American Water Spaniel Breed Profile

Description

The American Water Spaniel is an active, muscular and hardy dog. It has a crisp-textured, tightly curled or wavy outer coat lined with a protective undercoat.

Coloring

Coat colors include liver or chocolate.

Temperament

Friendly, energetic, confident persistent and obedient. The American Water Spaniel is a pleasant , willing dog that is highly sensitive, so obedience training should be calm, quiet, and persuasive, rather then demanding or sharp.

Origin

The American Water Spaniel originated in the United States, and is the product of selective breeding between the Curly Coated Retriever and the Irish Water Spaniel. The breed first appeared in 1865 and quickly emerged as the premier all purpose gun dog. Before the AKC recognized the breed in 1940, fanciers of the breed tried to keep them out of the show ring, for fear of damaging the breedÆs hunting prowess.

Care Level

Easy