| Country of origin: | USA |
| Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Gun dog |
| Size: | 15 to 18 in tall; 25 to 45 lbs |
| Longevity: | 11 to 13 years |
| Exercise: | Moderate |
| Training: | Easy; keep training fun |
| Grooming: | Moderate |
Wisconsin’s State Dog was probably developed by crossing a variety of water dogs, including the Irish Water Spaniel, which has given this breed its benign and obedient disposition. After flushing game, it retrieves it from the water with a typically soft mouth. This breed remains a popular hunter’s companion in the American midwest.
History
The American Water Spaniel (or AWS) was bred to be a hunting dog on water and land. They originated in the U.S. in the 19th century. In the mid-1800s, various types of dogs went into the breeding of the AWS breed. Although some of the history goes unknown, it is known they came to be in between the Fox and Wolf River Valley in Wisconsin.
Despite the interest of a dog that could work in marshes and heavy terrain, the breed headed toward extinction. Although still a rare breed today, the AWS was eventually brought back by a man named Dr. F.J. Pfeifer. He took interest in the dogs and built a foundation for them. Clubs were initiated and the breed was officially in the clear.
In the 1940s, the AWS was accepted by the AKC. As mentioned above, they are still a rare breed but were named the official state dog of their origin in Wisconsin.
Personality
The American Water Spaniel is a happy and charming hunting dog. They are hard workers and focused on their task at hand. They love as hard as they work. Their main purpose is to become the best of companions and please their owners.
Their eager attitude attributes to a dual purpose in their lives. Along with being great swimmers and great watchdogs, they tend to also work for approval of their owners. Sometimes these dogs find one owner to bond with and stick to them. They also get along great with children.
Traits
AWS dogs are a medium size dog but are very muscular. They stand at 15 to 18 inches tall and can weigh 25 to 45 pounds. Their bodies are very proportionate which makes hunting easier for them.
Their fur is double layered and unique. They can have a curly or marcel coat. Their sleek curls can be tight curls or a loose curl over their muscular body. They are limited to only three colors: liver, brown, or dark chocolate.
Their fur is waterproof and their toes are webbed. These features help their working nature as they were bred to hunt in water. This in addition to the way their bodies were made, helps them hunt efficiently and retrieve canoes whenever necessary.
Handling
Despite the heavy duty and luscious coat of the American Water Spaniel, they require only basic training. They are easy to groom and do not need any special high maintenance work. They just need to be checked regularly and maintained in the utmost healthy manner.
These pups require a lot of exercise and basic training. They can get possessive of food or destructive without any attention. Sometimes they can start barking rampages if they do not get enough exercise or attention. They need to turn their energy into fun to fully function.
Health
Just like any breed, this breed can be susceptible to particular health concerns. Some specific health issues to the AWS breed are eye disorders, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. Heredity issues are not as prevalent because of their breeding techniques.