Boykin spaniel | Facts & Information

Colors: black, white, brown and other colors

Health: generally healthy, without major hereditary disorders

Other names: Boykin Spaniel, chocolate dog, Boykin, Swamp Poodle, LBD (Little Brown Dog)

Origin

This American breed is the emblem of the state of South Carolina. He is a skilled hunter who loves to work. The goal of this dog is to do his job as well as possible and to please his master.

With its well-developed smell, the Boykin can pick up a trail from miles away. Like any spaniel, he loves water and enjoys swimming parties to the fullest. He is also an exemplary companion.

The breed is relatively new, appeared in the early twentieth century. The Legend of her training has in the foreground a stray dog. Alexander White was returning from the church when a brown spaniel-like dog, extremely docile, came in his way.

He took the dog home for company. Meanwhile he noticed that the new member of the family has a very good smell and an extraordinary hunting instinct, especially for birds.

He gave it to his hunting partner, Whitaker Boykin, who trained the dog to feed wild turkeys as well as water hunting. Later, the dog and its offspring were crossed with specimens of the breeds: Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, American Water Spaniel and Pointer. The breed has become an appreciated follow dog, but also of intake, both dry and from water.

There is no need to say who gave the name to the breed. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Association only in 2009. At the moment, the Boykin is one of the most famous breeds of spaniels in the USA. In Europe it is very rare.

Feeding Boykin Spaniel

Boykin is a very affectionate special puppy. How he wags his tail every time he sees you happy and you can give him a little attention, attention that he needs especially since he can not take care of himself.

If we talk about food and attention we automatically think about teeth, the dog needs periodic brushing. Fortunately, you don't have to brush your teeth as often as a person, but every year or twice a year, you need at least a checkup.

An alternative to brushing are various bars that are found in specialty stores that dogs eat with love due to various flavors. They are hard, partially or totally eliminate tartar.

When it comes to food, it's good to know that Boykin prefers wet rather than dry food. This is if you prefer to offer him food from shops, grains, canned food, etc.

Of course, the food offered to him must contain at least the minimum necessary and sufficient protein and nutrients that he needs. It is recommended not to give him bones and chocolate. Chocolate and similar products are poison for the dog. So pay attention to food !

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Appearance Boykin Spaniel

Boykin shows the classic look of a spaniel. It is slightly more massive than an English Cocker; it measures 38 to 46 cm at the withers and weighs between 11 and 18 kg. The fur can be straight, wavy or curly, affirming the multitude of breeds that were the basis for the creation of the Boykin. Hair length is average.

The fur is waterproof. The large, drooping ears are covered in long, curly hair. Accepted colors are Brown (of different shades) and chocolate. White spots, even on the chest, are discouraged.

This dog sheds abundantly in spring. In the rest it does not pose big problems of fur care. Brushing 2 times a month is enough. After swimming, be sure to thoroughly clean and dry your ears. Moisture accumulated in large ears can give serious infections at this level.

Behavior Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel is an extremely sociable dog with both people and other animals. It is an ideal companion dog, even for families with children. Because it is very friendly, don't expect it to be too good an alarm or guard dog.

He'd rather play with intruders than scare them. Dogs are made to work and please their owner. Intelligent and obedient, they can be trained very easily. The hunting instincts and the aportor instincts are well developed, being complemented by the very fine smell.

Walk the dog on a leash, as if it catches a trail, it may want to discover where it leads and stop listening to you.

It is a docile and calm dog. He loves water and adventure. It is very versatile.

Dressage Boykin Spaniel

Boykin Spaniel is a wonderful pet and an outstanding Hunter both on the ground and in the water. Boykin dog training consists of socializing with people and other dogs, entering the water, chasing birds, etc.

Communication is very important and in order for this to be possible, a listening training is also needed. This type of training lasts about a month on average, during which the dogs are taught basic commands.

Besides training and highlighting the dog's qualities, it is good for the animal to know a series of common commands for its exit in society(crowds, subway, markets, noisy areas like concerts, areas with dogs, etc.).

It is a docile and affectionate dog and will do its best to please you so training should not be a problem.

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Features Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin is an energetic dog who likes physical activity. He feels best in a fenced yard, but he does not refuse to live in the apartment as long as he is given enough physical exercise.

In the warm season, as much as possible, offer him at least one swimming session a week, preferably in not very cold waters. 2 or 3 walks a day are necessary to consume energy. The ideal master for Boykin is one who has a dynamic lifestyle with many outdoor activities.

Boykin Spaniel Diseases

It is generally a healthy dog, with no established hereditary disorders. Hip dysplasia and cataracts are more common.

Sporadically, heart and skin disorders (allergies) occur. Ear infections are quite common due to the anatomy of the ear pavilion and poor hygiene.

He lives to be 16.