The American Water Spaniel is one of a few dog breeds developed entirely in the United States, created in the Great Lakes region as a versatile all-purpose hunting dog for waterfowl and upland birds. Their tightly curled or wavy, dense, water-resistant double coat provides excellent protection in cold water and requires regular professional grooming to prevent the curls from matting close to the skin.
Coat Type
Tightly Curled or Wavy, Dense, Water-Resistant Double Coat
Groom Every
Every 6-8 weeks
Styles Available
3 cuts

Cuts & Styles
The curls maintained at their natural length with trimming only to neaten the feet, ear edges, and sanitary area. Preserves the breed's functional water-resistant coat.
The coat is trimmed to a practical shorter length to reduce drying time after water retrieves and minimize debris collection during upland hunting. Ear feathering trimmed significantly.
The coat is shortened uniformly to a manageable length, reducing the curl-maintenance commitment for pet owners while retaining the breed's characteristic appearance.
Expert Advice
Recommended Tools
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
BrushThe gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
$60 - $75
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Mars Coat King Undercoat Rake
BrushThe ultimate tool for double-coated breeds. Strips dead undercoat without damaging the guard hairs.
$40 - $60
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Deep Dives
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
How often to bathe and which products to use.
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
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