The American Water Spaniel

General Qualities

Standing about 15" - 18" at the shoulder and weighing in at between 25 and 45 pounds the AWS is considered a medium sized sporting breed. It is a true dual-purpose dog bred to be a companion, to live and work in close quarters, hunt, flush, and retrieve game of all kinds. The American Water Spaniel performs well in all endeavors but excels in the field as either a waterfowl retriever or upland flushing dog.

Hunting Qualities

The American Water Spaniel is a fast-working dog with a high prey drive in the upland. Whilst they may not work the field with the flash and speed of an English Springer Spaniel, the AWS’ athletic physique allows them to move through the field with desire and determination to find game. With even the slightest of hunting experience, AWS quickly learn where game is most likely to be located and will focus their efforts in those areas, rather than wasting their time in unproductive areas.

The AWS is a very tenacious hunter, with an amazing scenting ability, they are methodical in their work and stay close to the gun on hunts. Many American Water Spaniels have a hard flush yet will hesitate just before putting the bird in flight, some will have a softer flush due to specific training programs.

American Water Spaniels enjoy the water, they will spend countless hours retrieving from a skiff or from a riverbank without complaint although they may not always have the splashiest entry, once in the water they will swim with absolute determination to retrieve.

For a more specific description of the American Water Spaniel’s hunting traits, visit our Field Working Qualities page.

Life with an American Water Spaniel

Typical of the spaniel breeds, American Water Spaniels are active dogs that will do best when given the opportunity to work off some of their energy. Activities like field or obedience training, runs in the park, swimming, or a good play session in the backyard are some of the ways to let a young - or old - AWS work off its pent up energy. The AWS that is not given the opportunity to work off its excess energy may develop inappropriate behaviors that will lead to frustration for both the owner and the dog.

While many consider the AWS to be a relatively low maintenance breed, there is no doubt that it will require a bit of grooming from time to time. With proper socialization and supervision, the breed is good with children, they are also good with other animals, including cats, if introduced to them early in life. American Water Spaniels are friendly in nature, but are usually more reserved towards strangers. They show love to all family members, but they do have a tendency to form close bonds with usually one individual.

Jack of all Trades

The AWS has been known to excel in a variety of settings and events; from agility, barn hunt, scent work, and trick competitions to dock diving and skijoring. Due to their thick coat, the AWS tends to do well in colder climates, but has been known to enjoy the warmer regions if not asked to exert themselves in the heat. The AWS is eager to please and very capable of finding mischief. They are known as a happy, smart, and sometimes stubborn dog. They have the laid back demeaner when you want to relax, and the upbeat energy when you’re out and about. Small in structure, but big in drive - these dogs require their owners to do their homework regarding obedience training and rule setting. If you are committed to working with your dog, these little brown dogs will be your best companion.