June 18, 2025, 7:06 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Small, brown, and full of energy: The Boykin Spaniel captivates not only avid hunters but also active families with its intelligent, friendly, and eager-to-learn nature. As a true all-rounder, it excels in tasks both on land and in water—a skill literally at its paws thanks to its webbed feet.
The Boykin Spaniel is a medium-sized, versatile hunting and family dog from the southern United States. Originally bred to assist hunters in the swampy areas of South Carolina, it has established itself as a loving companion dog thanks to its friendly nature, high intelligence, and eagerness to learn. Its name traces back to Lemuel Whitaker Boykin, who transformed a stray into a powerful, compact, and water-resistant hunting breed through targeted crossbreeding. Today, the Boykin Spaniel impresses with its reliable nature, strong retrieving instinct, and a balanced mix of enthusiasm for work and family closeness–ideal for active owners who can match its energy level.
Origin
The origins of the Boykin Spaniel lie in the U.S. state of South Carolina at the beginning of the 20th century. When Alexander L. White adopted a small, stray spaniel type–called “Dumpy”–he recognized its hunting talent and handed it over to his hunting partner Lemuel Whitaker Boykin for training. Boykin began targeted crossbreeding, including with American Water Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, and Chesapeake Bay Retriever. The goal was a small, powerful hunting dog that could fit on small boats and excel at retrieving in water.
In 1977, the Boykin family founded the Boykin Spaniel Society, whose studbook was closed in 1980. Recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) followed in 2009. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) does not recognize the breed to this day, but the United Kennel Club (UKC) does. Since 1984, the Boykin Spaniel has been the official state dog of South Carolina.
Appearance & Coat
The Boykin Spaniel is compactly built and slightly rectangular in proportion. Males reach a shoulder height of 15 to 18 inches and weigh 29 to 40 pounds, while females are 14 to 16 inches tall and weigh 24 to 35 pounds. Characteristic features include the hanging, medium-length haired ears and well-developed webbing between the toes–a clear indication of its water-oriented origin.
Its coat is medium-length, smooth to slightly wavy, and consists of weather-resistant undercoat and softer topcoat. The color ranges from liver to dark chocolate brown. Small white markings on the chest are allowed. The hair is often denser on the chest, belly, ears, and legs.
Character & Temperament
The Boykin Spaniel is considered friendly, balanced, and exceptionally people-oriented. It is compatible with other dogs and children. If socialized early, it can also harmonize with cats. Its temperament is lively but not nervous. As a former hunting assistant, it possesses a strong sense of smell and high endurance. At the same time, it is affectionate and enjoys family togetherness. Its high intelligence and strong willingness to cooperate make it a pleasant companion both in everyday life and in the field.
Training
Thanks to its intelligence and willingness to work, the Boykin Spaniel is easy to train. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and mental stimulation are key to successful training. Early socialization–especially with other pets–is recommended. In dog school, it is attentive and eager to learn. Its “will-to-please” facilitates basic training, but its hunting instinct requires reliable leash handling and recall in new environments.
Proper Care & Maintenance
The Boykin Spaniel needs several hours of exercise daily–walks, jogging, or swimming sessions are ideal. Dog sports such as mantrailing or retrieving games further promote its mental stimulation. It is suitable for both country living and active owners in the city, provided there is enough space for exercise.
Its coat care is moderate: brushing once or twice a week is sufficient. Special attention should be paid to the ears, as hanging ears are prone to infections. Claws, teeth, and eyes should also be regularly checked and maintained.
Nutrition
The Boykin Spaniel requires a balanced, protein-rich diet. Whether dry food, wet food, or BARF–the quality and individual adjustment to weight, activity level, and age are crucial. The food ration should be regularly reviewed and adjusted to activity phases to avoid overweight or underweight. Treats as training rewards can be part of the daily ration. Water must always be available in sufficient quantity.
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
Despite overall robust health, there are breed-specific risks. These include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, degenerative myelopathy, Collie eye anomaly, and cataracts. Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)–a potentially life-threatening tolerance to exertion–can also occur. Regular veterinary check-ups and DNA tests for breeding dogs are essential to exclude genetically burdened lines.
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The Boykin Spaniel at a Glance
- Size: Males 15–18 inches, females 14–16 inches
- Weight: Males 29–40 pounds, females 24–35 pounds
- Coat: Medium-length, smooth to wavy, with undercoat
- Color: Shades of brown (liver to chocolate brown), chest spot allowed
- Character: Friendly, intelligent, eager to work, family-oriented
- Suitability: For active families, hunting enthusiasts, also for beginners with commitment
- Care effort: Moderate, ear care particularly important
- Special feature: Webbing between toes, ideal water dog