American Water Spaniel Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, UKC
About the American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a rare, versatile gun dog developed in the upper Midwest to hunt and retrieve waterfowl and upland game from small boats and marshy shorelines. Compact and muscular with a distinctive curly, oily, water-repellent coat, it is an energetic, intelligent worker that excels at both flushing and retrieving. Eager, biddable and affectionate, it bonds closely with its family and thrives on activity and companionship. It suits active owners or hunters who can provide daily exercise, mental engagement and inclusion in family life, rather than being left idle or isolated.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Versatile flushing and retrieving gun dog
- Intelligent and eager to please
- Water-repellent coat for cold hunts
- Affectionate and family-oriented
Things to consider
- Needs substantial exercise and mental work
- Can be sensitive or reserved without socialization
- Prone to separation anxiety if isolated
- Curly coat needs regular care and ear cleaning
History
The American Water Spaniel was developed in the 19th century around the Wolf and Fox river valleys of Wisconsin, likely from older water spaniel and curly-coated retriever types, to serve market and sport hunters needing a small boat dog. It is the state dog of Wisconsin. The AKC recognized it in 1940.
Temperament
Eager, intelligent and affectionate, the American Water Spaniel is a keen worker that is generally friendly and eager to please. It bonds strongly with family and can be reserved with strangers or somewhat sensitive. It is energetic and needs regular activity and mental stimulation to stay content.
Questions to ask a American Water Spaniel breeder
- Are the parents hip and eye evaluated?
- Is there any history of cardiac disease in the lines?
- What is the working and temperament background?
- How is the litter socialized to reduce sensitivity?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. This active spaniel can inherit hip joint malformation; screening is recommended.
Progressive retinal atrophy. An inherited degenerative eye disease that testing can identify.
Ear infections. Drop ears and frequent swimming make ear care important to prevent infection.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club — American Water Spaniel · United Kennel Club (UKC) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any American Water Spaniel litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a American Water Spaniel puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the American Water Spaniel listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a American Water Spaniel breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.