Description:The American Water Spaniel was developed as an all-around hunting dog, bred to retrieve from skiff or canoes he was sometimes referred to as the "Skiff dog". He is an active muscular dog, medium in size with a curly coat which has oil coating that makes him water resistant. Primarily a hunting dog, the American Water Spaniel also makes a ideal family pet who will interact well with the entire family. He still thinks of himself as a water dog and hunting comes natural to him. He can be a barker.