American Water Spaniel: Compact, Capable, and Completely Midwest

Meet the American Water Spaniel. Small enough for a fishing boat, tough enough for icy lakes, and cheerful enough to live with kids. This all-American bird dog balances a steady temperament, medium size, real exercise needs, and practical grooming. If you want a loyal retriever with a curly, waterproof coat and a brain that loves a job, keep reading. Developed in Wisconsin and still rare in 2025, the AWS is both a hunting partner and a devoted family dog.

You’ll get a clear look at history and key traits, real-world temperament, size and coat details, health and grooming basics, training and exercise tips, and what daily life with an AWS is like.

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American Water Spaniel overview: history, size, temperament, and what to expect

Born in 1800s Wisconsin, the American Water Spaniel was bred to work from small boats in cold rivers and marshes. Hunters likely crossed Irish Water Spaniels, the now-extinct English Water Spaniel, and Curly Coated Retrievers to get a compact, all-purpose retriever with stamina in cold water. The breed earned UKC recognition in 1920 and AKC recognition in 1940. It is the state dog of Wisconsin.

The AWS stays rare today. Current data shows it ranks near the bottom of AKC popularity lists in 2025, and the total population in the U.S. is estimated in the low thousands. That keeps the breed close to its roots as a working gun dog and explains why finding a puppy often means a wait list.

Size sits in the sweet spot for a true “boat dog.” Adults are about 15 to 18 inches at the shoulder and 25 to 45 pounds. The coat is curly or wavy, dense, and waterproof, usually in shades from liver to dark chocolate. That coat protects skin in cold water and helps prevent rapid heat loss.

Temperament is loyal, intelligent, and energetic. These dogs are people-oriented, great with respectful kids when socialized, and naturally alert with strangers. They shine when retrieving, love water, and bond closely with their family. Regular exercise and training keep that drive pointed in the right direction. For a deeper traits breakdown, the AKC breed profile and VCA Hospitals overview offer helpful benchmarks.

Pros:

• Compact size, easy to manage on land and in a boat
• Smart, trainable, and eager to work
• Waterproof coat and strong retrieving drive

Cons:

• Needs daily exercise and mental work
• Can be wary with strangers without socialization
• Coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats

Wisconsin roots and rare status in 2025

Market hunters needed a dog that could ride in small skiffs, jump into frigid water, and bring back ducks without fuss. That is how the American Water Spaniel was shaped. UKC recognized the breed in 1920, and the AKC followed in 1940. In 2025, it remains one of the least common breeds in North America, with most dogs clustered in the Upper Midwest. Interest is growing among hunters who want a practical, medium-size retriever that fits smaller watercraft and aligns with traditional methods.

For broader historical context, see the American Water Spaniel entry on Wikipedia.

Size, coat, and colors: what you will see

• Height: 15 to 18 inches at the shoulder
• Weight: 25 to 45 pounds
• Build: Compact and muscular with a level back
• Ears: Long, pendant ears with curls or waves
• Tail: Moderately long, carried straight or slightly curved

Coat is wavy to tightly curled, dense, and naturally water-resistant. Colors run from liver to rich chocolate. That waterproof structure insulates in cold water and helps the dog dry quickly. It also tangles if neglected, so plan for regular brushing and light de-matting behind the ears, under the collar, and in the feathering.

Temperament and personality in daily life

American Water Spaniels are friendly, eager to please, and steady. Energy is moderate to high, especially in young dogs. They are alert with strangers and make a decent watchdog without being pushy or aggressive. Early socialization builds confidence and smooth manners. Most bond tightly with their family and thrive when included in daily activities, from training sessions to hikes to time on the dock.

For a plain-language care overview, check the PetMD breed guide.

Fun facts and quick pros and cons

Fun facts:

• Wisconsin’s official state dog since 1985
• Designed to hunt from small boats on rivers and lakes
• Compact build helps in thick cover and tight spaces
• Said to have influenced early Boykin Spaniel lines
• Coat curls vary from loose waves to tight ringlets

Pros:

• Trainable and responsive
• Versatile hunter and family companion
• Manageable size for most homes

Cons:

• Needs exercise every day
• Can be vocal if bored
• Regular grooming required to prevent mats

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pottyregisteredpuppies.com offers American Water Spaniel puppies and prices

Looking for an American Water Spaniel puppy? Availability is limited, and waiting lists are common. Check reputable breeders, breed clubs, and trusted marketplaces. Visit kennel sites, ask about health screenings, and request proof of hip and eye clearances.

If you are exploring listings, pottyregisteredpuppies.com may feature American Water Spaniel puppies with current pricing and availability. Because this breed is rare, expect timing and costs to vary by breeder, location, and litter plans. Always ask about vet records, socialization, and the return policy before placing a deposit.

For baseline expectations on traits and care, the The Spruce Pets AWS guide is a helpful primer.

Health and grooming: keep your American Water Spaniel comfortable and clean

The average lifespan is about 12 to 14 years. Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, eye issues like cataracts or progressive retinal problems, ear infections related to floppy ears and moisture, and possible skin or food allergies. Responsible breeders screen hips and eyes before breeding, so ask to see the results. Plan on annual vet visits and keep a simple record of vaccines, tests, and dental care.

