American Water Spaniel puppies for sale in Nova Scotia

Breed history

The American Water Spaniel is a rare and distinctly American breed developed in the Midwestern United States, particularly along the river valleys of Wisconsin and Minnesota, in the 19th century. Bred to be an all-in-one hunting companion, it was designed to retrieve game from both land and water, especially in the marshy environments common to the region. Hunters needed a versatile, compact, and durable dog that could fit in small boats, handle cold water, and retrieve birds all day long. To create this breed, a mix of Irish Water Spaniels, Curly-Coated Retrievers, and other early spaniel types were used. Officially recognized by the AKC in 1940, the American Water Spaniel remains the state dog of Wisconsin and is cherished for its hunting ability, intelligence, and loyal companionship, though it remains a relatively rare breed today.