Spaniel American Water (Imp) Breed Information and Buying advice

Overview

The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized gundog developed in the United States for retrieving and flushing game from both land and water. Known for its versatility, intelligence, and adaptability, this breed is equally capable in the field and as a companion.

Compact and athletic, the American Water Spaniel was bred to work in challenging environments, including cold water and dense cover. While affectionate and loyal, it remains an active working breed that requires regular exercise and engagement.

The breed is relatively rare in the UK, making responsible sourcing and breeder selection especially important.

Physical Appearance

The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, sturdy dog with a distinctive curly or wavy coat.

Key physical characteristics:

• Compact, muscular build

• Dense, water-resistant coat (curly or wavy)

• Medium-length drop ears

• Strong, well-balanced frame

• Moderately long tail

Coat colours are typically liver, brown, or dark chocolate, sometimes with small white markings.

How big do American Water Spaniel dogs get?

• Height:

  • Males: 38 - 46 cm

  • Females: 36 - 43 cm

• Weight:

  • 11 - 20 kg

Character Traits

The American Water Spaniel is intelligent, energetic, and loyal. It forms strong bonds with its family and enjoys being involved in daily activity.

They are best described as:

• Eager and responsive

• Loyal and affectionate

• Alert and energetic

Common personality traits

• Intelligence: High

• Affection: High

• Energy level: Moderate to high

• Loyalty: Strong

• Playfulness: High

• Aggression: Not aggressive

• Trainability: High

• Guarding ability: Moderate alertness

This breed responds well to consistent, positive training.

Ability to Socialise

Early socialisation supports balanced behaviour.

• With other dogs: Generally good

• With children: Good in active homes

• With cats and small pets: Prey drive present, supervision required

• With strangers: Reserved but not unfriendly

This breed may be slightly more cautious than some other spaniels.

Lifestyle Suitability

The American Water Spaniel suits active homes with time for engagement.

Best suited to:

• Active individuals or families

• Owners interested in outdoor activities

• Homes with access to a secure outdoor space

Lifestyle considerations

• First-time owners: Possible with commitment

• Apartment living: Not ideal

• Left alone: Poorly tolerated

• Noise sensitivity: Moderate

• Barking: Moderate

• Drooling: Low

• Heat tolerance: Moderate

• Cold tolerance: Good

This breed benefits from routine and structure.

General Health & Health Issues

Average lifespan: 12 - 15 years

Generally healthy, but possible concerns include:

• Hip dysplasia

• Eye conditions

• Ear infections

• Skin issues

Responsible breeding and regular care are important.

Exercise & Play Time

Minimum requirement: 1 - 1.5 hours daily

Ideal activities:

• Walks and runs

• Swimming

• Retrieving games

• Training sessions

This breed enjoys both physical and mental stimulation.

Nutrition & Feeding

A balanced, high-quality diet is recommended.

Feeding guidelines (approximate)

• Adults: 200 - 350 g per day

• Puppies require structured feeding

Adjust portions based on activity level.

Care & Maintenance

Grooming

Moderate grooming needs:

• Brush 2 - 3 times per week

• Occasional trimming

• Regular ear cleaning

• Routine dental care

Shedding is moderate.

Emotional Care

American Water Spaniels are people-oriented and require regular interaction. Without sufficient engagement, they may become restless or vocal.

History of the American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel was developed in the United States, particularly in the Midwest, as a versatile hunting dog capable of working from small boats and in dense marshland.

It is one of the few breeds native to the United States and remains relatively uncommon outside its country of origin.

Interesting Facts About American Water Spaniel Dogs

• One of the few breeds developed in the United States

• Bred for hunting from boats and wetlands

• Known for strong swimming ability

• Compact size made it ideal for transport

Getting an American Water Spaniel Puppy

You can read our general buying guide here, with the most important steps being visiting your American Water Spaniel puppy in person, seeing it with its mother, and assessing the breeder’s standards carefully.

More specifically, here is some American Water Spaniel puppy buying advice:

This breed requires regular exercise and engagement. Buyers looking for a low-energy or highly independent dog should reconsider.

Because the breed is rare in the UK:

• Confirm Kennel Club recognition/pedigree authenticity

• Verify health testing documentation

• Ensure the breeder understands the breed’s working background

• Avoid undocumented imports

• Ensure early socialisation has been prioritised

• Meet the mother and assess temperament

Avoid breeders who cannot provide clear pedigree or health information. A well-bred puppy should be confident, alert, and responsive. Responsible breeding and realistic expectations are essential.

Average Costs

Owning an American Water Spaniel involves ongoing financial commitment.

Typical purchase price:
£1,200 - £2,500

Monthly food cost:
£40 - £60

Insurance:
£35 - £60 per month

Annual routine veterinary care (approximate):
£300 - £600

Import costs may increase the purchase price.

Other Reading and Responsible Ownership

For further guidance:

• The Kennel Club (UK): https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk

• Dogs Trust: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk

• Blue Cross: https://www.bluecross.org.uk

While this page focuses on responsibly buying a puppy, some owners may also explore recognised rehoming routes.