A Boykin Spaniel is a beautiful, smart dog that’s a crossbreed of several hunting dogs, including a Cocker and an American Water Spaniel.
Boykins are intelligent, social, and generally easy-going, says Annie-Mae Levy, a certified dog trainer at Woofz. They’re great hunting dogs or family pets and need regular exercise, training, and socialization.
Read on to learn more about Boykin Spaniels and if they’re the right dog for you. We’ll discuss their history, lifestyle, and health with insights from experts.
Key
- Low
- Medium
- High
- Origin: South Carolina, United States
- Size:
- Weight (Male): 30 to 40 pounds
- Weight (Female): 25 to 35 pounds
- Activity level:
- Barking/howling level:
- Good with dogs: yes
- Good with kids: yes
- Good with strangers: yes
- Good for first-time dog parents: yes
- Shedding:
- Hair type: Wavy double coat
- Grooming level:
- Training level:
- Drooling level:
Boykin Spaniel Appearance
Boykins usually have a long, wavy coat and floppy ears like other spaniels, including Cockers and Springers. However, their color and size make them unique.
“Full-grown Boykin Spaniels are medium-sized dogs that average between 25 and 40 pounds, with females on the smaller end of the range,” says Dr. Jennifer Sperry, a veterinarian and advisor at AKC Pet Insurance. They’re typically 14 to 18 inches tall.
Their signature brown coat varies from light waves to thick curls, depending on their genetics, explains Michael Barnes, head trainer and Boykin Spaniel breeder at Valley Way Kennels.
Boykin Spaniel Origin & History
Boykin Spaniels, originally from South Carolina, were bred for bird hunting in lakes and waterways, says Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a veterinarian and advisor with Figo Pet Insurance.
Legend has it that a South Carolina local discovered a Boykin Spaniel in the early 1900s and trained them as a hunting dog. In 2009, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Boykin Spaniel as an official breed. Today, Boykins are found across the U.S. and internationally
Known for their compact size, agility, and trainability, Boykin Spaniels are prized hunting dogs. Dr. Ostermeier adds that their affectionate nature also makes them excellent family pets.
Boykin Spaniel Pros
Boykin Spaniels are known for their friendly, adaptable nature and make excellent companions for active families. Their intelligence, agility, and strong hunting instincts also make them standout working dogs. With the right care and training, they can thrive in a variety of environments. Dr. Ostermeier says Boykins are:
- Friendly with other dogs, cats, and children
- Good for active first-time pet parents
- Affectionate and cuddly
- Very active and love all kinds of exercise (hiking, swimming, camping, outdoor activities)
Boykin Spaniel Cons
Boykin Spaniels are energetic and loving dogs, but they’re not without challenges. Their high activity levels and need for attention can make them a handful for some pet parents. It’s important to understand these potential drawbacks before bringing one home. Dr. Ostermeier says Boykins:
- Can become anxious and destructive without enough exercise
- Prefer outdoor spaces, making apartment living challenging
- Need extra training and socialization due to high energy
- Require a dog sitter or walker if left alone too long
Boykin Spaniel Training
Dr. Ostermeier says Boykin Spaniels are highly trainable, thanks to their hunting dog heritage, and they thrive on pleasing their pet parents.
“As with most Spaniels, the Boykin puppy phase lasts until they’re two to three years old,” Levy says. “But even as they get older, they’ll still have a lot of energy.”
Training should start immediately and be part of their daily routine. As intelligent working dogs, Levy says Boykins need consistent mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Their excellent sense of smell makes scent work and hunting activities ideal. Agility, socialization, and obedience training are also great ways to channel their energy.
Boykin Spaniel Grooming
Boykin Spaniels are relatively low-maintenance but still require regular grooming. Barnes says Boykins shed year-round, though it’s usually less noticeable than larger breeds. Regular brushing at least a few times a week helps control shedding.
Baths should be monthly or more often if they’re especially active to keep them clean and fresh.
Barnes advises against using clippers on their coat, as the hair provides insulation. However, trimming around the ears, anus, and genitalia is essential to prevent moisture and bacteria buildup that can lead to infections. Mats around joints should also be removed promptly to avoid discomfort.
Boykin Spaniel Health
Dr. Sperry says Boykin Spaniels are generally healthy but might have the following health problems:
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Early cataracts
- Exercise-induced collapse
Similar to other dogs, she says Boykins can have allergies, stomach problems, and infections.
Experienced breeders screen for these conditions and select parent pairs to minimize risks, making it crucial to choose a reputable breeder unless adopting.
Dr. Sperry also suggests these tips to help reduce the risk of illness:
- Feed them a high-quality diet
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Commit to daily mental and physical exercise
- Provide early and adequate training and socialization
- Check-in with your vet at least once or more if needed
- Follow vaccinations and parasite prevention appropriate for the area you live in
- Maintain regular grooming for good skin, ear, and nail health
Getting a Boykin Spaniel
Ready to bring home a Boykin Spaniel?
You can adopt or buy one, each with its pros and cons. Rescue dogs are often more affordable and may come with some training, while dogs from reputable breeders typically provide more details on health, personality, and training.
You’ll likely get a puppy if you buy a Boykin Spaniel from a breeder. Rescue Spaniels can be any age. Choosing between a puppy and an older dog depends on your lifestyle. Boykin puppies and senior dogs typically require more in-depth care, while adolescent and young adult dogs can be easier to care for.
Before getting a Boykin Spaniel, we recommend:
- Researching breeders or rescues: Get recommendations, look at reviews, consider their years of experience, and ask the breeder or rescue questions.
- Learning how to properly care for a dog: Understand how to train, groom, exercise, and feed a dog. Do additional research if you’re a first-time pet parent.
- Taking your time finding the right dog for your family: While you may be excited to bring your new pet home, many people regret rushing this process. Go slow to ensure you find a Boykin you click with.
- Getting pet insurance: Dogs can be expensive, but pet insurance can help cover medical expenses, such as vet visits and medications.
How much does a Boykin Spaniel cost?
“A Boykin Spaniel can cost between $2,000 and $10,000,” Barnes says. He explains that a puppy will cost less (around $5000), but an experienced older dog will cost more. The exact cost of a Boykin depends on their pedigree, genetics, and level of training.
You’ll also want to consider the costs of being a dog parent, including upfront and routine expenses like food, grooming, and veterinary care.
Alternative Dog Breeds to Consider
Boykin Spaniels are great pets for active people and families. If a Boykin doesn’t seem right for you but you’d like a similar dog, these breeds may be a good fit:
- English Springer Spaniel: A slightly larger dog that shares many personality traits and lifestyle needs with a Boykin
- Labrador Retriever: A larger, water-loving working dog available in various colors
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: A smaller dog with similar hair and ears, friendly with lower energy than the Boykin
Resources
- Barnes, M. (2024). Personal interview.
- Levy, A. (2024). Personal interview.
- Ostermeier, N. (2024). Personal interview.
- Sperry, J. (2024). Personal interview.
