 38–46 cm at the shoulder and weighing around 11–20 kg, it is one of the few breeds genuinely native to America, and remains uncommon both there and in the United Kingdom. Built for versatility rather than specialism, it was prized by frontier and market hunters who needed a single dog that could flush and retrieve birds on land and then swim out to recover them from cold water, often launching from a small skiff or canoe.
Dense, waterproof and either tightly curled or marbled in texture, the breed's liver, brown or chocolate coat is its most distinctive feature, along with a keen, eager-to-please expression. The American Water Spaniel is an intelligent, biddable companion that bonds closely with its family, but it can be sensitive in temperament and somewhat reserved with strangers. It is a dog that thrives on having a job to do, and suits an active household that can offer it consistent training, daily exercise and the kind of close human contact it was bred to enjoy.
Good to know — a American Water Spaniel is best with a garden and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The American Water Spaniel emerged during the 19th century around the Fox and Wolf River valleys of Wisconsin and neighbouring Minnesota, where hunters needed an affordable, hardy retriever small enough to work from a boat yet powerful enough to handle waterfowl in cold conditions. Its exact ancestry is undocumented, but it is generally believed to descend from older water spaniel and retriever types, with breeds such as the Irish Water Spaniel, the now-extinct English Water Spaniel and various curly-coated retrievers and field spaniels commonly cited as likely contributors.
The breed was championed in the early 20th century by Dr Fred J. Pfeifer of New London, Wisconsin, whose efforts led to recognition by the United Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American Kennel Club in 1940. In 1985 it was designated the official state dog of Wisconsin. The American Water Spaniel remains rare worldwide and is not separately recognised by The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom, so British owners are few and stock is largely imported.
Temperament & family fit
American Water Spaniels are friendly, eager and strongly attached to their people, typically thriving on companionship and involvement in family life. They tend to be intelligent and quick to learn, with the cheerful working enthusiasm of a spaniel, and most are good-natured with children they have grown up alongside. Their close-bonding nature means they generally do not cope well with being left alone for long stretches and can become unhappy or destructive if isolated.
The breed is often a little reserved or cautious with strangers and unfamiliar situations, and individuals can be sensitive to harsh handling or a tense household atmosphere. Early, positive socialisation helps produce a confident, settled adult. As a flushing and retrieving gundog, the American Water Spaniel carries a notable prey drive and a love of water, which should be anticipated by anyone keeping it as a pet. It can be territorial enough to make a useful watchdog, and some are inclined to bark, so consistent, kind guidance from puppyhood is worthwhile.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Homes with a secure garden
Training & intelligence
This is a clever, willing breed that usually responds well to reward-based training, picking up commands and gundog tasks readily when motivated. Because the American Water Spaniel can be sensitive, training is most effective when it is patient, consistent and positive; heavy-handed methods tend to make it shut down or become anxious rather than improve performance. Short, varied, upbeat sessions that engage its mind suit it best.
Early socialisation and basic obedience are particularly valuable given the breed's natural wariness of strangers and its strong hunting instincts. A reliable recall is important, as the scent of game or the sight of water can prove very tempting. Channelling its abilities into gundog work, scent activities, retrieving games or canine sports gives this versatile dog the mental and physical outlet it needs and strengthens the close partnership it craves with its handler.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult American Water Spaniel typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
The breed's curly to wavy double coat is fairly low-maintenance but benefits from regular brushing, around once or twice a week, to prevent the curls from matting and to remove loose hair; the coat is naturally somewhat oily and water-repellent, so over-bathing should be avoided as it strips this protection. The ears are pendulous and should be checked and cleaned regularly to reduce the risk of infection, especially in a dog that swims often. Routine nail trimming, dental care and attention to the dog after working in water complete a straightforward grooming regime.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Feed a complete, good-quality diet appropriate to the dog's age, size and activity level, dividing the daily ration into two meals and following the manufacturer's guidance adjusted to the individual. As an active working-type breed it may need more energy when in heavy work and less when resting, so portions should be matched to condition. Monitor body weight and shape regularly and avoid overfeeding and excessive treats, as carrying excess weight places needless strain on the joints; always provide constant access to fresh water.
American Water Spaniel health & costs
Before bringing a American Water Spaniel home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£400–600 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£25–45 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£120–300 / year
Occasional pro + home brushing
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The American Water Spaniel is generally a hardy, healthy breed with a typical lifespan of around 12–15 years, but like all dogs it can be affected by certain inherited and acquired conditions. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock and aim to reduce the incidence of hereditary problems, so prospective owners should ask to see relevant health-test results for the parents.
