American Water Spaniel (AWS), Breed, Price, Compatibility with Family (Oct 2023): The American Water Spaniel (AWS) is a breed of dog that originated in the United States.
It is a versatile and relatively rare breed known for its hunting abilities, especially in waterfowl hunting. Here are some key characteristics and information about the American Water Spaniel:
American Water Spaniel (AWS) Breed Info:
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile, medium-sized breed known for waterfowl hunting.
Originating in the U.S., it’s loyal, trainable, and excels in retrieving. Developed in the 19th century, it remains a rare but devoted family and hunting dog.
| Quality | Level |
|---|---|
| AFFECTIONATE WITH FAMILY | Moderate |
| GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN | Moderate |
| GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS | Moderate |
| SHEDDING LEVEL | Low |
| COAT GROOMING FREQUENCY | 1 to 2 times in a week |
| FRIENDLY TOWARD STRANGERS | Moderate |
| WATCHDOG/PROTECTIVE NATURE | Moderate |
| ADAPTABILITY LEVEL | Moderate |
| TRAINABILITY LEVEL | High |
| BARKING LEVEL | Moderate |
If you’re considering getting an American Water Spaniel as a pet, it’s important to do thorough research and ensure that their needs, including exercise and training, can be met in your household.
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Physical Appearance:
The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized, muscular breed with a wavy, water-resistant coat. They have a distinctive, rounded head, expressive brown eyes, and long ears. Their tail is often docked, and their coat comes in various shades of brown.
Size:
They are typically around 15 to 18 inches (38 to 46 cm) in height at the shoulder, and they usually weigh between 25 to 45 pounds (11 to 20 kg).
Coat:
The AWS has a double coat that is dense, waterproof, and somewhat curly or wavy. Their coat is designed to protect them while working in water and cold weather.
The coat can come in various shades of brown, liver, or chocolate, often with a small amount of white on the chest and toes.
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Ears:
They have long, pendant ears that hang close to their head and are covered in curls or waves, which help to keep water out of their ears when they swim.
Tail:
The tail of an American Water Spaniel is typically docked to a medium length. In countries where tail docking is prohibited, you may find AWS with natural tails.
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Eyes:
Their eyes are typically dark and expressive, giving them an alert and intelligent look.
Expression:
AWS dogs have a friendly and alert expression, which reflects their lively and intelligent nature.
Build:
They have a well-muscled and compact body, with a strong and slightly arched neck. Their chest is deep, and their legs are strong and straight, helping them move efficiently on land and in water.
Feet:
Their feet are webbed, which aids them in swimming and navigating through water.
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Dewclaws:
Some AWS may have double dewclaws on their hind legs, which can be a distinguishing feature of the breed.
Temperament and Personality:
American Water Spaniels dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are often described as good family dogs and are known to be loyal and protective. They are also known for their intelligence and adaptability.
Hunting Skills:
American Water Spaniels were originally bred for hunting in the Midwest, particularly in the region around the Great Lakes. They are skilled in retrieving games from the water, which is where they get their name.
They are known for their excellent swimming abilities and their enthusiasm for hunting. They are often used for hunting waterfowl, but they can also be effective in upland game hunting.
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Exercise Needs:
These dogs are active and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for swimming are beneficial for them. They enjoy being outdoors and participating in activities with their owners.
Health:
Like all breeds, American Water Spaniels are prone to certain health issues.
These may include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections due to their floppy ears. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary care can help mitigate some of these health concerns.
Lifespan:
The average lifespan of an American Water Spaniel is around 10 to 14 years, provided they receive proper care and attention.
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Popularity:
The American Water Spaniel is not one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, and it remains relatively rare.
However, for those who appreciate their hunting abilities and affectionate nature, they can be a great choice of breed.
Water spaniels Training & Care
Training and caring for water spaniels, such as the American Water Spaniel or Irish Water Spaniel, requires attention to their specific needs and characteristics.
These dogs are known for their love of water and hunting abilities. Here are some tips for training and caring for water spaniels:
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Socialization:
Start socializing your water spaniel puppy early to ensure they are well-adjusted and friendly around other dogs and people. Expose them to various environments and situations to build their confidence.
Basic obedience training:
Begin basic obedience training as soon as you bring your water spaniel home. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to reward good behavior. Consistency is key in training.
