American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is described by the AKC as charming, eager, happy, a member of the Sporting Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 15-18 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 30-45 pounds (male), 25-40 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Charming / Eager / Happy [1] |
| AKC group | Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 176 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
American Water Spaniels are outdoorsy athletes who love hunting and swimming, so they need ample exercise. Without sufficient activity, they can become barky and destructive. At a minimum, vigorous play sessions with their owner or a companion dog in a park or a large backyard are needed every day. [1]
Grooming
The American Water Spaniel has a dense, waterproof coat that can be either tightly curled or wavy. The breed was bred to work in the icy waters of the Great Lakes region, and its insulating, double-layer coat makes that possible. Weekly grooming is required, but it is a fairly simple process. [1]
Health issues to budget for
As with all breeds, the majority of American Water Spaniels will live long and healthy lives when given proper care and regular veterinarian visits. A responsible breeder will test breeding stock for health concerns such as hip dysplasia, eye disorders, cardiac abnormalities and degenerative myelopathy. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the American Water Spaniel in 1940. [1]
- It ranked No. 176 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 157 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “AWS.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
Common questions
How long do American Water Spaniels live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-14 years.
How big does a American Water Spaniel get?
AKC breed information lists height 15-18 inches and weight 30-45 pounds (male), 25-40 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a American Water Spaniel?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the American Water Spaniel, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.