History of the Boykin Spaniel Breed
As the story goes, it was right around 1900 that a man named Alexander White of Spartanburg, South Carolina noticed a small brown dog wandering around the church. Apparently, this spaniel-type dog was a stray, so Mr. White decided to take it home. After some time, Mr. White found that the little dog was a great hunter and showed a good bird sense. It was then that Mr. White gave the dog to his friend, named L. Whitaker Boykin. The dog was named "Dumpy," and it is believed that the breed of the Boykin Spaniel evolved from this one dog. History suggests that over time the breed was created by crossing with other breeds such as the American Water spaniel, the Springer spaniel, the Chesapeake Bay retriever, and pointers. The Boykin is used as a formidable retriever of water fowl and upland birds. This breed enjoys popularity as a bird hunting dog in the southern states of the U.S., and it is the official state dog of South Carolina, the same state from which the breed is said to have originated. While it has not yet been recognized by the AKC, the Boykin Spaniel has been a member of the AKC's Foundation Stock Service for several years. The breed may progress in the AKC as part of the miscellaneous group and then the sporting group in the next couple of years.
Size and Appearance of the Boykin Spaniel Breed
In typical fashion, the Boykin Spaniel has a spaniel-type head. This breed is larger than the Cocker spaniel, but it features smaller ears that are set higher on the head. The ears are covered with long, wavy hair, and the wavy coat is waterproof. The eyes are usually yellow or amber in color, and they offer an expression of anticipation and alertness. The Boykin does not have as thick of a coat and the muzzle is straighter than that of the Cocker. The tail of this breed is generally docked. The coat colors are liver or brown.
Boykin Spaniel Temperament
Calm, pleasant, and willing to please, the Boykin spaniel is a loyal companion for the family. It is an intelligent breed and a wonderful swimmer. This breed is usually very good with children and quite friendly with other dogs. The Boykin has a wonderful sense of smell and makes a great hunting companion. It will follow a scent and roam away if not kept on a leash or in a secured area when outside.
Boykin Spaniel Recommended Maintenance
The wavy coat of the Boykin spaniel should be brushed at least a couple of times a week in order to prevent matting of the long hair. This breed is known to shed mostly in the spring. Be sure to dry the ears after swimming to avoid ear infections. This breed is fine for those who live in an apartment as long as plenty of daily exercise is provided. It will do best if given some kind of work or activity to occupy its mind and body, otherwise it may become bored and destructive.
Boykin Spaniel Health
Life span: 14-16 years
Major concerns: Hip dysplasia and eyes.
Minor concerns: heart, skin
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: hips, eyes
