Boykin Spaniels 101

Mar 24th 2010

Name: Boykin Spaniel

Personality: According to the Boykin Spaniel Society, "Boykins have often been described as 'the dog that doesn't rock the boat.'" It's a hunter both on land and in water, originally bred in South Carolina for its compact frame, which was desirable when a boykin needed to fit amongst his hunting humans on tiny water vessels.

As a hunter, the boykin is loyal, dutiful and a sharp thinker. In fact, the Dog Breed Info Center states, "They stare expectantly into your eyes... as if the dog is asking, 'What do you want me to do next?'" The Boykin Spaniel Society adds, "Like many of the sporting breeds, boykin spaniels make the transition from hunting companion to family pet easily. Boykin spaniels are true dual-purpose hunting dogs."

Grooming: To clip or not to clip? That is the question when it comes to maintaining a Boykin's long-haired, shaggy, almost feathery coat. Some owners clip down to the nub, to the point where the dog resembles a short-haired breed. Either way, the Boykin Spaniel Society recommends brushing once a week, but bathing no more than once a month. Since boykins have long, floppy ears, those should also be gently cleaned on a regular basis to prevent ear infections.

Common Health Issues: Dog Breed Info Center lists very few health problems common to the breed, just hip dysplasia and cataracts, though they note that "a few localized lines have heart and skin problems."