Coat care is manageable with a routine. Brush two to three times per week to prevent mats. Use a slicker brush and a comb for the areas behind the ears, under the collar, and in the feathering. Bathe every few months, or after a muddy adventure. Rinse off lake water to reduce odor and skin irritation. Trim nails every 2 to 4 weeks, and brush teeth several times a week. Check ears weekly, especially after swims.

Without enough activity, AWS dogs can gain weight. Feed a balanced diet measured to your dog’s age, activity, and metabolism. Use treats for training, and count them toward daily calories. If you need a baseline on size and energy, the VCA Hospitals profile outlines typical height, weight, and exercise needs.

Common health issues and a smart vet care timeline

Watch for:

• Hips: stiffness after rest, bunny hopping, slowing on stairs
• Eyes: cloudiness, bumping into objects, excessive tearing
• Ears: redness, odor, head shaking, scratching
• Skin: itching, hot spots, dull coat, recurring ear issues

Suggested timeline:

• Puppy: core vaccines, fecal checks, early exams, microchip
• 1 year and up: annual wellness visit, parasite prevention, dental check
• Dental cleanings: as advised by your vet, based on tartar and gum health
• Senior (7 to 8 years and up): twice-yearly exams, bloodwork, eye checks, mobility screening

Plan a pet insurance policy or a dedicated savings fund for unexpected costs. For an at-a-glance overview of breed traits and care basics, the AKC breed page is a reliable reference.

Grooming routine for a curly, waterproof coat

Weekly checklist:

• Brush and comb 2 to 3 times per week to prevent mats
• Focus on behind the ears, armpits, and under the collar
• After swims, rinse with fresh water and towel dry
• Wipe paws and check between toes for debris
• Use a mild dog shampoo and a light detangler spray
• Keep nails short and check teeth

A slicker brush and a stainless steel comb cover most needs. Avoid over-bathing, which can strip coat oils and reduce natural water resistance. If a mat forms, work it out gently with your fingers and a detangler before using scissors.

Ear, skin, and allergy care tips

Moisture can fuel ear infections. After swimming or bathing, gently dry the ear flap and outer canal with cotton pads. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner once a week or after heavy swimming. Signs of infection include redness, odor, head shaking, and dark discharge. Call your vet if symptoms persist.

For allergies, track patterns. Seasonal itching may link to pollen, while year-round symptoms may point to food triggers. Try a limited-ingredient diet trial with your vet’s help. Regular rinses after outdoor play can reduce allergens on the coat. If hot spots or chronic ear problems recur, ask your vet about a dermatology plan.

For additional perspective on temperament and activity level, visit the PetMD overview.

Is the American Water Spaniel hypoallergenic?

The AWS is not fully hypoallergenic. Shedding is moderate, and dander is present. Regular brushing, bathing on a schedule, and air purifiers can help reduce irritants in the home. Before you commit, spend time with an AWS to test sensitivity. Breeders or breed clubs can often arrange meet-and-greets.

Quick reference: size, coat, and activity

Trait	Typical Range or Notes
Height	15 to 18 inches
Weight	25 to 45 pounds
Coat	Curly or wavy, dense, waterproof
Colors	Liver to dark chocolate
Energy	Moderate to high
Family Fit	Bonded companion, good with kids when socialized
Watchdog Level	Alert, not aggressive

Living with an American Water Spaniel: training, exercise, and real life

Daily life with an AWS is active and rewarding. These dogs need a job, even if it is a fun one. Think short obedience sessions, fetch drills, scent games, dock diving practice, or a jog by the lake. Plan for 60 to 90 minutes of total activity most days. A bored AWS invents its own entertainment.

Training is straightforward with rewards and clear structure. Use short, upbeat sessions and vary the tasks to keep the dog engaged. AWS dogs read people well and can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Calm leadership, timing, and consistency go a long way. Early socialization with kids, visitors, and other dogs builds confidence and trims any wary edges.

Apartment living is possible with a solid exercise plan and regular water work or field time. A fenced yard helps with off-leash fetch, but it is not mandatory if you commit to daily outings and training. If you hunt, you will appreciate a dog that moves easily in a canoe, tracks downed birds, and delivers to hand. If you do not hunt, field games and water retrieves meet the same needs.

For a high-level summary that ties history to modern living, the Wikipedia article offers additional context.

How rare is the American Water Spaniel in 2025?

The American Water Spaniel remains one of the least common breeds in the United States in 2025, often ranked near the bottom of AKC popularity lists. Estimates suggest only a few thousand exist nationwide, mostly in the Upper Midwest. That rarity protects working instincts but limits puppy availability. Expect wait lists, screening calls, and travel if you want a well-bred puppy.

If you are just starting your research, the AKC breed information page and The Spruce Pets guide are good sources to cross-check details.

Conclusion

The American Water Spaniel is a compact worker with a big heart. It was built for cold water and close partnership, and it still shines in both. If you can meet daily exercise needs, stick to a simple grooming routine, and welcome a smart, attentive dog into your life, the AWS will pay you back with loyal companionship and eager retrieves. Want to see if the fit is right? Meet a breeder, watch an AWS train, and spend time by the water. Your next fishing buddy might be waiting on the dock.