Boykin Spaniel

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: United States

Group: Sporting, Gun dog

Height: 15 1/2-18 in., females 14-16 1/2 in.

Weight: males 45-60 lbs., females 35-50 lbs.

Life span: 14-15 years

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: yes

What is the origin of the Boykin Spaniel?

The Boykin Spaniel originated with a stray spaniel-looking dog in Spartanburg, South Carolina in the early 1900s. This dog is named after Whit Boykin and recognizing the dog’s natural hunting ability, he trained the stray and helped develop the breed. He named the first Boykin, Dumpy. The Boykin Spaniel is the State Dog of South Carolina since 1985.

What does the Boykin Spaniel look like?

The Boykin is a sturdy dog. Males are 15 1/2-18 in. tall and weight 30-40 lbs. Females are 14-16 1/2 in. and weight 25-35 lbs. Ears are pendant and covered with long wavy hair. Eye color is yellow/amber. The coat is double, medium length, flat to wavy. The undercoat is dense and soft. Colors are dark chocolate or live. Some have a small amount of white on chest and toes. The coat should be brushed at least weekly and clipped once a year if necessary.

What is the temperament of the Boykin Spaniel?

The Boykin Spaniel is very affectionate, especially with its family. Early training is made easy by the Boykin’s willingness to please. The Boykin is good with children and usually good with other pets. They ave very energitic and need an active family who loves the outdoors. They require vigorous daily outdooor exercise. Boykins love to swim so where possible, it is a good exercise. They can adapt to apartment living with enough physical stimulation.

What is the Boykin Spaniel used for?

The Boykin’s versatility shows itself in it’s many activities. Boykins can retrieve and are used as therapy dogs. They compete in obedience, conformation and rally. They are loyal, loving family companions.

Possible Health Issues

Hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, exercise induced collapse (EIC).