American Water Spaniel

Overview of American Water Spaniels

American water spaniels are also prone to patent ductus arteriosus, a defect that can lead to heart disease and/or heart failure, and pulmonic stenosis, the malformation of a heart valve which can block the flow of blood from heart to lungs.

American Water Spaniels skillfully barked to alert their owners to hunters in trees, and flushed birds which include waterfowl, greater prairie chickens, quail, pheasant, and ruffed grouse out of their hiding places on the ground.

The American Water Spaniel is probably best known for his or her rich brown or dark chocolate water proof coat as well as their “over-sized” ears that will hang down below their head all the way to their shoulders.

American Water Spaniels are susceptible to a condition called Patent Ductus Arteriosis, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart does not close shortly after birth as it should.

American Water Spaniels don’t need to be bathed very often, but if he spends any time in saltwater or an algae-filled pond or lake, you should rinse your pet off with a hose when you get home.

American Water Spaniel temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

American water spaniel, breed of sporting dog originating in the United States in the late 1800s, bred to retrieve on land or to leap into the water from a boat to retrieve birds.

The American Water Spaniel is the Wisconsin state dog The breed originated in the areas along the Fox River and its tributary the Wolf River during the early 19th century.

American Water Spaniels have a dense waterproof coat along with thick padded feet with webbed toes making them excellent for swimming through cold and icy waters.

American water spaniels are medium-sized, muscular dogs that stand from about 15 to 18 inches tall and weigh from 25 to 45 pounds (11 to 20 kilograms).

Allergies

Breed

Also, when hunters shot at birds in flight, the American Water Spaniel dove and swam in rivers and lakes to retrieve the game.So there is really no one area where the American Water Spaniel excels above other hunting dogs – but it is a breed that can learn almost any task, adapt to almost any terrain and weather conditions, and learn to hunt whatever bird or small game you want.The key is in the training.There have also been cases of American Water Spaniels used to hunt rabbits and other small mammals.

Coat

It’s clear that the American Water Spaniel was bred to work in cold environments- this breed is recognizable by its luscious brown, chocolate, or liver coat that is either tightly curled or wavy (known as “marcel pattern”).Standing between 15 to 18 inches tall, the female American Water Spaniels can weigh between 25 and 40 pounds, while the males are slightly larger, weighing between 30 and 45 pounds.The American Water Spaniels are similar to their Irish Water Spaniel cousins, which are larger.The coat actually has an oily feel to it, which can give off doggy odor.The winter coat of the American Water Spaniel consists of two layers- the outside layer is thick enough to protect the breed from thick foliage such as briars, and the inside layer is made for insulation of warmth.This coat is dense and waterproof, and the toes are webbed and thickly padded.

Energy

If he gets lots of exercise and playtime, the American Water Spaniel can do well in smaller living situations such as an apartment or condominium, but he’s a country dog at heart, and is happiest when he’s got plenty of open space to run off his natural energy.

Eye Problems

American Water Spaniels are known to suffer from eye problems such as progressive retinal and atrophy and cataracts.These conditions are usually inherited and are diagnosed before the dogs are a year old.

Genetic Predispositions

At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your American Brown Spaniel looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for American Water Spaniels.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

Grooming

During the summer the coat is thinner and may only require weekly grooming, but as the coat thickens in the winter, the grooming requirements of the American Water Spaniel can increase.During the summer, their thinner coat does well with a rubber-tipped pin brush, and during the winter the coat does better with a slicker brush that will remove the dead hair from the undercoat.The American Water Spaniel does not shed much, but his dense, waterproof coat requires brushing at least a few times per week.Your pet’s nails should also be trimmed regularly, and his teeth should be cleaned with special doggy toothpaste whenever he visits the veterinarian for a check-up.

Health

Finally, however tempting it might be to give your American Water Spaniel a bowl of milk or cottage cheese, too much calcium is not healthy for him.Fish oil is another ingredient you should look for in the dog food you buy, and the Omega 3 in the oil helps keep an American Water Spaniel’s coat shiny and healthy.It can cause bone problems, rather than strengthening bones – as it does for humans.

Heart Disease

The AWS is predisposed to mitral valve disease, a condition which causes the heart to murmur and work less efficiently over time.The most serious problems regularly affecting the American water spaniel are found in the heart.

