A medium-sized dog breed, the Boykin Spaniel comes from the United States of America and is a hunting dog, being the state dog of South Carolina. Its nicknames include Boykin, Swamp Poodle and Little Brown Dog (LBD).
The general appearance of a Boykin bears a slight resemblance to the Cocker Spaniel breed, a bit larger in size, but with smaller ears and less hair. Having a friendly looking image, the Boykin is a lively, very active dog, and its color can be liver or chocolate. The colors of the fur vary, but will always be in shades of brown.
The coat is dense and waterproof, with longer hair on some parts of the body (ears, legs, and chest) and it can be wavy, curly or straight, depending on each dog. Since the coats properties are somehow special, the Boykin Spaniel requires brushing every few days and washing when necessary, in order to maintain the fur beautiful and healthy.
Weighing around 11-18 kilograms and having a usual height of 38-46 centimeters, the Boykin has a life span of 14 to 16 years and can give birth to 5-7 puppies at once. Health problems may include hip dysplasia, eye issues and, sometimes, even heart or skin problems; because of its long ears, this dog may develop ear infections.
Since it belongs to a hunting family, the Boykin Spaniel has a strong body structure that needs daily exercise that requires it to make a lot of physical effort; thus, activities like long walks, running with its owner or alongside the bicycle and playing various games will be a good way to keep the dog in shape.
Though it can adapt to apartment conditions, it needs adequate outdoor activities; a house with a small yard is perfect for its general needs. It is a very energetic dog, so, as mentioned, it requires a certain amount of exercise, or else it may become bored and even destroy things in order to keep itself entertained.
The dogs of this breed like water and are very good swimmers; but, after getting wet, owners should be careful to dry them in order to prevent ear infections.
The Boykin Spaniel is a very intelligent and loyal dog. With an obedient and pleasant personality, it can be easily trained as long as it is always reminded who the “pack leader” is (since it has a strong leader instinct).
The Boykin is friendly, affectionate and good with children. A distinctive characteristic of this breed is related to the way it looks at people, especially if they are its owners it will stare into someones eyes with its big yellow/amber eyes, giving the impression that it is asking what to do, waiting for the next command.
Despite its elegant appearance, with a long, special coat, the Boykin Spaniel is actually a very active dog, full of energy and affection and it will never disappoint its family, it will protect them, it will be loyal and always patient and caring with the children.
