The American Water Spaniel (AWS) is an exceptionally skilled retriever, often ranked alongside the Labrador and Golden Retriever in ability, though its energy is typically less exuberant than that of the English Springer Spaniel.
This adaptable breed can navigate any terrain and possesses high endurance, particularly in water work, despite not being the fastest swimmer. Beyond field work, the AWS excels in various dog sports like agility and flyball; in fact, an AWS won a flyball championship as early as 1993, showcasing the breed’s athleticism and drive.
In the home, the AWS loves to be the centre of attention and can be quite vocal. It often exhibits the trait of being a “one-family dog,” meaning it tends to form its strongest, most significant bond with a single person within the household. While the breed was historically “pack bred” and lived in groups, contemporary breeders prioritize an even temperament, ensuring the AWS is equally well-suited for both demanding hunting tasks and devoted family life.