American Water Spaniel dog breed image gallery
Medium breed Regular energy Curly coat Sporting Group

American Water Spaniel

Eager, Happy, Charming

American Water Spaniels are muscular midsize gundogs, not flashy in looks or performance, and recognizable by a luscious brown coat that is either tightly curled or wavy. Bred to work the icy waters and marshy banks of the Great Lakes region, these spaniels are ideally outfitted…

⚖️ 25–45 lbs 📏 15–18" 🎂 10–14 years

Traits

American Water Spaniel Characteristics

Energy

60%

Shedding

20%

Trainability

100%

Grooming

60%

Friendliness

80%

Coat Type

Curly coat 2-3 Times a Week Brushing

Owner resources

Matched Resources for American Water Spaniel Owners

Contextual partner picks from the PupWiki affiliate pipeline. These are matched by breed size, energy, training needs, lifestyle, and ownership intent.

American Water Spaniel food & nutrition tools
ChefPaw Dog Food Maker
Chef Paw (US) · Appliances

ChefPaw Dog Food Maker

Revolutionary countertop pet food maker, simplifying the process of crafting fresh and highly-nutrit…

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

American Water Spaniel training & walking gear
🐾
JugBow · Training

JugBow No-Pull Training Harness

Dual-clip training harness with front and back D-rings. Reflective stitching, padded chest plate, an…

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

For American Water Spaniel owners
The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas
Crown and Paw · Gifts

The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas

Premium 8" x 10" custom pet canvas. Turn your pet into a legendary military veteran.

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Affiliate disclosure: PupWiki may earn a commission from qualifying partner links, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing can change.

Care basics

American Water Spaniel Care Tips

Benefits from 30-60 minutes daily exercise — walks, play sessions, or swimming.

Low shedding — regular brushing prevents tangles; minimal shedding management.

Brush 2-3× weekly to maintain coat condition and reduce shedding around the home.

Highly trainable — excels with positive reinforcement; start obedience classes early.

Owner fit

Who the American Water Spaniel Suits

  • Best suited to owners with some dog experience — difficulty rated 6/10.

  • Urban-friendly: adapts well to apartment or townhouse living when daily exercise is consistent.

  • A adaptable temperament can make this breed a reliable companion for the right household.

  • Working heritage means structured activity matters — under-stimulation can lead to problem behaviors.

Before you choose

Make an Informed American Water Spaniel Decision

Related guides

All American Water Spaniel Guides

American Water Spaniel Cost Calculator

Puppy price, annual costs, food estimate, and lifetime ownership planning.

Classification

FCI Classification

FCI Group Group 8 — Retrievers, Flushing Dogs and Water Dogs
Section Waterhonden
Status Recognized

Editorial guides