About the American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel is one of those breeds that earns devoted fans the moment people actually meet one, which is part of what makes their rarity so puzzling. Developed in Wisconsin's lake country during the 1800s, these dogs were purpose-built for cold water, dense marsh grass, and long days in a hunting blind. Webbed feet, a water-resistant curly coat, and the stamina to keep working when other dogs have quit made them invaluable to Midwest hunters who needed one dog that could do it all. They are smart, enthusiastic, and deeply bonded to their people, though that independence means training takes patience and consistency. Wisconsin claimed them as the state dog in 1985, a fitting honor for a breed that nearly disappeared before dedicated breeders brought them back. Owners of American Water Spaniels tend to be serious about the breed in the best way, fiercely proud of a dog most people have never heard of. This shop celebrates that loyalty and the remarkable little water dog behind it.

Personality: Happy, eager, charming, stubborn, aloof with strangers

Physical traits: Compact athletic build, medium-length coat, dark eyes, webbed paws, muscular frame