American Water Spaniel - American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel Temperament

Eager, enthusiastic, and very intelligent, the American Water Spaniel is a dog that makes for a great companion and pet. This is a dog that has plenty of energy, especially when younger, and is loyal, dedicated, and fun to be around. The American Water Spaniel is suitable for newcomers to dog ownership as well as for the more experienced, and these dogs are very good around children that they have been brought up with, as well as with other animals. The American Water Spaniel loves to be a part of the action when it comes to family fun and activity, and neglecting your American Water Spaniel can result in boredom and destructive behavior.

The American Water Spaniel is very alert and protective, and this makes him a good watchdog, although it may mean that he is a little reserved and on guard when strangers are around. You should be mindful that the American Water Spaniel does not like to be teased, and can be quite noisy in terms of barking and whining. He can also be possessive when it comes to his toys and his food. However, all in all this is a hardy and robust dog that loves to spend time with his family, enjoys play and exercise, particularly swimming and fetch, and although he can be stubborn can also be very responsive with the right training and attitude. This breed is very adaptable in terms of living environment providing they have the company that they crave, but will fare best in a house with a fenced yard so that they can get plenty of play and exercise.
American Water Spaniel Appearance

The height of the American Water Spaniel is around 15-18 inches, and the weight is around 25-45 pounds. This breed has an oil coated curly coat, which provides them with their water resistance, and has a solid and robust build. The coat can be wavy as well as curly, and also has an undercoat. Coloring includes liver, brown, or a dark chocolate color. The American Water Spaniel has smooth hair on his face and head in contrast to the abundance of curls on the rest of his body. The ears and large and drooping, framing the face, and he sports an eager and intelligent expression
American Water Spaniel Grooming

The grooming requirements for the American Water Spaniel are not overly excessive. You should brush his coat on a weekly basis, and this should remove any dead hairs and prevent matting. You may also need to trim any stray hairs whilst grooming, and make sure that you ensure that his ear canals are clean and dry, particularly if he has been in the water. Also, clip the hair around his feet and the top part of the ears.
American Water Spaniel Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The lifespan of the American Water Spaniel is around 10-15 years. Some of the health conditions and disorders that are associated with this breed include cataracts, thyroid problems, epilepsy, retinal detachment, luxating patella, PRA, HD, and seizures. Parents of your puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.
American Water Spaniel History

The American Water Spaniel originates in the United States, and although there is no clear knowledge with regards to its exact origins, it is thought that this breed may descent from the likes of the Curly Coated retriever, the Old English Water Spaniel, and the Irish Water Spaniel. Bred to be water retrievers and to retrieve ducks, geese, and rabbits, the breed was first registered with the AKC in 1940.

# AKASkiff dogs
# SizeSmall/Medium
# Ease of trainingMedium
# GroomingMedium
# SheddingMedium
# Exercise neededA walk and a good run daily
# Energy levelMedium
# ProtectionMedium, alert and barks at strangers
# Good with childrenYes, when raised with them
# Health clearancesOFA, CERF
# Popularity133/155