American Water Spaniel

Dogs of this breed are playful and energetic, but at the same time, have a calm and balanced character. They are family favorites that are especially devoted to their owner. American Water Spaniels are very friendly and sociable. They require a lot of attention and do not tolerate loneliness.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The American Water Spaniel first appeared in the United States in the 19th century. Its ancestors were English and Irish Water Spaniels, Golden Retriever, and Poodle. Only a century later, in 1920, Dr. Pfeifer made the first announcement about creating a new breed.

Whit Boykin was actively involved in the selection and development of the American spaniel. That is why the breed is also called by his name – Boykin Spaniel. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the spaniel only in 1940. Ten years earlier, a club of breed lovers headed by J. Schofield appeared.

Appearance

The American Water Spaniel is a strong and muscular dog with a slightly extended body. The pet’s chest is broad and deep. The back is straight, with well-developed musculature. The neck is muscular and high up. The head is wide and well-proportioned. There is a pronounced transition from the forehead to the square muzzle of the dog. The nose lobe is brown or black. The eyes are small, brown. The ears are long, floppy, set above the eyes.

Limbs are not long, proportional. The tail is of medium length, slightly curved. The coat is thick, dense, and wavy. Color ranging from brown to chocolate.

Character

Dogs of this breed are playful and energetic, but at the same time, have a calm and balanced character. They are family favorites that are especially devoted to their owner. American Water Spaniels are very friendly and sociable. They require a lot of attention and do not tolerate loneliness.

Get along well with other animals. Their instinct to hunt can work on small animals and birds. Children are especially fond of it. To strangers dogs are indifferent or wary; it depends on the education.

Care

The American Water Spaniel adapts well to life in an apartment as long as there are daily long walks outdoors. A mobile dog needs at least 2-4 hours of outdoor exercise. Still, it will be better for the pet in the countryside, where it will walk freely on its own. It will also save you time.

A spaniel’s frizzy coat needs weekly combing. When molting, do this procedure more often. Bathe the pet only if necessary so as not to wash away the protective coating on the coat. Keep an eye on the condition of your pet’s floppy ears and have them cleaned on time.

Training

The American Water Spaniel is a brilliant and obedient dog that is a pleasure to train. The pet is industrious and picks up all commands on the fly. It’s not recommended to start training from an early age, but about two years old. Try to make the training not boring, monotonous work will tire the dog, and he will lose interest.

Engage him with fun games, praise him for obeying commands and give him treats. Never raise your voice or use excessive force toward your pet. Provide intensive training with plenty of physical activity.

Common Diseases

The American Water Spaniel is a tough and healthy dog that is not afraid of getting wet or hypothermia. However, the breed is prone to skin and ophthalmic diseases. The following ailments may occur:

• progressive retinal atrophy;
• cataract;
• allergies;
• epilepsy;
• diabetes mellitus;
• hypothyroidism.

It’s worth carefully monitoring the health of your dog’s eyes, cleaning them, and seeing a veterinarian on time. Also, pay attention to your dog’s diet to avoid food allergies.

Nutrition

The American Water Spaniel has an excellent appetite and does not date fruit about food. Nevertheless, it is necessary to approach the question of nutrition carefully not to overfeed the pet. Dogs can eat both ready-made dry food and natural food. Spaniels need a balanced diet based on lean meat such as beef.

It should also include dairy products, vegetables, and fish. To strengthen your pet’s body with vitamins and minerals, give him fruits and herbs. Vitamin supplements will also do the trick.