Among the dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, only five were developed in the United States, and the American Water Spaniel originated in Wisconsin. Its development as a purebred was due largely to the efforts of Dr. F.J. Pfiefer of New London, Wisconsin, who perfected and standardized the breed and obtained official recognition by the United Kennel Club in 1920 and the American Kennel Club in 1940. The American Water Spaniel is known for its ability both to retrieve waterfowl and to act as a flushing dog in upland hunting. Smaller than other retrievers, it stands from 15 to 18 inches at the shoulder, weighs 25 to 40 pounds, and has a chocolate brown or liver-colored coat with an abundance of tight curls. In 1986, the American Water Spaniel was designated Wisconsin's official state dog.