American Water Spaniels: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

The AKC Standard says that the American Water Spaniel has "great energy and eagerness for the hunt."

This solidly built breed is happy, hardy, and adaptable but also energetic and in need of a good amount of daily exercise. Swimming and fetching are especially appreciated. Too much confinement or isolation can lead to hyperactivity and destructive behavior.

The temperament of the American Water Spaniel is about midway between that of an ingratiating English Springer Spaniel and a self-reliant Irish Water Spaniel.

American Water Spaniels who have been extensively socialized are friendly. But many individuals make alert watchdogs and may not always welcome strangers into their home.

Most are fine with other family pets, though some can be dominant with strange dogs.

The American Water Spaniel is a bit of a challenge to train. He has a stubborn streak and is not as eager to please as some other spaniels. At the same time he is highly sensitive and may respond defensively if he thinks he is being treated unfairly (whether he actually is or not!) Consistent leadership is a must.

If you want a dog who...

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

• You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult American Water Spaniels have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
• If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up.
• Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your American Water Spaniel to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.

More traits and characteristics of the American Water Spaniel

If I was considering an American Water Spaniel, I would be most concerned about...

1. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. American Water Spaniels were developed to be hunting dogs. They must have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing. You should be an active owner who enjoys long daily walks, hiking, swimming, or visits to the dog park.
2. Potential separation anxiety. More than most other breeds, American Water Spaniels need a great deal of companionship. They do not like being left alone for more than a few hours. They tend to express their unhappiness through destructive chewing and barking. If you work all day, this is not the breed for you.
3. Providing enough socialization. Standoffish by nature, American Water Spaniels need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become shyness or suspiciousness, which are difficult to live with.
4. Mind of their own. American Water Spaniels can be stubborn and manipulative. You must show them that you mean what you say. To teach your spaniel to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. My American Water Spaniel Training Page discusses the program you need.
5. Potential barking. American Water Spaniels are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them before this behavior becomes a bad habit.
6. Finding one. American Water Spaniels are rare. You will almost certainly need to go on a waiting list, whether you want a puppy from a breeder or an adult dog from a rescue group.