They are similar in appearance to the Irish Water Spaniel only smaller, with a sturdy, muscular body and a dense, waterproof coat of liver or dark chocolate brown that is either tightly curled or in the ‘marcel pattern’ where the fur falls in waves. Made for the water, these dogs also have webbed toes. American Water Spaniels are merry, bright dogs which thrive on activity. They have bags of energy and endless enthusiasm and are happiest when outdoors, with swimming and retrieving being their preferred pastimes. As such, they suit active owners and outdoorsy families, to whom they will be utterly devoted. These are affectionate dogs which get on well with children and other animals but are also good watchdogs which can be aloof with strangers. They crave the love of their family and hate being left alone for too long, and a bored or under-exercised American Water Spaniel will become barky and destructive. They are known to be a little stubborn with a mind of their own but given how smart they are, they can be easily trained.