American Water Spaniel - Sporting

Exactly when and where, or from what the American Water Spaniel was developed was never recorded. His appearance strongly suggests a smaller version of the Irish Water Spaniel, and it is likely that he is derived from that breed or his earlier versions, the Northern, Southern and Tweed Water Spaniels. The curly-coated retriever and his forebear, the English water spaniel, may also have played a role. Some theories even credit the American Indians who lived in the Great Lakes regions as the creators of the breed. Whatever his origin, the American water spaniel first became established as a recognizable breed in the Midwestern parts of the United States, where he was unsurpassed as a hunting companion. This small dog with the waterproof coat and keen nose could hunt through rough thickets, spring game and retrieve all manner of game from land and water, often marking several fallen birds before retrieving them all unfailingly. Until he was recognized by the AKC in 1940, no one ever considered breeding these dogs for anything but hunting ability. Even after recognition, the breed's forte remained in the field, and he is a rarity in the show ring or even the home. Today the American water spaniel is among the least known of AKC recognized breeds, despite being one of only two sporting breeds developed in America. In fact, the American Water Spaniel is the state dog of Wisconsin.