Infections

American Water Spaniels are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

Life expectancy

Some have white on the chest and toes.The ears are long and covered with curly hair, and the tail is moderately long and feathered.The life expectancy of the American water spaniel is about 10 to 13 years.They have a distinctive curly or wavy outer coat in liver or dark chocolate.

Obesity

As to the dog food, many owners are willing to cook and mix food for their dogs.Commercial dog food is fine, although it is a good idea to examine the mix to make sure it is suitable for this dog.Dog foods containing white rice, soy, beet pulp and horsemeat should be avoided.Like many high-energy canines, American Water Spaniels love to eat, and while the risk of obesity is not as high as in such dogs as the English Bulldog, it must not be overlooked.Other than training and occasional rewards for good behavior, treats should be kept to a minimum.The best is a mix of poultry, lamb, fish meal, wheat and corn.This can take about one or two hours a week.

Personality

However, the American Water Spaniel is just as skilled in retrieval as a Labrador or Golden Retriever.In regard to personality, the American Water Spaniel can seem less exuberant than his English Springer Spaniel cousin.The American Water Spaniel seems to understand how charming he is- he enjoys being the center of attention and may bark when he feels he is being ignored.

Social

American Water Spaniel is a “one person dog”, and may behave aggressively towards strange dogs.However, if you socialize your American Water Spaniel, he can learn to tolerate other dogs in his vicinity and will get along with any other dogs you own.This is a territorial breed, and a watchdog, and doesn’t have any need to play with other canines.

Training

Also, this is a breed that doesn’t appreciate numerous repetitions of a particular command or boring drills.It is possible to teach your American Water Spaniel quite a lot of commands and tasks, but the secret to success is to start often, to engage in frequent and varied training sessions, and to be patient and let your dog set the pace.Never push your American Water Spaniel to perform, never try to rush him to learn something new, and never react harshly when he makes a mistake or fails to obey you.Once an American Water Spaniel learns a command or a task, he will remember it and is ready to learn something else new.

Are American Water Spaniels high maintenance?

The American Water Spaniels coat does not require too much maintenance.They are minimal shedders, but their thick coat can become matted and tangled if it is not given an occasional brushing.

Are American Water Spaniels Good With Kids?

American Water Spaniels are widely regarded as a friendly, gentle family dog that does well with children.Although, as with any breed, play with very young children should be supervised.

How much does an American Water Spaniel Cost? How much is an AWS puppy?

American Water Spaniels puppies cost between $1200 to $1500.Buy or adopt from a reputable breeder or someone who has dogs used for hunting/retrieving.One of the biggest hurdles you’ll have is finding lines that are relatively free of hip dysplasia.Don’s accept a flat statement, “my dogs don’t have hip dysplasia.” Make sure their parents have been checked.

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Is American Water Spaniel Child Friendly?

AWS is suitable for kids as they are gentle, loving and sweet towards children.They will play with them the whole day and relax in an adult’s lap at the end of his tiring day.

Do American Water Spaniels Shed?

American Water Spaniels (also known as AWS) were bred as all-in-one hunting companions in Wisconsin during the 1800’s.They’re athletic dogs that love swimming and hunting.

How much does an American Water Spaniel puppy cost?

The American Water Spaniel puppies are a very rare breed, and it may take you months on a waiting list to add an American Water Spaniel pup to your family in the United States.

Are American Water Spaniels good with children?

Yes.American Water Spaniels are very kid-friendly dogs.

Grooming: Do American Water Spaniels Shed?

American Water Spaniels are not known to be hypoallergenic, but remember that any dog, like a human, can have allergies.

Is American Water Spaniel a good family dog?

Yes.American water spaniels are smart, obedient, affectionate, and known for getting along with other animals and children.They also make good watchdogs.These characteristics make them excellent family pet dogs.

How should you train an AWS puppy?

An AWS puppy has a high energy level and should be trained early to learn how to use its energy and enthusiasm positively; if it’s not going to be used as a hunting dog.

Is an American Water Spaniel right for me?

