There has never been an official recording of the actual origins of the American Water Spaniel. The majority of experts are in agreement that a combination of English Water Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Tweed Water Spaniel, and the Curly Coated Retriever all play a part in this magnificent dog breed. Their appearance is the basis for this theory.

There is also the theory that American Indians theory is that the American Water Spaniel was created by American Indian tribes of the Great Lakes Region created them. No matter where they came from or how they came to be, they are extremely popular and are recognized as a dependable and steadfast hunting companion in the Midwestern section of the United States.

The American Water Spaniel is a petite dog with a waterproof coat and an astoundingly perceptive nose, which lets it hunt over arduous terrain and recover numerous game from land and water both. This is the well known reason they became the most wanted American hunting companion.

It wasn't until after the year 1940, at which time it was officially recognized by the AKC, that the American Water Spaniel became the target of breeding enthusiasts after the 1940‘s, when it was officially recognized by the AKC . No one thought of breeding them for anything other than hunting before this time.

As their name implies, American Water Spaniels unconditionally and unquestionably love the water. They are natural born swimmers, and natural born hunters. love water and have a natural ability to swim and hunt. They are extremely skilled retrievers and skilled hunters of many other numerous animals also.

Even though they are such excellent hunters, these Spaniels are great family pets and companions. They always try to please you and are endearing. Some may be very apprehensive while others may be prone to aggression against other strange dogs. They are known to have a really loud bark too.

American Water Spaniels must have a vigorous amount of exercise on a daily basis, as their main yearning is hunting and retrieving. Walking your Spaniel two or three times a day on their leash will be sufficient exercise, but letting them run freely in a safe place outside is the best exercise for them.

American Water Spaniels should stay inside your home during the night time, but they need entry to the outside during the day time. Since the American Water Spaniel has a long coat that is oily, they will need more grooming than other dog breeds. They must be brushed once a week, and you have to keep their topknot, ear, and feet hair clipped.

There is one major health matter that might come up , and this is called mitral valve disease. There are also some minor health matters that you should look out for, such as plutonic stenosis, PDA, and CHD. There are a few rare occurrences of PRA and patellar luxation in some Spaniels. The normal lifespan of the American Water Spaniel is between 10 and 13 years for healthy dogs.