American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel (AWS) is a uniquely American breed, developed in the mid-19th century in the Great Lakes region, particularly Wisconsin and Minnesota. Emerging during the 1860s, the breed was crafted by hunters seeking a versatile, compact dog capable of retrieving waterfowl and upland game in the challenging environments of the Midwest’s marshes, rivers, and dense forests. The AWS is believed to descend from crosses between the now-extinct English Water Spaniel, the Irish Water Spaniel, and possibly the Curly-Coated Retriever or Field Spaniel. These ancestors contributed to the AWS’s distinctive curly coat, water-repellent qualities, and tenacious work ethic.

By the late 19th century, the AWS was a favored companion among Midwest hunters, valued for its ability to work in cold, icy waters and retrieve game from boats without taking up much space. Its small to medium size—typically 25 to 45 pounds—made it ideal for canoe-based hunting, a common practice in the region. However, as larger retriever breeds like the Labrador and Golden Retriever gained popularity in the early 20th century, the AWS’s numbers dwindled. By the 1920s, the breed faced near extinction.

Dr. Fred J. Pfeifer, a Wisconsin breeder, played a pivotal role in saving the AWS. In the 1920s, he began a concerted effort to standardize and promote the breed, establishing the American Water Spaniel Club in 1937. His work led to the breed’s recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1940 as a member of the Sporting Group. Wisconsin honored the AWS as its state dog in 1985, cementing its regional legacy. Today, the breed remains relatively rare, with an estimated population of fewer than 3,000, but it retains a loyal following among hunters and dog enthusiasts.

Breed Standards

According to the AKC breed standard, the American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, standing 15 to 18 inches at the shoulder and weighing 25 to 45 pounds, with males slightly larger than females. The breed’s hallmark is its dense, curly, or wavy coat, which is water-resistant and well-suited for cold, wet environments. Coat colors range from solid liver, brown, or chocolate, sometimes with small white markings on the toes or chest. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting but is designed to protect the dog from harsh weather and rough terrain.

The AWS has a muscular, compact build with a well-proportioned head, broad skull, and expressive eyes that convey intelligence and alertness. Its ears are long, lobular, and set slightly above eye level, contributing to its keen sense of hearing. The tail, often docked in working dogs, is moderately long, tapered, and carried with a slight upward curve, acting as a rudder when swimming.

Temperamentally, the AWS is described as eager, intelligent, and friendly, with a strong desire to please. It is an energetic breed, requiring regular exercise to satisfy its working instincts. The standard emphasizes the breed’s versatility, noting its ability to retrieve from land or water, flush game, and serve as a loyal companion. The AWS should move with a smooth, ground-covering gait, reflecting its athleticism and stamina.

History of Hunting in the United States

The American Water Spaniel’s hunting history is deeply tied to the American Midwest, where it excelled in the diverse landscapes of marshes, lakes, and upland fields. In the 19th century, hunters needed a dog that could handle the region’s unpredictable weather and terrain, from icy waters to dense thickets. The AWS proved ideal, capable of retrieving ducks, geese, and upland game like pheasant and grouse. Its compact size allowed it to work efficiently in small boats, a critical advantage for waterfowl hunters navigating narrow rivers and lakes.

Unlike larger retrievers, the AWS combined the roles of a retriever and a spaniel, flushing game from cover and retrieving it with a soft mouth to avoid damaging the quarry. Its water-resistant coat and webbed feet made it particularly adept at swimming in cold waters, even breaking through thin ice to retrieve game. These qualities earned it a reputation as a “do-it-all” hunting dog among early American sportsmen.

While the breed’s popularity waned with the rise of specialized retrievers, it remains a favorite among hunters who value its versatility and compact size. Modern AWS owners often use the breed in hunting trials and field work, where its agility, keen nose, and tireless energy shine. Beyond hunting, the AWS has adapted to roles in search and rescue and as a family companion, though its hunting instincts remain strong.

Conclusion

The American Water Spaniel is a testament to American ingenuity, bred to meet the specific needs of Midwest hunters in the 19th century. Its rich history, defined by resilience and versatility, is matched by a breed standard that emphasizes its working ability, distinctive coat, and spirited personality. Though rare today, the AWS continues to serve as a skilled hunter and loyal companion, embodying the spirit of its Great Lakes origins.