American Water Spaniel

Appearance

Weighing 25 to 45 pounds: females usually 25 to 40; males 30 to 45 lbs (11-20 kg) and standing 15 to 18 inches (36-46 cm) in height. They have a curly to marcell coat that is dense and well-suited to resist cold water and inc.lement weather. The coat's color is liver, brown, or chocolate (some with white spots which grow with age). The American Water Spaniel should have a rocker-shaped tail and be somewhat compact in size with well-proportioned features that give the dog an air of balance. Its head should be broad and spaniel-like with no topknot(Eyes are caramel,chocolate,or dark yellow).

Temperament

An American Water Spaniel original, this flushing spaniel also doubles as a competent retriever. Like many of the spaniel breeds, it hunts both feather and fur (and even fish!) with equal enthusiasm. Friendly, intelligent, and often willing to please. This dog is also very protective of its owner. In old age the dog may become temperamental. One of their favorite foods is very strange - bananas. This dog is very soft mouthed but can be trained to play tug of war. It will be very attached to the alpha of the house and think of children as kennel mates until they grow up. Unspayed females will have a mind of their own when in heat (even when very well trained). This little brown dog also has many of the common spaniel characteristics.
The American Water Spaniel has a mind of its own at times and reaches peak performance with the owner that is dedicated to teaching the dog just what is expected of it. The breed takes well to training and especially excels at training that offers some variety rather than rote training drills. Harsh training techniques do not work for the majority of American Water Spaniel. In fact, such techniques often cause a dog to become shy or even bite out of fear. This is a breed for the trainer that is consistent and fair when dealing with the dog.
American Water Spaniels do not have to hunt to be happy. They make fine companion animals and, because of their size, they fit well in cramped quarters. However, the breed does need exercise and training to mature into that loving friend that people look for. To avoid possessiveness, excessive barking, and a willingness to take over the household, novice owners should attend a local obedience class and set aside daily play time for their companion.