Insights on American Water Spaniels: Facts and Essentials
The American Water Spaniel (AWS) is a remarkable dog breed known for its intelligence, trainability, and versatility. Originating from the United States, this breed has made a significant impact in the world of sports and hunting, excelling at various activities.
Since its official recognition as a spaniel by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2005, the AWS has been eligible to participate in spaniel-hunting tests. However, due to its retriever heritage, it is required to pass two "retrieving certification tests" to earn a hunting test title.
The history of the AWS can be traced back to the early 20th century, when numbers of the breed dwindled severely as hunting became less prevalent, and larger British breeds gained popularity across the Atlantic. It was a Wisconsinite named Dr JF Pfeifer who is credited with both saving and establishing the breed as we know it today.
Before it was officially recognised as the American water spaniel, the breed was known as the American brown spaniel. The first official AWS was named Curly Pfeifer, after its breeder, Dr FJ Pfeifer, who was the first to register the breed – with the United Kennel Club in 1920.
Although the breed has "spaniel" in its name, it has roots in both retrievers and spaniels. It is believed to have been developed from the Irish water spaniel and curly-coated retriever, but many experts also point to the English water spaniel and field spaniel as contributors.
AWSs are adept at retrieving downed waterfowl from lakes and rivers, but they are also expert flushers, springing upland game birds such as grouse and pheasant. They are wonderfully adaptable to a wide range of situations and environments, as long as they have plenty of exercise and playtime.
The AWS tends to cherish its humans, so they are typically protective and wary of strangers. They also have a fair old bark on them, so can give you peace of mind if you want a dog that makes themselves heard.
Despite their active and energetic nature, AWSs are not hypoallergenic, though their curly double coat needs grooming and does shed minimally. The breed is reported to live for an average of 10-14 years, although there are many examples of this breed living several years beyond this.
In conclusion, the American Water Spaniel is a unique and versatile breed that has made significant contributions to the world of hunting and sports. Its intelligence, trainability, and adaptability make it a favourite among dog enthusiasts and hunters alike.
