American water spaniel, breed of medium-sized sporting dog developed in the American Midwest. It stands about 17 in. high at the shoulder and weighs between 30 and 40 lb .

Its dense and closely curled coat ranges in color from solid liver to dark chocolate. A sturdy, muscular dog, the American water spaniel is a versatile scent hunter, flushing, or springing, game birds rather than pointing them.

It is a strong swimmer and retrieves both on land and water. It is also used for hunting rabbits and other small animals.

The legs and tail have feathering. Similar in appearance to the Irish water spaniel, but smaller and lacking the topknot and rattail of that breed.

The American Water Spaniel was developed as a hunting dog in the market hunting days of America's history. Hunters needed a dog that could function on land as well as in the marsh and that could easily fit into a canoe or skiff without taking up much room.

For more information visit the American Water Spaniel Club