Boykin Spaniel dogs originated in the state of South Carolina and are a medium sized dog that is full of energy and lots of love. These dogs have floppy ears and a coat that is a shade of brown and can be flat or curly. They actually have what is referred to as a double coat. This simply means they have a shorter undercoat and a longer outer coat. The layering of the coats makes for a waterproofing effect and allows the dogs to perform well, no matter the climate. The males of these breeds are generally 15.5-17 inches long and weigh in at 30-40 pounds, while the females are 14-16.5 inches long and have an average weight of 25-30 pounds. As far as maintenance, they do shed moderately, especially in the spring months, and need to be brushed on a weekly basis, to keep the hair from matting and to remove any dirt. Baths arent necessary on a daily basis but from time to time, they will need a bath, to ensure they do not emit any odors. When it comes to their diet, Boykin Spaniels eat around 2-2.5 cups of food per day, depending on their age, and need fresh, clean water, as we humans do. Due to their stamina and energy levels, these dogs need an adequate amount of exercise each day. It is wise to make sure you have an outdoor area for your dog to run around in or access to an area nearby so that they can get the exercise they need and wont become bored. They are normally very well behaved dogs but if sheltered for too long, may began to act out so lots of activity is recommended.
First bred in South Carolina in the early 1900s and known as the states dog, Boykin Spaniels were mainly used in hunting for their endurance and their ability to flush out birds. As time went on, hunters realized that the dogs could not only flush out game but they could also retrieve the game as well. Their retrieval capabalities vary depending on their training but they are known to bring game and sit in on the ground near the hunter or will place it in the hunters hand. With a great sense of smell, these breeds of dogs take to the scents of game easily and are not known to do alot of barking and scare off the prey. Boykin Spaniels are a favorite amongst hunters when hunting in hot weather, due to their high tolerance to the weather and their energy levels. With their great social skills and their ability to be trained with ease, these dogs are a go-to for hunters, when it comes to hunting ducks, doves, quails, and wild turkeys. Along with upland game, Boykin Spaniels can also hunt land animals like rabbits and squirrels. They are known to be very smart dogs who are always eager to please and when trained properly, work well along side hunters. Their compact size makes them ideal to be used when hunting from boats, as well. Their lightweight built keeps them from rocking the boat and it is easy to pick up the dog and the game that they have in their mouth, at the same time. Furthermore, these dogs are strong swimmers and can retrieve not only on land but in water as well.
In addition to these dogs being ideal for upland game when hunting, they also make great pets for families. They arent aggressive dogs by nature and they tend to get along with not only humans but other dogs as well. Due to their friendly nature, Boykin Spaniels are great around kids and also make great camping buddies. They love to run around outside and be active, which plays a major part in them being great to take on a camping trip. They need and love to active and running around in the wilderness is a great way for them to achieve that, all while spending time with their human family.
Boykin Spaniels do have a life expectancy of around 10-15 years. They can give fun years of companionship and many years of hunting upland game. Though they are compact dogs, they do have alot of heart and give their all, in everything they do.
