Page 229 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

GUNDOG S 229

AMERICAN WATER SPANIEL

THIS DOG IS EAGER TO PLEASE AND EASY TO CARE FOR AKC

Height range Originally bred as an all-around hunting and water dog in the Great Broad head
15–18 in (38–45 cm) Lakes region of the United States, the American Water Spaniel’s moderate
Weight range size and lean build allowed it to work from boats, as well as on shore.
26–46 lb (12–21 kg)
The breed is still used to flush and retrieve waterfowl but also makes
Life span 10–12 years an easygoing companion for an active family. Its dense, curly coat
Origin USA is inherited from ancestors that include the Irish Water Spaniel
(opposite) and the Curly-Coated Retriever (see p.259). Some
dogs have a less tightly curled coat, called the Marcel coat.

Other colors
Ears covered
with curly hair
Chocolate
May have a few white hairs on
chest and toes.

Light brown
eyes

Adult and puppy
Tight, liver curls,
oily to touch

Smooth
hair on face
Moderate
feathering
along tail

Moderately
feathered legs

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