Although the breed was originally bred for hunting, it isn’t just suitable for hunters.These exercise-loving dogs are a good fit for you if you enjoy spending time outdoors and are able to and enjoy offering your American Water Spaniel long hikes.Other suitable options are families, including with children, and singletons with enough time for shared activities.And this really does mean ‘activities’, because these nature lovers are no lazy office dogs.They are best off living in a house or apartment in the countryside offering them access to a fenced garden, where they can frolic and sniff around undisturbed.Neighbours shouldn’t be too sensitive to noise or ideally should live somewhat further away, since the American Water Spaniel is a good watchdog but does tend to yap.Despite training, a quiet housemate cannot be expected in most cases.Along with the time and financial commitment, you should also plan holiday arrangements in advance – or simply take your Spaniel with you – such as on a hiking holiday.More and more hotels now welcome well-trained dogs too.

Who should get an American Water Spaniel dog?

They’re the perfect family companions and are terrific with children.They form close bonds and protect and warn your family through barking should they sense danger around the house.

Did You Know That There Are Food To Help Your Dogs Gain Weight?

Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs.

So where did the American Water Spaniel (AWS) dog breed come from?

The breed was originally known as the Brown Water Spaniel.

Is the AWS a good guard dog/watchdog?

Yes.The American Water Spaniel can be trained to be a reasonably good guard dog or watchdog and companion.Friendly, energetic, confident persistent, and obedient, the American Water Spaniel is a pleasant, willing dog that is highly sensitive, so training should be calm, firm, quiet, and persuasive, rather than demanding or sharp.

Have any questions about health in your breed?

If you have any concerns about a particular health condition in your breed then you may wish to speak to your vet or you could contact your breed health co-ordinator.Breed health co-ordinators are individuals working on behalf of breed clubs and councils who are advocates for the health and welfare of their chosen breed.They acts as a spokesperson on matters of health and will collaborate with The Kennel Club on any health concerns the breed may have.

What does an American Water Spaniel dog look like?

The AWS is a medium-sized, dark-colored, thick-coated hunting and retrieving dog breed.

How to train an American Water Spaniel to hunt and retrieve?

An American Water Spaniel is a good hunting and retrieving breed of dog.Hunting requires building multiple skills and advanced behaviors.The best hunting dogs are so well trained, in fact, that they can anticipate where they need to be at all stages and become an extension of their owner.Start with different sounds with your puppy.Slowly increase the intensity of sounds as the puppy learns to respond as well as ignore sounds.Then introduce gun sounds before you take them on a hunting excursion.The American Water Spaniel will learn quickly and will naturally know what to do with some guidance.

Are they good for bird/pheasant hunting?

American Water Spaniels love to hunt! Their independent nature makes them very effective hunters once they have learned the game.They have an amazing scenting ability and develop excellent bird sense with experience.When going after wounded game, their tenacity, be it running rooster pheasants or giant Canada geese, is truly amazing to see.In the uplands, they work methodically, close to the gun and slowly enough so that one doesn’t have to hurry.They don’t waste energy and thus can hunt all day.

Looking for a puppy?

Looking for a Spaniel (American Water)? Explore our list of puppies and rescue dogs for sale near you.

Health: How long do American Water Spaniels live?

American Water Spaniels are generally healthy dogs.Always ensure that you buy from a reputable breeder as they provide the elimination of inheritable conditions.

Temperament: Are American Water Spaniels good family pets?

The breed’s an excellent multi-purpose dog.Although American Water Spaniels are bred as hunting and retrieving dogs, they have high affection levels.

What Makes American Water Spaniels Unique?

American Water Spaniels are a medium size dog that originates from the state of Wisconsin, where they were bred as hunting companions during the 19th century.

Q What other costs should I expect?

A.A good quality dry dog food, Kibble, will cost around $100 per month, plus Vet’s fees, vaccinations, medications and accessories and toys, collar, leash, grooming equipment.

How long do American Water Spaniels live?

American Water Spaniels have a lifespan of about 13 to 15 years.

Is the American Water Spaniel hypoallergenic? Do they shed?

No.American Water Spaniels are not hypoallergenic, but they don’t shed much either.Just brush their oily, water-resistant coat once in a few days to reduce hair inside the house.If you are looking for a hypoallergenic breed of dog, here is a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds.

How Much Do American Water Spaniels Cost?

American Water Spaniels cost on average between $1000 and $1500 dollars.They are rare dogs, and you will probably need to wait for a litter to be born after you contact a breeder requesting to purchase a puppy.

Size: How big do American Water Spaniels get?

