The American Water Spaniel got its start as a breed in Wisconsin, where it is now the state dog. In the early 19th century, hunters needed a breed of dog that could work and retrieve in water as well as on land. Over time, Several breeds of Water Spaniels and retrievers were interbred until the American Water Spaniel we know today was created. Eventually the breed began to decline in number after duck hunting in the area had diminished in favor of other means of getting food. It was in great part the work of Dr. Fred J. Pfeifer of New London Wisconsin who helped to save and preserve the breed by opening the Wolf River Kennels. He sold American Water Spaniels across the nation, helping to boost their popularity and their population. Thanks to his work, the breed was finally recognized by the AKC in 1920 and it was his own pet American Water Spaniel that was the first to be registered. Today their popularity continues to increase steadily among dog lovers and owners. Although the breed remains rare, in 2010 they were ranked as the 143rd most popular dog in America and anyone lucky enough to meet one of these dogs can see very quickly why they have become such a beloved pet.