ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISAmerican water spaniel
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog american water spaniel!
Here, you will find all the useful information about american water spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The American Water Spaniel is a recent breed, appearing at the beginning of the 20th century, founded and selected in the state of Wisconsin located in the heart of the American Midwest. The origin of its ancestors is not formally known, but it is likely to be a cross between Irish Water Spaniels and Curly-Coated Retrievers.
They have great hunting skills, especially in the water, but are also at ease on land and are particularly good at hunting small game such as ducks, quail, pheasants and rabbits. One of the architects of this new breed was F. J. Pfeiffer, who worked rigorously on the various points of his standard for many years, enabling it to be registered by the AKC for the first time in 1940.
It was finally registered on 2 November 1979 by the International Cynological Federation and the last update of the official standard in force was published on 14 February 1995.
The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, dynamic and obedient dog, a reliable working companion with great courage. Solidly built, his gait is light despite his apparent heaviness, his body is supple and balanced.
Slightly longer than he is tall, his body is rectangular, powerful and agile, his shoulders and chest are amply developed, all supported by strong bones and robust lower legs. The topline is straight, sloping discreetly to the loins, with a tail of medium length and slightly curved upwards.
The coat is wavy, although the number of waves or curls may vary from one area of the body to another, combined with a dense, thick undercoat, providing effective protection against the weather. The coat colours permitted by the breed standard are liver, brown or dark chocolate, always solid colours, a little white on toes and chest is tolerated.
The American Water Spaniel is a breed of hunting dogs with a gentle and endearing character, with a lively nature, a companion of remarkable intelligence as well as a stubborn worker of great boldness.
Always close to his owners, he aspires to please his masters and all members of his family. A faithful and devoted partner, he will accompany you everywhere with the greatest benevolence, showing himself to be protective if he senses the slightest danger.
Balanced and active, they are well suited to indoor life, but will need to expend their boundless energy every day to feel at ease in their paws. They are close to all members of the household, especially children, with whom they like to share playtime and fun activities. The American Spaniel is a sociable companion and an efficient hunting partner, the ideal pet for a life in the wild surrounded by your family.
Adult: The American Water Spaniel will weigh approximately 13-20 kg (28.5-44 lbs) for males and 11-18 kg (24-39.5 lbs) for females, with a maximum withers height of approximately 38-45 cm (15-17.5").
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Origins
The American Water Spaniel finds its origins in the United States, where it was developed to hunt and retrieve waterfowl in marshes and rivers. It is a crossbreed between several European water dog breeds brought to America by settlers. Its adaptability to different environments and its ability to work in tough conditions make it an ideal companion for hunters and water activities enthusiasts.
History
The history of the American Water Spaniel dates back to the 19th century, when European settlers began crossing different water dog breeds to create a versatile and robust dog. This breed was particularly valued for its ability to hunt in the marshes of the American Midwest. The American Water Spaniel has gained popularity over the decades, thanks to its hunting skills and affectionate nature, becoming a beloved companion for families and hunters.
Standard
The standard for the American Water Spaniel is defined by its medium size, compact musculature, and dense, wavy coat, adapted to aquatic environments. Its eyes are expressive, often brown or amber in color, and its ears are long and pendant. Its tail is moderately long, often carried in a whip-like fashion when in action. Its gait is agile and energetic, reflecting its endurance and liveliness.
Physical characteristics
The American Water Spaniel is distinguished by its dense and wavy coat, often dark brown or chocolate in color. It measures between 38 and 46 cm at the withers and weighs between 11 and 20 kg. Its body is well proportioned, with a deep chest and muscular limbs that give it great endurance. Its drooping ears and lively gaze testify to its intelligence and vigilance. Its tail is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip, often in motion.
Character
The American Water Spaniel is known for its cheerful, affectionate, and energetic personality. It is a loyal companion, always eager to please its master. Intelligent and easy to train, it adapts well to family life and is protective of children. Its sociable and friendly nature makes it an excellent companion dog, while still retaining its hunting instinct. It requires mental and physical stimulation to remain balanced and happy.
Life expectancy
The American Water Spaniel's life expectancy is generally between 12 and 15 years. This longevity is the result of careful care, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise. Owners should ensure to monitor their dog's health by scheduling regular veterinary visits and providing a safe and healthy environment. Special attention to disease and injury prevention helps to extend their active and healthy life.
Exercise and activity needs
The American Water Spaniel has high exercise and activity needs. It is an energetic dog that enjoys long walks, fetch games, and water activities. Daily physical activity is essential for its physical and mental well-being. It excels in canine sports such as agility, tracking, and obedience. Without enough exercise, it can become destructive or develop undesirable behaviors due to boredom.
