Height: 15-18 inches
Weight: 25-45 lbs.
Life Span: 10-12 yrs.
Breed Group: Sporting Dogs
Overview
American water spaniels, still bred primarily to work, do best with experienced
dog owners who want to share an active exercise program with their animals.
These dogs must be obedience trained and acclimated to being left alone
or they will develop such behavior problems as barking and whining. American
water spaniels get along with other animals and enjoy children as long as
they are exposed to them at an early age.
Appearance
The coat can be closely curled or marcel (uniformly waved). Coat color is
solid liver or dark chocolate.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
American water spaniels shed lightly but continually and so require weekly
brushing. They need daily vigorous walks and runs in a secured area. They
love to swim.
Origins
The American water spaniel originated in the American Midwest. The Irish
water spaniel and the curly-coated retriever are probably ancestors, but
little else is known about the breed's origins.
This dog was bred to be a superb shooting dog, retriever, and swimmer; it
was expected to retrieve from skiffs or canoes.
Special Alerts
The American water spaniel is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
