American Water Spaniel

 🐾 Express story  

The American Water Spaniel was developed in the United States in the 19th century, particularly in the state of Wisconsin, where it was used by hunters. Although its precise origins are not fully documented, it is known that a breeder named F. J. Pfeiffer is responsible for the first breeding of this breed. This dog is an excellent retriever and a loyal companion for hunting enthusiasts.  

 🐕 Portrait of the breed  

The American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized dog with a well-muscled and compact body, designed for speed and endurance. Its appearance is elegant yet sturdy, making it an excellent working dog and an ideal companion for outdoor activities, particularly hunting and water sports. This dog loves to expend energy and plays an exceptional role as a retriever in the water.  

 🔍 In short  

- Hypoallergenic: No  

- Weight: 13-20 kg (male), 11-18 kg (female)  

- Size: 38-46 cm 

- Life expectancy: 12-15 years  

- Need for physical activity: 1.5 to 2 hours per day  

 ❤️ Personnality & compatibility  

- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Protector: ⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Player: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Sporty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

Compatibility:  

- With the children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- With the animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- With the unknows: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- In apartment: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

> Good to know: Although he can live in an apartment as long as he is sufficiently stimulated, the American Water Spaniel much prefers a natural environment where he can expend energy, swim, and run. He is an excellent companion for active families and outdoor sports enthusiasts.  

 🛠 Hygiene & care  

- Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

> The grooming of the American Water Spaniel is not very demanding. Regular maintenance of its coat is recommended, but trimming the ears is optional. 

 💰 Budget  

- Purchase price: €500 to €1,000  

- Average annual cost: €450 to €950 (veterinarian, accessories, food)  

💡 Fun fact: The American Water Spaniel is often compared to the Chesapeake Bay Retriever due to its ability to retrieve game in the water. This dog is not only an excellent swimmer, but it also excels in physical activities requiring endurance and agility.