American Water Spaniel — breed guide
Wisconsin's state dog — a compact Great Lakes retriever small enough to work from a skiff without capsizing it.
At a glance
- Group
- sporting
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 11–20 kg (24–44 lb)
- Life span
- 10–14 years
- Coat
- Dense, curly or marcel-waved, oily coat
Living with a American Water Spaniel
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Moderate shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Eager · Clever · Sensitive · One-family
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Cardiac issues
- Ear infections
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a American Water Spaniel good with kids?
Generally yes. American Water Spaniels are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a American Water Spaniel good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a American Water Spaniel need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a American Water Spaniel handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a American Water Spaniel's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.