If you thought only humans have a penchant for gastronomy, think again! Our furry friends, the American Water Spaniel, also have a super sophisticated palate and they do not hesitate to show it. While the breed might be less known than a Lab or a Beagle, they are no less delightful. These Spaniels have a keen sense of smell and taste, which makes meal times an exciting event of their day. Well, isn’t it the same for all of us?
To better understand these gourmet pals, delve into their breed characteristics and eating preferences, and find out what foods this particular breed enjoys.
Gifted with an excellent sense of smell and affinity for water, American Water Spaniels were bred for hunting and retrieving game in the mid-19th century in the Midwest United States, specifically Wisconsin. They are skillful swimmers and prefer dwelling in areas with a lot of water bodies around, such as lakes or marshes. And as you know, where there’s water, there are ducks and fish—traditional staple foods for our canine friends.
It’s only logical to start with these natural provisions as it formed the early diet of these dogs. There’s a wide consensus among the American Water Spaniel community that they love duck and fish. But, don’t think of serving them a straight Duck à l’Orange or Fish and Chips just yet; these canine gourmets prefer their meat cooked simply without a lot of spices, salt, or rich sauces that might upset their gentle digestion.
In addition to their penchant for duck and fish, American Water Spaniels are known to have an appetite for other types of protein sources such as chicken, turkey, beef, and lamb. While this might seem quite carnivorous, remember that in their natural habitat, these dogs were hunters. They are, after all, descendants of wolves – partial to a healthy dose of protein in their diet.
However, in the domestic setting, an exclusive meat diet isn’t the ideal situation. Modern veterinary science recommends providing a balanced meal for our furry friends. Just as you wouldn’t eat steak every day, your dog needs diversity too. Incorporating non-meat based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, and even quinoa, alongside a mix of well-cooked veggies like carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes offers an excellent balance for our four-legged companions.
Fruits make a wonderful snack for American Water Spaniels. They absolutely adore apples (be sure to remove the core and seeds), bananas, and blueberries. Homemade peanut butter biscuits are also a hit among them. They can have an occasional egg – a hard-boiled egg can make an exciting chase toy too! However, always remember to keep these as treats and not main meals; they still need meat proteins as the main component of their diets.
It might come as a surprise to you, but American Water Spaniels love their oils. They are fans of fish oil and coconut oil. Not only do they enjoy the taste, but these oils also provide essential fatty acids which promote a shiny and healthy coat and good skin health. We all love our Spaniels fluffy and shiny, don’t we?
Commercially manufactured foods can also be a good option if you choose conscientiously. High-quality dry food, free from additives and artificial colors, rich in protein and balanced with carbohydrates and fats, often work well. Some American Water Spaniels are partial to certain brands like Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Taste of The Wild, known for their natural and nutritionally balanced recipes.
But just as we humans have our food tastes and preferences, you may find that your American Water Spaniel enjoys a different selection of foods. The main thing to remember is that these dogs need a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, with a reasonable amount of carbohydrates and fat – similar to us humans.
The key to dining success with an American Water Spaniel is variety, quality, and moderation. Be sure to consult with your vet and watch your dog’s reactions to different foods. Allergies, intolerances, or simply dislikes can arise, so it’s essential to pay attention to the details. Whichever food you choose, it’s important it’s enjoyed by your Spaniel.
Remember, feeding our pets is not just about providing nutrition. It’s also a way to bond with them, teach them important skills, and make them feel loved and cared for.
So, as you set out on this culinary journey with your American Water Spaniel, remember the age-old adage- the way to a man’s (read: dog’s) heart is through his stomach!
Bon appétit to your Spaniel!