Recommended diet
The American water dog's diet must be balanced and tailored to his energy needs. A high-quality diet, rich in animal proteins, is recommended to maintain his muscle mass and energy levels. Meals should be divided into two daily portions to avoid digestive problems. Treats can be used as rewards during training, but should be given in moderation to prevent obesity. Adequate hydration is also essential.
Training and obedience
The American Water Spaniel is intelligent and receptive to training, which makes it easy to train. It responds well to positive methods based on rewards and consistency. Training should start at a young age to establish good habits and reinforce desirable behaviors. Early socialization is crucial to build confidence and prevent anxious behaviors. Training sessions should be short and varied to maintain its interest and enthusiasm.
Behavior with children
The American Water Spaniel is generally excellent with children, thanks to its patient and affectionate temperament. It is protective and loves to play, making it an ideal companion for families. However, it is essential to monitor interactions between the dog and young children to ensure everyone's safety. Children need to learn to respect the dog and understand its signals. Proper socialization and training will strengthen these good relationships.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The American Water Spaniel is often sociable with other pets, especially dogs and cats, especially if socialized from a young age. Its friendly and tolerant nature makes it easy to live with other animals. However, due to its hunting instinct, it may be less reliable with small animals such as rodents or birds. A gradual and supervised introduction is recommended to establish a harmonious coexistence with other animals in the home.
Grooming needs
The dense and wavy coat of the American Water Spaniel requires regular maintenance to prevent knots and tangles. Weekly brushing is recommended to maintain the health and cleanliness of its coat. Baths should be given as needed, using a dog shampoo suitable for preserving the natural hydration of its skin. Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections. Nails should be trimmed regularly to avoid them becoming too long.
Health
The American Water Spaniel is generally healthy, but may be predisposed to certain genetic conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as some eye diseases. Regular veterinary exams and careful monitoring of its physical condition can help prevent or detect these problems early. A balanced diet, adequate exercise, and good hygiene all contribute to maintaining the overall health of this energetic and resilient dog.
Average price
The average price of an American Water Spaniel puppy varies between 800 and 1500 euros, depending on the quality of the bloodlines, the breeder's reputation, and the geographical location. This cost often includes the first vaccinations, veterinary visits, and a health guarantee. Buyers must be willing to invest in a puppy from a responsible breeder to ensure a healthy and well-socialized dog. Puppies from champion bloodlines may be more expensive.
Expenses
Annual expenses for an American Water Spaniel can range from 800 to 1200 euros ($850 to $1300). These costs include high-quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming products, toys, and health insurance. Additional expenses may occur for training, pet boarding during holidays, and sports activities. Proper budget planning is essential to ensure the well-being of this active and healthy dog.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for your American Water Spaniel is a special moment. For example, "Buddy" evokes a faithful companion, while "Nala" brings an exotic and elegant touch. "Max" is a classic that reflects strength and loyalty, while "Bella" embodies beauty. "Shadow" might suit a discreet and protective dog. "Rex" and "Luna" are also popular, respectively for their royal and celestial connotations. Finally, "Duke", "Milo", and "Ruby" add a touch of nobility, affection, and liveliness.
Legislation and regulation
In general, the American Water Spaniel is not subject to specific restrictive legislation. This breed is not classified as dangerous in most jurisdictions, making it easier for adoption and ownership. However, it is essential to inquire about local regulations, as some regions may have specific requirements regarding licenses, vaccinations, and insurance. A thorough knowledge of local laws ensures a harmonious cohabitation with your companion.
Official recognition
The American Water Spaniel is recognized by several canine organizations, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the United States, its country of origin. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) also recognizes this breed, under the United Kennel Club (UKC) in the United States. The official club of the breed is the American Water Spaniel Club, which works to promote, breed, and preserve the breed standards, ensuring compliance with international guidelines.
Pedigrees
The pedigrees of American Water Dogs are available from breeders and recognized canine organizations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). These documents certify the dog's lineage and guarantee its purebred status. Pedigrees include information about the dog's ancestors, their health, and their competition titles, allowing future owners to ensure the quality and genetic health of their puppy.
Destination and usage
Historically, the American Water Spaniel has been bred for waterfowl hunting, excelling in retrieving ducks and other waterfowl. Today, it is also valued as a companion dog, thanks to its affectionate nature and liveliness. It successfully participates in various dog sports, such as agility, tracking, and obedience. Its versatility and adaptability make it an excellent dog for active families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a loyal and energetic companion.
Prohibitions
The American Water Spaniel is generally not subject to specific bans in countries or regions of the world. However, it is always prudent to check local regulations before acquiring a dog of this breed, as some jurisdictions may have restrictions on the importation or possession of dogs, especially for health or species protection reasons. Consulting local authorities or a veterinarian can provide accurate and up-to-date information.
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