American Water Spaniel
Dog Breed

North America

The American relative of the Irish Water Spaniel is much smaller than its ancestor. The exact origin is unknown, but it is believed that Irish Water Spaniel was crossed with smaller American water dog breeds, which resulted in a dog that became particularly popular in the Southern States. In many zones it is known by the boykin Spaniel, name which corresponds to a population of South Carolina. In North America from two hundred to three hundred puppies are registered annually, but the American Water Spaniel is almost unknown outside its country of origin. It was not officially recognized as a breed until 1940.

In general, the breed is a copy in a smaller size of the Irish relative. However, its body is a bit longer and its skull is wider. Unlike its relative, the tail is covered by hair to the end. The hair has very tight curls.

The color is brown or a chocolate brown tone. Small white patches are accepted on the toes and on the chest. Its height at withers is 38 to 45 cm.