American Water Spaniel
Sporting Medium
A medium-sized sporting breed from United States, the American Water Spaniel ranks #131 with the AKC. Their tightly curled liver-colored coat is uniquely water-resistant, and their moderate size makes them the only American-bred sporting dog designed for small-boat hunting.
Quick Stats
Characteristics
| Family Friendly | |
| Energy Level | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Good with Kids | |
| Good with Dogs | |
| Apartment Friendly | |
| Grooming Needs | |
| Barking Level | |
| Exercise Needs | |
| Intelligence |
About the American Water Spaniel
Bred as a versatile hunting dog for the Great Lakes region, springing game, retrieving waterfowl, and working from small boats in Wisconsin's rivers and marshes.. Ranked #131 by the AKC in 2026, their enduring popularity reflects the breed's adaptability and charm.
A medium-sized dog measuring 15–18 inches at the shoulder and weighing 25–45 pounds, the American Water Spaniel carries a presence that matches its personality. Wisconsin's state dog and a uniquely American breed. The AWS is a versatile, all-around sporting dog with a charming personality and a curly coat built for cold water.
Energetic, eager, and sometimes possessive. More independent and assertive than many spaniels. Can be territorial and protective of family and possessions..
Lifespan Overview
The American Water Spaniel typically lives 10–14 years. Learn more about American Water Spaniel lifespan →
Price Overview
Expect to pay $800–$1500 from a reputable breeder. See full price breakdown →
Weight & Growth
Adult American Water Spaniels weigh 25–45 lbs. View growth chart →
Temperament
With trainability at 4/5 and energy at 4/5, the American Water Spaniel Energetic, eager, and sometimes possessive. More independent and assertive than many spaniels. Can be territorial and protective of family and possessions.. Full temperament guide →
History
Dr. Fred Pfeifer of New London, Wisconsin, is credited with saving and promoting the breed in the early 1900s. Became Wisconsin's state dog in 1985. AKC recognized in 1940.. Bred as a versatile hunting dog for the Great Lakes region, springing game, retrieving waterfowl, and working from small boats in Wisconsin's rivers and marshes..
The breed gained AKC recognition and currently sits at #131 in popularity. Extremely rare, with fewer than 3,000 dogs registered. Primarily a hunting companion and family pet in the upper Midwest. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining the breed..
Common Health Issues
| Condition | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Moderate | Moderate |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Moderate | Severe |
| Cardiac Conditions | Moderate | Moderate |
| Follicular Dysplasia | Moderate | Mild |
| Epilepsy | Moderate | Moderate |
Similar Breeds
Is the American Water Spaniel Right for You?
Choosing the right dog breed is one of the most important decisions a future owner can make. The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized breed belonging to the Sporting group, which shapes much of its daily behavior and needs. Here is an honest assessment based on key traits to help you decide if this breed fits your lifestyle.
Energy and exercise: The American Water Spaniel has high energy levels and requires substantial daily activity - at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise including walks, runs, or active play sessions. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle or work very long hours, this breed may become destructive without adequate physical outlets.
Living space: With an apartment friendliness rating of 2/5, the American Water Spaniel is not well-suited for small living spaces. This breed does best in a home with a securely fenced yard and ample room to move. Apartment living may lead to behavioral problems unless the owner is extremely committed to daily outdoor exercise.
Children and family: Scoring 4/5 with children, the American Water Spaniel is an excellent family companion. They tend to be patient, gentle, and tolerant of the unpredictable behavior of young children. Supervision is always recommended, but this breed naturally gravitates toward being protective and affectionate with kids.
Grooming commitment: Grooming needs are moderate at 3/5. The American Water Spaniel benefits from brushing 2–3 times per week and occasional professional grooming. Shedding is manageable with regular maintenance, and grooming costs average $47–88/month.
Ownership Cost Summary
Before bringing a American Water Spaniel home, it is critical to understand the full financial commitment over their 10–14 year lifespan. The initial purchase price of $800–$1500 is only the beginning.
The first year is the most expensive, totaling approximately $3,969. This includes the purchase price, initial veterinary visits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, supplies (crate, bed, bowls, leash), and early training classes. Many owners underestimate this initial outlay and find themselves financially stressed within the first few months.
Ongoing monthly costs average $157, broken down as follows: food ($52–81/mo), grooming ($47–88/mo), insurance ($30–71/mo), with annual costs for veterinary care ($465–834/yr) and supplies ($230–548/yr). As a medium breed, the American Water Spaniel falls in the middle range for food costs, medication, and equipment sizes.
Over a full 10–14 year lifespan, total ownership costs typically reach $15,000–$30,000+ depending on health, not including emergency veterinary care which can add $2,000–$10,000 over the dog's lifetime. Pet insurance at $30–71/month is strongly recommended to manage unexpected health expenses.
Hidden costs often overlooked: Many prospective American Water Spaniel owners fail to budget for training classes ($150–$500 for basic obedience), boarding or pet sitting during vacations ($30–$75/night), dog-proofing the home ($100–$300), replacement of chewed items during puppyhood, and potential property damage. Additionally, renters may face pet deposits ($200–$500) and monthly pet rent ($25–$75). Factor these real-world costs into your decision to ensure the American Water Spaniel fits your financial situation comfortably without requiring sacrifices in the quality of care you can provide.
Breed Traits Explained
The American Water Spaniel belongs to the Sporting group, which historically means these dogs were bred for assisting hunters in finding and retrieving game. Sporting breeds are typically active, alert, and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They tend to be eager to please, which makes training enjoyable for both dog and owner.
With a family friendliness score of 4/5, intelligence at 4/5, and shedding rated 2/5, the American Water Spaniel presents a specific profile that works best for owners who understand and appreciate these characteristics. Their exercise needs (4/5) and barking tendency (3/5) should factor heavily into your decision, especially if you live in close proximity to neighbors or have limited outdoor space.
Intelligence and engagement: With intelligence rated 4/5, the American Water Spaniel is a quick learner that thrives on mental challenges. This high intelligence means they need puzzle toys, training sessions, and varied activities to prevent boredom. An under-stimulated American Water Spaniel may develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or escape attempts. The upside is that they pick up new commands quickly and excel in activities like obedience, agility, or nosework.
Shedding and home cleanliness: The American Water Spaniel's low shedding (2/5) makes them easier to maintain in a clean home. Regular brushing still helps remove dead coat and promote skin health.
American Water Spaniel Quick Decision Guide
Making an informed decision about the American Water Spaniel requires weighing all factors together. Here is a consolidated assessment to help you decide confidently whether this breed matches your situation.
You will love the American Water Spaniel if: You enjoy an active lifestyle with daily outdoor activities, have children or plan to start a family, have adequate space with outdoor access, and prefer lower-maintenance coat care. The American Water Spaniel's sporting heritage brings specific qualities that dedicated owners find deeply rewarding.
Consider a different breed if: You cannot commit to 60+ minutes of daily exercise, , or if your living situation cannot accommodate a medium breed comfortably. Being honest about these factors prevents rehoming situations that are stressful for both dog and owner.
Next steps: If the American Water Spaniel seems like a good match, explore our detailed sub-pages on lifespan, cost, temperament, and health for deeper information. Connect with American Water Spaniel owners through breed clubs and online communities to hear firsthand experiences. If possible, spend time with American Water Spaniels before committing - attending dog shows, visiting breed-specific meetups, or fostering through a rescue organization. Use our Puppy Weight Calculator and Dog Age Calculator for practical planning, and review our expert guides for training, nutrition, and health care advice tailored to all breeds and life stages.