Essential Facts About American Water Spaniels: A Comprehensive Guide

The American Water Spaniel, a breed cherished for its protective nature and distinctive bark, has a history that dates back to the mid-19th century. Despite not being developed as guard dogs, these sturdy little gundogs have made a significant mark in the world of hunting and companionship.

Registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 1940, the American Water Spaniel's origins can be traced back to earlier times. The first official American Water Spaniel, named Curly Pfeifer, was registered with the United Kennel Club in 1920 by its breeder, Dr FJ Pfeifer.

Before the AKC recognition, the state of Wisconsin had already acknowledged the American Water Spaniel as its official dog breed. It was only in 1986 that the breed was officially named the state dog of Wisconsin.

These versatile dogs are well-known for their high energy levels, requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. They are adept at retrieving downed waterfowl from lakes and rivers, and are expert flushers, springing upland game birds such as grouse and pheasant. Interestingly, they were developed specifically to retrieve from boats.

The American Water Spaniel comes in three different colours: brown, chocolate, and liver. They are easily identifiable by their dense, waterproof, and curly coat. The breed's coat can be either wavy or tightly curled.

While they are typically friendly, sweet, and playful, American Water Spaniels can be wary of strangers. They have webbed toes, which make them excellent swimmers. However, their eye colour, although fairly pale, ranging from light brown to hazel, should not be yellow, as this is considered a fault.

The population of American Water Spaniels is relatively small, with approximately 3,000 existing mainly in the US. It is extremely uncommon to find an American Water Spaniel in other countries.

Since 2005, the American Water Spaniel (AWS) has been classified as a spaniel by the AKC, enabling it to participate in spaniel-hunting tests. However, due to its retriever heritage, it also has to pass two "retrieving certification tests" (involving a 40-60yd water retrieve) to earn a hunting test title.

The development of the American Water Spaniel is believed to have involved the Irish water spaniel, curly-coated retriever, English water spaniel, and field spaniel. It is interesting to note that the American Water Spaniel, the American Cocker Spaniel, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Boykin spaniel, and the American water spaniel are some of the hunting breeds that were developed in the US.

In the early 20th century, numbers of the American Water Spaniel dwindled severely as hunting became less prevalent, and larger British breeds increased in popularity across the Atlantic. It was a Wisconsinite called Dr JF Pfeifer who is credited with both saving and establishing the breed as we know it today.

In summary, the American Water Spaniel is a sturdy little gundog with a rich history and a versatile skillset. Their protective nature, distinctive bark, and high energy levels make them an excellent companion for those who appreciate a dog that makes itself heard and cherishes its humans.