Thwart Name for American Water Spaniel

The keel is the structural backbone of a vessel, providing stability and preventing it from being overturned by the wind or waves. This name is a powerful nautical metaphor for the American Water Spaniel's role. The dog's low-slung, muscular build and steady temperament act as a stabilizing force, both physically in a small boat and emotionally for its owner. 'Keel' suggests a foundational strength and a deep, unwavering balance that is essential for navigating challenging waters.

From the Old Norse 'kjölr'. The keel is the main structural member of a boat, running along the centerline of the bottom.

Ballast is heavy material placed in the hold of a ship to ensure its stability. This name speaks directly to the American Water Spaniel's 'substance' as described in the breed standard—a solidly built, muscular dog with enough weight to be sturdy but not clumsy.[11, 13] 'Ballast' is a metaphor for the dog's grounding presence in a small skiff, its compact weight providing a low center of gravity. It suggests a dog that is a source of physical and emotional stability for its hunting partner.

Of Low German or Scandinavian origin. Ballast is heavy material, such as gravel, sand, or iron, placed low in a vessel to improve its stability.

An oar is the tool that propels a small boat through the water. This name positions the dog as a vital part of the boat's motive force. While the hunter provides the primary propulsion, the dog's eager retrieve and powerful swimming are what complete the mission. 'Oar' symbolizes the rhythmic, collaborative effort of the hunt. It speaks to the dog's role as an active partner, not just a passenger, contributing its own power and energy to the shared goal.

From the Old English 'ār'. An oar is a pole with a flat blade at one end, used for rowing or steering a boat.

The rudder is the part of a boat used for steering. This name is a metaphor for the dog's intelligence and focus, which help to 'steer' the hunt towards success. The dog's keen nose and ability to read the environment provide crucial information, guiding the hunter's efforts. 'Rudder' suggests a creature that provides direction and control, a thinking partner whose instincts and observations are essential for navigating the complexities of the field and water.

From Old English 'rōther', meaning 'paddle, oar'. A rudder is a flat piece hinged vertically near the stern of a boat for steering.

To scull is to propel a boat with a single oar over the stern, a subtle and skillful technique used for quiet maneuvering. This name captures the nuanced and efficient way an AWS works. It’s not about crashing through the water with brute force, but about agile, purposeful movement. 'Scull' evokes the image of the dog's tapered, rudder-like tail in action and its powerful, webbed feet propelling it with quiet determination.[13, 17] It speaks of skill, control, and grace in the water.

Origin uncertain, but related to the skull of the head, possibly due to the shape of the oar's handle. To scull is to propel a boat by moving a single oar from side to side over the stern.

The gunwale (pronounced 'gunnel') is the upper edge of the side of a boat. It is the boundary between being in the boat and in the water. This name symbolizes the AWS's perfect poise on that edge. The dog is always ready to launch into the water, yet remains steady and controlled within the skiff until commanded. 'Gunwale' represents that moment of potential energy and discipline, the perfect balance between eagerness and obedience that defines a great water dog.

From 'gun' and 'wale' (a timber plank on a ship's side). Originally, it was the upper planking that supported the ship's guns.

A tiller is a lever used to turn a boat's rudder. It is the direct connection between the person steering and the boat's direction. This name is a metaphor for the AWS's responsiveness and the deep, intuitive connection it has with its owner. The dog acts as an extension of the owner's will, responding to subtle commands and cues to navigate the hunt. 'Tiller' symbolizes that sensitive, immediate link that makes for a seamless and effective partnership.

From Middle English 'tiller', meaning 'a weaver's beam' or 'handle'. It refers to the lever attached to a rudder for steering a boat.

A nexus is a connection or series of connections linking two or more things; a central or focal point. This name beautifully describes the role an American Water Spaniel often plays. It is the nexus between the hunter and the game, the land and the water, the past and the present. The name 'Nexus' celebrates the dog's role as a vital connector, the central point around which the entire world of the hunt revolves. It also speaks to the deep bond it forms, becoming the nexus of the family.

From the Latin 'nectere', 'to bind'. A nexus is a central link or connection.