The Boykin Spaniel was first spotted beside a church in South Carolina and later it was found that the dog has excellent hunting capabilities. It was later crossed with other breeds to evolve into its current form.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Companion, hunting
Average Life Span: 14-16 years
Color: Brown and liver
Coat: Long, wavy and curly
Average Height: 15-18 inches
Average Weight: 25-40 pounds
Group: Gun dog
History and Domestication
The Boykin spaniel has rather interesting origins which can be traced back to 20th century. Alexander White of Spartanburg spotted a brown spaniel wondering around the church after service. He took it home and discovered that the dog had unique hunting abilities. He then gave this dog to his hunting partner L. Whitaker Boykin and was named ‘Dumpy’. Later it was crossed with American water Spaniels, Pointers, Springer Spaniel and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and evolved into what we know as the Boykin Spaniel today. This is a popular dog in southern United States especially among bird hunters. The South Carolina state of USA has named it the official dog of the state.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Boykin Spaniel has a head like other Spaniels. It has a docked tail. The coat is waterproof, wavy and curly. However, a smooth coat is also acceptable. It comes in brown or liver colors. This dog is larger than Cocker Spaniel and its ears are set high which are covered with wavy and long hair. The dog has considerably lesser hair on rest of the body.
Care, Grooming and Health
The breed requires brushing at regular intervals to avoid coat matting.
This is a working breed and it requires daily exercise like long brisk walks and play sessions. Make the dog heel beside you or after you because the leader must walk first. The dog has is willing and has a high drive. This is a very energetic dig and does well with a ‘job’ at hand as it needs to burn off calories and exercise its nimble mind. They can get destructive if they get bored but very often they find ways to entertain themselves.
The major health issues with Boykin Spaniel are eye problems, hip dyslexia and some skin and heart problems.
Living Conditions
If adequately exercised, this dog will do okay in an apartment. A small yard may be required.
Temperament
The trademark amber/yellow eyes of the Boykin Spaniel seem to look expectantly at you as if he is asking “What should I do next?” This is a loyal, obedient and pleasant companion. These breed is a fantastic swimmer but beware of ear infections and dry them as soon as they get wet. According to most owners each dog has a unique personality and its enthusiastic personality is seldom matched by other dogs. The enthusiasm and fine nose of this dog makes it a very versatile hunter. These dogs need leaders who can display natural leadership over them and who are consistent in training them.
