Description

The American Water Spaniel was developed as an all-around hunting dog, bred to retrieve from skiff or canoes he was sometimes referred to as the “Skiff dog”. The American Water Spaniel is an active muscular dog, medium in size with a curly coat coated with oil making him water resistant. Primarily a hunting dog, the American Water Spaniel also makes an ideal family pet who will interact well with a family. The American Water Spaniel can bark a lot if not properly trained and it can hunt in water as well.

Size of Male: Height: 15-18 inches Weight: 30-45 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 15-18 inches Weight: 25-40 pounds

Temperament

The American Water Spaniel is intelligent and very trainable. American Water Spaniel is eager to learn and very enthusiastic about its work. American Water Spaniel is used above all for hunting quail, duck, pheasant, grouse, and rabbit. At the same time, it also makes a good guard dog and companion. Friendly, energetic, confident, persistent and obedient. The American Water Spaniel is a nice, willing dog that is highly sensitive, and therefore, obedience training should be calm, quiet, and persuasive, rather than demanding or sharp. The American Water Spaniel is an easy going, loving companion that is usually excellent with children, but can could snap defensively if startled or harshly disciplined. Heavy-handed training methods are not necessary with the American Water Spaniel. Socialization of the American Water Spaniel at an early age can avoid potential aggressiveness and timidity as an adult. They usually get along with non-canine pets. The American Water Spaniel loves attention, but can entertain itself as well. Some snore, some bark and some whine quite a bit. They are enthusiastic swimmers and make wonderful hunters in difficult waters, in the woods and over uneven terrain. This breed likes to roam. Some may have the tendency to drool.

Living Conditions

The American Water Spaniel will do okay in an apartment as long as it gets enough exercise as with most hunting dogs. The American Water Spaniel is moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard for it to get enough exercise.

Upkeep

Like all hunting dogs, the American Water Spaniel needs daily exercise, such as a long walk and a sprint. The coat of American Water Spaniel is oily and needs weekly brushing. Hair of American Water Spaniel may be clipped from the feet and topknot. The ears of the American Water Spaniel should be checked regularly for pests and to prevent infection as the long ears do not really allow air to pass through. As moisture builds up in its ears it can cause the dog to be susceptible to ears infections if not cleaned properly.

Health

Major concerns: Mitral valve disease

Minor concerns: Progressive retinal atrophy, Hip dysplasia, Patent Duct Asteriosus

Life expectancy: 10 – 15 years