American Water Spaniel

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated April 3, 2009)

One of the four breeds of purely American ancestry is that of the American Water Spaniel. He is quite popular among the sportsmen, sometimes referred to as a "small retriever." There was a day when he was known simply as the Water Spaniel and was very popular in the Midwest or wherever there were upland game and water. He is a hard worker and works well in the water. As a hunting dog he is an excellent worker on quail, grouse, woodcock, snipe, rabbits, and pheasant. He is an excellent retriever and able to withstand the roughest weather and the heaviest current.

The American Water Spaniel's disposition is quite amicable and active. It is his demeanor that shows intelligence, strength, and endurance. It is with his affectionate disposition and beauty, along with his endurance, that helps him to remain one of American's favorite sport dogs.

The coat is one of the physical traits that make this dog look so appealing. The coat is closely curled or it may have a marcel effect. The color is usually a solid liver or a dark chocolate. There may be some that have a little white that appears on the chest or toes. The eyes of the American Water Spaniel are very expressive, alert, and intelligent. The eye color usually matches or harmonizes with the coat.

American Water Spaniels are medium in size and both sturdy and muscular. He stands from fifteen to eighteen inches from the shoulders. The male weighs from 39 to 45 pounds, while the female weighs between twenty and forty pounds.

Additional information on the American Water Spaniel can be found at the website for the American Kennel Club.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Dealing with Your Dog's Separation Anxiety

You just came home from going out on a special date with your special someone, and you find your house torn up by your ...

Discover More

Melting Chocolate

Do you have a sweet tooth? Melt some chocolate for strawberries or homemade truffles! Learn how to do it right here.

Discover More

Tasty Leftovers

Here is tasty idea for a simple dinner, that will leave everyone happy and you will not be disappointed with all the time ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Pointer

Need a companion dog that will work well in the field and be at home with the family? You can't go wrong with a Pointer.

Discover More

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can be a great companion to any family. Considered a sporting dog, this breed loves ...

Discover More

Flat-Coated Retriever

Popular in Great Britain, the Flat-coated Retriever is known as the gamekeeper's dog. His intelligence and ease with ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 4 + 1?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)