American Water Spaniel

Originally from the United States, the American Water Spaniel is a Wisconsin breed that was established in Wisconsin since mid 19th century.

Unfortunately, documentation is lacking as to his true origins.

This dog was created to serve hunters in swamps, rivers and lakes. Thanks to his medium size, he was small enough not to knock over canoes and skiffs when used and could hunt on land as well as in swamps.

Although his origins remain mysterious, some theories say that the first specimens arrived in American territory on the Mayflower (a 17th century merchant ship), while others claim that they were present in America long before the 17th century.

However, documentation and photographs prove that he already existed in 1870 but under the name "American Brown Spaniel" or "Épagneul marron américain".

Two theories explain the origin of the American Water Spaniel. The first version says that he is the result of a cross between the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Field Spaniel and Curly-coated Retriever.

It is unlikely that this is the case as the Field Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel have only been distinct since 1880.

The other probability put forward is that he is a cross between the Curly-coated Retriever, English Water Spaniel, Chesapeake Bay Retriever and Irish Water Dog.

The American Water Spaniel was officially recognized in 1940 by the American Kennel Club. He is still trained to work on land and in marshes and to retrieve game from canoes or light boats.