AKC Dog Breeds: Boykin Spaniel

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Miscellaneous Class
Height:
14-18 inches   Weight: 25-40 pounds  Color: liver or brown

The Boykin Spaniel was developed in the United States as an all-around hunting dog, with a neat compact body. The Boykin Spaniel is medium in size, with emphasis placed on his hunting abilities, characterized by flushing and retrieving, with moderate speed and agility. A relatively modern breed, the Boykin Spaniel breed is highly regarded for their hunting abilities of water fowl. Originating in the Southern United States, the Boykin Spaniel is designated as the official dog of South Carolina. Just after the turn of the 20th century, Alexander White of Spartanburg, South Carolina saw a small brown spaniel type dog wondering around after church service. The dog appeared to be a stray and he decided to take the dog home with him. He discovered that the dog had great hunting abilities. This stray had a wonderful bird sense.  Alexander gave the dog to his hunting partner L. Whitaker Boykin. The dog was a male and he was given the name "Dumpy". The Boykin Spaniel breed has evolved from this one dog, with crosses to American Water Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, Pointers and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. The Boykin Spaniel is a versatile hunter, working as a retriever and upland hunter, flushing birds into flight. Pointing is not in character with the Boykin’s hunting style. Their stamina in hot weather and eagerness make them good for dove hunts, but also for pheasant and other upland game. They can be used in driving deer or in tracking wounded game. Their small size makes them easy to carry in a canoe or other small boat, and they are described as "the dog that doesn't rock the boat.

General Appearance
The Boykin Spaniel has a Spaniel type head. The tail is docked. The waterproof coat is rather wavy or curly, but a smooth coat is acceptable (hunters care more about the dogs hunting abilities than its coat type).  The Boykin is larger than the Cocker Spaniel, with a smaller higher set ears that are covered with long wavy hair. He has considerably less hair and a straighter muzzle.

Temperament
The Boykin Spaniel is a friendly, social dog that does best in an family environment with lots of outdoor activity. It is easily trained and eager to work. It is stable around children and other dogs. They can sometimes be described as energetic with great endurance that lasts throughout the day. They are extremely adaptable to different environments as long as they are giving ample opportunity for social interaction and plenty of time to burn off excess energy. Their trademark yellow/amber eyes that they stare expectantly into your eyes are often commented upon as if the dog is asking “What do you want me to do next?” The Boykin Spaniel is a fantastic swimmer. They enjoy water and swimming; however they are prone to Spaniel ear infections and should be dried well after getting wet. Most owners report that each of these dogs has a unique personally and an enthusiastic field ability seldom matched by other dogs. Boykin Spaniel's excel in structured agility and obedience classes. The Boykin Spaniel possesses a softer temperament than other Spaniel breeds so does not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. They do quite well with motivational training. They require fairness and consistency. The Boykin Spaniel is amicable, loyal, devoted, and docile. The Boykin Spaniel is an enthusiastic hunter, pleasant companion, and willing worker. They thrive on human contact and get along exceptionally well with children and other pets.

Grooming

This breed requires weekly brushing of the coat to minimize loose hair. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary. The ears must be checked and cleaned on a regular and consistent basis to prevent infection.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The Boykin Spaniel breed is prone to such health issues as eye problems, hip dysplasia, skin and heart problems. Boykin Spaniels have a 37% chance of being born with hip dysplasia, according to 2006 statistics. Puppies can be checked by a local veterinarian for this problem at the age of 2 years old by an Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) x-ray or as young as 4 months old by a PennHIP exam. All breeding stock should receive either a passing PennHIP evaluation or an OFA certification prior to being bred. Life expectancy is 14-16 years

Activity Level
The Boykin Spaniel is not recommended for apartment living. They require daily exercise and mental stimulation or they will become bored and destructive. This breed is exceedingly driven and energetic and do best in a rural setting. They thrive on hunting, swimming, and family activity. The Boykin Spaniel is a working dog and needs a lot of daily exercise, including a long, brisk daily walk.




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