Today, we are going to talk about a dog breed that can work both on water and land. It is the American Water Spaniel dog breed. They are very famous for their quick learning and intelligence. They can retrieve upland game birds and waterfowl. What’s more, this dog breed is very clever for various training activities like swimming and hunting. If you want to know more about them, the information below will help you.
History of Water Spaniel Dog
If we talk about Water Spaniel dogs’ history, they were developed in the Wisconsin States and Minnesota States in the United States as versatile hunting dogs in the 19th century. Hunters and farmers used this dog breed as a special dog that could work in both water and land, including lakes, forests, and marshes.
In 1920, The United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognized water spaniel as a breed. After the UKC, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized this dog breed in 1940.
Water Spaniel Breed Standards
Here are some key aspects of the American Water Spaniel breed standard.
- Head: The head is moderate in length.
- Eyes: Eyes are somewhat round with yellow color.
- Ears: Their floppy ears are well-covered with close curls.
- Neck: their neck is round and medium length.
- Body: They have a sturdily constructed and well-developed body.
- Tail: It has a moderate length and is covered with hair.
Characteristics of Water Spaniel
Below are the main characteristics that help you easily know about the water spaniel.
- Group: sporting
- Other Names: American brown spaniel and American brown Water Spaniel
- Size: medium size
- Height: 15 to 18 Inches
- Weight: 30 to 45 pounds (male) 25 to 40 pounds (female)
- Coat: It’s a curly double coat
- Coat colour: liver, brown, and chocolate
- Temperament: obedient, intelligent, trainable and friendly
- Life span: 10 to 14 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Puppy Price: between $1200- $1500
- Origin: United States
American Water Spaniel Breed Temperament
Water spaniels are very famous for their distinct personality traits. They are very friendly, energetic, and versatile. But Those traits can be different from each other. Now, we are going to explain the common temperaments among them.
- Energetic: Water Spaniels have a lot of energy and are very active. They try to enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting and swimming.
- Versatile: In the past, this dog breed was bred for retrieving and hunting. So they can continue their versatile nature. And. These dogs can adapt to various outdoor pursuits and are clever in both water and on land.
- Playful: They have a fun-loving side and love to enjoy interactive games and toys with children and owners because of their playful nature.
- Adaptable: Some dog breeds can’t adapt to different living environments. But when it comes to the water spaniels, with proper mental stimulation and necessary exercises, they can adapt to any rural or urban environment.
How to Maintain Water Spaniel Dog
Here is a list of tips on how to properly maintain an American Staffordshire Terrier as a great family pet.
- Health: Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can maintain your dog’s overall health.
- Grooming: This dog breed has a dense, waterproof double coat. So you should brush it using a rubber-tipped pin brush for summer and use a slicker brush for shedding season to remove the loose hair.
- Exercise: Water Spaniels want to do exercises, including dock diving events, agility, field trials, or obedience. Because they love outdoor athletics like swimming and hunting, if you can’t provide these types of exercises for them, they may become destructive and bark.
- Training: Give them proper training according to their talents and energy, including sports such as retrieving waterfowl, flush game, field events, flyball, barn hunting, and tracking agility. This training helps them to well-adjust with people and other animals.
- Nutrition: As their owner, you should give them high-quality dog food, including home-prepared foods or commercially manufactured foods, according to their size, age, and activity level. In addition, please always try to give them clean and fresh water.
What Are the Health Problems of Water Spaniel
Like other dog breeds, water spaniel dogs have certain health problems, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Autoimmune Disorders. In addition, here are some common health issues with more details.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition among water spaniel dogs. They must endure this orthopedic issue if their hip joint doesn’t develop correctly. So, Care about this issue, especially when they are in childhood.
- Ear Infections: This dog breed can be prone to ear infections because of their floppy ears, and If those ears are not kept clean and dry, they can become infected. But regular ear cleaning can prevent this issue.
- Skin Allergies: This dog breed has skin allergies, including hair loss, itching, and rashes. But you can prevent these issues by grooming routine and proper diet.
- Heart issues: Water Spaniel dogs may be prone to heart issues like mitral valve disease. However, regular heart examinations by a veterinary surgeon can help to improve heart health.
Water Spaniel Dog Recognitions
Following major canine organizations recognized this dog breed as American Water Spaniel.
- The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized this dog breed as American Water spaniel dog in 1940.
- Since 1920, the United Kennel Club (UKC) has recognized a water spaniel as a breed.
Water Spaniel Dog Price
Water Spaniel puppies cost between $1200- $1500 USD. But it can change because of several factors, such as the dog’s pedigree and location. This rare breed can be bought from a reputable and knowledgeable breeder.
American Water Spaniel Breed FAQ
These are the main questions that people ask about water spaniel dogs.
Do American Water Spaniels Have Hair or Fur?
Water Spaniels have a waterproof double coat, including under and outer layers. The underlayer is protective, and the outer layer is crisp, curly, or wavy. And Their long, floppy ears are covered with curly hair.
How Much Is a Water Spaniel?
The water spaniel puppy price is between $1200- $1500. If you want a water Spaniel puppy to adopt, please get in touch with the Irish Water Spaniel Club of America.
How Old Is the Irish Water Spaniel?
Irish Water Spaniel lifespan is 10 to 12 years. However, it depends on various factors like overall care, diet, and genetics.
Conclusion
The American Water Spaniel is one of the suitable dogs to adopt in your family among different kinds of dog breeds because they are friendly with people and children and love to enjoy their time with their owners.