Water exposure:
Water spaniels have a natural affinity for water. Introduce them to water in a positive and controlled manner, such as shallow ponds or calm rivers. Supervise them until you’re sure of their swimming abilities.
Exercise:
These dogs are active and require regular exercise. Plan for daily walks, playtime, and mentally stimulating activities. Water spaniels particularly enjoy retrieving games in the water.
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Hunting training (if applicable):
If you plan to use your water spaniel for hunting, consider specialized training. They have a natural instinct for hunting waterfowl, but you should still train them to follow commands and retrieve game effectively.
Grooming:
Water spaniels have a unique curly or wavy coat that requires regular grooming. Brush their coat at least a few times a week to prevent mats and tangles. Professional grooming may be necessary every few months.
Nutrition:
Provide a balanced diet tailored to your water spaniel’s age, size, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Health care:
Keep up with regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative measures like flea and tick control. Water spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but regular veterinary care is important for their overall well-being.
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Mental stimulation:
Water spaniels are intelligent dogs and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games can help keep their minds active.
Love and attention:
Water spaniels thrive on human companionship and attention. Spend quality time with your dog, as they are known to be loyal and affectionate. Positive reinforcement training methods will strengthen your bond.
Safety around water:
While they love water, always be cautious around bodies of water to prevent accidents. Ensure they can swim safely and consider using a life vest if necessary.
American water spaniel Price
The price of an American Water Spaniel (AWS) can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s pedigree, the location, and whether the AWS is intended for pet or show purposes.
The average cost of an American Water Spaniel puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $800 to $2,500 or even higher for dogs with exceptional bloodlines or show potential.
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It’s important to note that the cost of acquiring a dog is just the beginning. Owning a dog also entails ongoing expenses for food, grooming, veterinary care, training, and other essentials.
Additionally, consider adoption as an option; sometimes, you can find American Water Spaniels or similar breeds in shelters or rescue organizations, which may have lower adoption fees than purchasing a puppy from a breeder.
American water spaniel Price in India
The price of an American Water Spaniel in India can vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The breeder’s reputation
- The puppy’s lineage
- The puppy’s age
- The puppy’s coat color
- The puppy’s sex
- The location of the breeder
On average, however, an American Water Spaniel puppy in India can cost anywhere from βΉ25,000 to βΉ50,000. It is important to note that this is just a rough estimate, and the actual price of your puppy may be higher or lower depending on the factors listed above.
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American water spaniel for hunting
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile hunting dog that can excel in both upland and waterfowl hunting. They are known for their intelligence, trainability, and eagerness to please.
AWSs are also relatively small and lightweight, making them ideal for hunters who hunt from small boats or who need a dog that can keep up on long hunts.
Here are some of the reasons why American Water Spaniels make great hunting dogs:
- They have a natural hunting instinct. AWSs are bred to hunt, and they love it. They have a keen sense of smell and are excellent at tracking and retrieving game.
- They are easy to train. AWSs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. With proper training, an AWS can learn to perform all of the basic hunting commands, as well as more advanced commands such as marking downed birds and retrieving from water.
- They are versatile. AWSs can be used to hunt a variety of game, including waterfowl, upland birds, and small game. They are also excellent swimmers, making them ideal for retrieving ducks and geese from water.
- They are durable and hardy. AWSs are built to withstand the rigors of hunting. They have a dense, water-resistant coat that protects them from the elements, and they are generally healthy dogs.
If you are looking for a versatile and reliable hunting dog, the American Water Spaniel is a great option.
Are water spaniels good family dogs?
Yes, water spaniels are generally good family dogs. They are known for being affectionate, playful, and intelligent. They are also relatively easy to train and are good with children.
However, it is important to note that all dogs are individuals, and there may be some water spaniels that are not well-suited for families with young children.
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Here are some of the pros and cons of having a water spaniel as a family dog:
Pros:
- Affectionate and loving
- Playful and energetic
- Intelligent and easy to train
- Good with children
- Relatively low-shedding
- Good watchdogs
Cons:
- Can be stubborn and independent
- May require a lot of exercise
- May be prone to barking
- Can be wary of strangers
Overall, water spaniels make great family dogs for active families. However, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized puppy.