Next up on the list of state-ratified dogs is Wisconsin’s very own American Water Spaniel. The American Water Spaniel was ratified as Wisconsin’s state dog in 1985.
The AWS is considered a rare breed of American dog. A great hunting dog and a dog that can handle life in the city well, the American Water Spaniel is definitely a dog for the ages.
Origins
Originating from the banks of Wisconsin’s Fox and Wolf river, the AWS started off as a group of mutts that were later bred to be amazing hunting and waterfowl retrieval dogs.
As will all “true” American breeds, the AWS is a mutt that is thought to be descended from English and Irish spaniels.
Description
The American Water Spaniel is typically a small-average sized dog. Standing a maximum 18 inches tall and weighing up to 40 pounds, the American Water Spaniel is a great dog that has been adapted to city life because of its temperament.
The fur of the AWS can either be smooth or curly, depending on its breeding, but the dog is almost always brown. The AWS is also a loving, caring family dog that is great with kids and easy to train.