American water spaniel, breed of medium-sized sporting dog developed in the American Midwest. It stands about 17 in. (43.2 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs between 30 and 40 lb (13.6-18.1 kg). 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. See dog.