The American Water Spaniel is an active muscular dog, medium in size with a marcel to curly coat. Emphasis is placed on proper size and a symmetrical relationship of parts, texture of coat and color. Size, Proportion, Substance 15 to 18 inches for either sex. Males weighing 30-45 lbs. Females weighing 25-40 lbs.
Females tend to be slightly smaller than the males.
There is no preference for size within the given range of either sex providing correct proportion, good substance and balance is maintained. Proportion is slightly longer than tall, not too square or compact. However, exact proportion is not as important as the dog being well balanced and sound, capable of performing the breed's intended function. Substance, a solidly built and well muscled dog full of strength and quality. The breed has as much substance and bone as necessary to carry the muscular structure but not so much as to appear clumsy.