The AWS breed standard is a medium-sized dog.It’s naturally muscular with a curly double coat.

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Who developed the American Water Spaniel AWS breed? And Why?

Dr.Fred J.Pfeifer developed the American Water Spaniel AWS dog breed.The American water spaniel was developed as a practical, versatile hunting dog that combined certain physical attributes with intelligence and a good disposition.No flashy show animal, the American water spaniel is described as an unadorned, utilitarian dog that earns its keep as an outstanding hunter, watchdog, and family pet.

Where do I find my American Water Spaniel?

On a worldwide basis, there are only around 3,000 dogs registered belonging to this rare breed, which are mainly in the US, where most American Water Spaniels are found in the Midwest: more precisely in Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota.If you live in Europe, it will therefore be difficult to impossible to come across an American Water Spaniel.Research online whether there is a breeder in your region or in neighbouring countries.However, if the search is still unsuccessful, European Spaniel breeds offer some very good alternatives, especially for fans of hunting.French Epagneul breeds can also be suitable, especially because they are good family dogs as well as being deployed for hunting.If you’re solely looking for a family dog, you have the choice of various other breeds which are often even better suited than these rare American dogs.You can of course also weigh up whether to import an American Water Spaniel from the US, though this does involve a good deal of effort.In addition, you should visit the breeder at their home before making a purchase in order to see how the young dogs are growing up.Hence, adopting overseas should be well prepared and subject to long-term planning.

What are the main characteristics of an American Water Spaniel?

The AWS is an adaptable and intelligent dog that was bred as a gundog to be agile on land and water while hunting in the Great Lakes area of Wisconsin.

What you should never overfeed a dog?

Carbohydrates.You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used.

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History of American Water Spaniels

In 1913, Albert Heim advocated to increase the population of the Sennenhund breeds, and the dog breeds were entered into … appenzeller sennenhund auswahl haltung erziehung beschäftigung animal vet near me 24 hours australian sheepdog puppies for sale near me …

In 1913, Albert Heim advocated to increase the population of the Sennenhund breeds, and the dog breeds were entered into … Step 2Back to animal species selection Price list.

In 1940, the American Water Spaniel was recognized by the American Kennel Club and was permitted to compete against other dogs in show rings.

In 1977, relatives of Boykin conferred with Dr.

In 1977, the Boykin Spaniel Society was formed by the Boykin family and began maintaining a studbook in 1979.

In 1985 this breed was named the official state dog of Wisconsin.

In 1985, it was made the state dog of Wisconsin; it’s the only dog breed to have originated there (and one of the few truly American breeds).

In 1985, the American water spaniel was named the official state dog of Wisconsin.

In 1990, fewer than 300 were registered with the American Kennel Club.

In 2006 the breed earned a place on the Kennel Club Import Register, officially becoming a recognised breed in the UK.

In 2007 the Boykin Spaniel Club And Breeders Association of America was recognized by the American Kennel Club as the parent club for the breed.

In 2010, the breed was ranked 143rd most popular breed in the United States, out of 167 breeds.

In 2011, for example, the American Water Spaniel was in 157th place out of registered dogs from among the 173 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club.

In 2011, it ranked 157th in registrations among the 173 breeds recognized by AKC, just behind the pulik – a herding breed best known for its corded coat that makes it look like a mop come to life – and just in front of the Glen of Imaal terrier and Polish lowland sheepdog.

In 2016, the American Water Spaniel ranked 156 on a list of 190 breeds.

In the 1930s, technological advancements in fishing nearly caused the extinction of Portuguese Water Dogs.

In the 1990s a group of fanciers formed the Boykin Spaniel Club And Breeders Association of America in order to achieve AKC recognition of the breed and to gain access to the AKC Spaniel Hunt Tests held throughout the nation.[12] In 2007 the Boykin Spaniel Club and Breeders Association of America (BSCBAA) was recognized by the AKC as the parent club for the breed.[13]

In the 1990s a group of fanciers formed the Boykin Spaniel Club And Breeders Association of America in order to achieve AKC recognition of the breed and to gain access to the AKC Spaniel Hunt Tests held throughout the nation.[12] In 2007 the Boykin Spaniel Club and Breeders Association of America (BSCBAA) was recognized by the AKC as the parent club for the breed.[13]