American Water Spaniel retrieving a Ruffed Grouse

American Water Spaniel

COUNTRY: USA
WEIGHT: 25-45 pounds
HEIGHT: 15-18 inches

COAT: Thick, close curls or a marcelled effect
all over, except smooth on the head
COLOR: Solid liver or dark chocolate
GROUP: Gun Dog

American Water Spaniel

The origin of this All-American has not been recorded. Among his forebears were various forms of water dogs and spaniels which accompanied immigrants and settlers. Originally, the breed was called the Brown American Water Spaniel.

Development occurred in the late 1800s, basically along the great Mississippi flyway, where the waterfowl migrated north and south each year. He was used as a jump-shooting retriever especially in northern Minnesota, which is full of small lakes and pot holes (ponds). To get close enough to shoot the ducks feeding at these waterholes, the hunter and his dog had to crawl the last 50 or so yards. The hunter then "jumped" the ducks and shot, the brown spaniel retrieved them whether they fell on land or in water. His small size also made him an easy dog to tote in a skiff for hunting in open water or from a blind. The natural camouflage of his brown jacket matches the fall flora. He hunts small game as well.

As the 20th century progressed, British retrievers became more prevalent, and the little American brown spaniel, as he was known at the time, began to disappear. Doctor FJ. Pfeifer is credited with rescuing the breed from obscurity through the creation of a written standard and promotion with a breed club. His efforts paved the way for AKC recognition; in fact, his own dog, "Curley Pfeifer," was the first AKC registered American Water Spaniel.

Although very few specimens are seen at dog shows, they still enjoy moderate but steady favor among hunters and as family pets. The brown American Water Spaniel is a dog of the common folk, and has the great charm and easy trainability of the true spaniel. The parallel waves of "marcelled" hair are the desired coat type, although a tighter curl is also allowed. The ears are covered with profuse curls, as is the tail, and only his face is smooth haired. The body is a bit longer than tall. He is essentially unknown outside of North America.