American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel has an unknown history but was most likely derived from the smaller Irish or English Water Spaniels and possible the Curly-coated Retriever dating back to the 18th century in the United States.  However, it was not until the mid-1800s that detailed records of the breed were kept. The American Water Spaniel developed in the midwestern region of the United States as a gun dog and hunting companion.  Her ability to flush out birds and retrieve fallen game in all terrains from marshes and river lands to uplands made her an excellent companion.  When larger retriever breeds became more popular, the smaller American Water Spaniel fell out of favor with hunters.  If not for Doctor F.J. Pfeifer of New London, Wisconsin who is credited with saving the American Water Spaniel, this breed would have faced extinction. Pfeifer bred and sold American Water Spaniels for the breed club, and helped develop the standard on how this dog should look.  Pfeifer’s efforts made breed recognition possible and the American Water Spaniel was first accepted by the United Kennel Club in 1920, the Field Stud Book in 1938, and gained American Kennel Club acceptance in 1940.  “Curly Pfeifer” was the first registered American Water Spaniel, and the state of Wisconsin designated the American Water Spaniel as its official state dog in 1986. Today, the American Water Spaniel remains a rare breed with less than 3,000 total individuals in existence.  However, the rarity has most likely prevented this breed from splitting once again into two classes; one used for show competitions and the other as a hunting companion.