Conditions reported in the breed include hip dysplasia, eye disorders and hormonal problems, and its pendulous ears can predispose it to ear infections, particularly given its love of water. Maintaining a healthy weight, keeping vaccinations and parasite control up to date, caring for the ears and teeth, and arranging regular veterinary check-ups all support a long and comfortable life. As with any pedigree dog, choosing a breeder who prioritises health and temperament is the single most important step a buyer can take.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Hip dysplasia — a hereditary malformation of the hip joint that can cause pain and arthritis; screening of breeding stock helps reduce risk.
- Progressive retinal atrophy — an inherited degeneration of the retina leading to gradual sight loss; DNA and eye testing of parents is advisable.
- Cataracts — clouding of the lens that can impair vision and sometimes requires surgery.
- Ear infections (otitis externa) — the long, pendulous ears and frequent swimming predispose the breed to infection without regular cleaning.
- Hypothyroidism — an underactive thyroid gland that can cause weight gain, lethargy and coat changes; usually manageable with daily medication.
- Hip and elbow joint issues — as in many active sporting dogs, joint problems can develop, so maintaining a healthy weight is important.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the American Water Spaniel; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a American Water Spaniel puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior American Water Spaniel
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Versatile, trainable working gundog
- Low-shedding curly coat
Things to consider
- Needs plenty of exercise and stimulation
- Can be sensitive and reserved with strangers
Compare the American Water Spaniel
See how the American Water Spaniel measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Frequently asked questions
What is an American Water Spaniel?
The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, curly-coated gundog developed in the United States to flush and retrieve birds on land and in cold water across the Upper Midwest. One of the few breeds genuinely native to America, it is versatile, eager to please and uncommon both there and in the UK.
How big do American Water Spaniels get?
They are a medium-sized breed, standing roughly 38 to 46 cm at the shoulder and weighing around 11 to 20 kg. Built for versatility rather than specialism, they have a sturdy, athletic frame suited to working both on land and in water.
How long do American Water Spaniels live?
The American Water Spaniel is generally a hardy breed with a typical lifespan of around 12 to 15 years. Maintaining a healthy weight, keeping vaccinations and parasite control up to date, caring for the ears and teeth, and arranging regular check-ups all help support a long, comfortable life.
What is the temperament of an American Water Spaniel?
They are friendly, eager and strongly attached to their people, thriving on companionship and family involvement. Intelligent and quick to learn, most are good-natured with children they have grown up alongside. They can be a little reserved with strangers and sensitive to harsh handling, so positive socialisation produces a confident, settled adult.
How much exercise does an American Water Spaniel need?
This is an active sporting dog that needs a good amount of daily exercise, typically well over an hour, combining physical activity with mental stimulation. Long walks, free running, swimming and retrieving games all keep it fit and contented. Without enough to occupy body and mind it can become bored, restless and prone to nuisance behaviours.
Do American Water Spaniels need a lot of grooming?
Their curly to wavy double coat is fairly low-maintenance but benefits from brushing once or twice a week to prevent matting. The coat is naturally oily and water-repellent, so avoid over-bathing, which strips this protection. The pendulous ears should be checked and cleaned regularly, especially in a dog that swims often.
Are American Water Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes, in an active home that can offer plenty of exercise, mental engagement and close human contact. They are happiest as closely involved family members rather than outdoor-only dogs, and most are good with children they have grown up with. Their dislike of long periods alone means they suit owners who are around much of the day.
What health issues affect the American Water Spaniel?
Conditions reported in the breed include hip dysplasia, eye disorders and hormonal problems, and its pendulous ears can predispose it to infections, particularly given its love of water. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock, so ask to see relevant health-test results for the parents and choose a breeder who prioritises health and temperament.
Are American Water Spaniels good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, American Water Spaniels tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does an American Water Spaniel need?
As a healthy adult, a typical American Water Spaniel needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do American Water Spaniels shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are American Water Spaniels easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. American Water Spaniels are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do American Water Spaniels bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are American Water Spaniels good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do American Water Spaniels suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A American Water Spaniel is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
Sources
- The Kennel Club (UK) — Finding the right dog and breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/
- American Kennel Club — American Water Spaniel breed profile: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/american-water-spaniel/
- PDSA — Dog health, exercise and weight advice: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/
- Blue Cross — Dog care and behaviour advice: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/
- RSPCA — Dog welfare and care: https://www.rspca.org.uk/
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.