The Boykin Spaniel is a skilled hunting dog that originated in the wetlands of South Carolina. This medium-sized spaniel is known for its friendly and eager-to-please personality, making it just as happy flushing birds as it is being a family pet.
The breed came about in the early 1900s when Whit Boykin received a stray dog named Dumpy from a hunting partner, according to The Boykin Spaniel Society (BSS). From these beginnings, the Boykin Spaniel became South Carolina’s state dog, known for hunting turkeys, ducks, and doves.
Weighing up to 40 pounds and standing under 18 inches tall, Boykin Spaniels all have a reddish-brown coat, sometimes with small white patches on their chest.
Caring for a Boykin Spaniel
Boykin Spaniels are intelligent, friendly dogs that love to swim, hunt, and play. They have low grooming needs and are generally healthy, but they thrive in active families and require several hours of exercise and attention every day. Boykins are easy to train, eager to please, and get along well with kids and other pets.
Boykin Spaniel Health Issues
The BSS advises pet owners to get DNA tests for their Boykin Spaniels to screen for genetic conditions. Reputable breeders should also provide health information about their puppies’ parents.
- Exercise-Induced Collapse: This genetic condition causes muscle weakness and lack of coordination after intense exercise, potentially leading to collapse. While severe cases can be fatal, with careful management, affected dogs can still live healthy lives.
- Canine Degenerative Myelopathy: This condition leads to weakness in the back legs, eventually causing paralysis. Though it is not painful, there is no cure, and it tends to affect dogs in middle to old age.
- Pulmonic Stenosis: A congenital heart defect seen in medium and large breeds, including Boykins. Mild cases may not have a big impact, but more severe cases can lead to heart problems and may require surgery.
Feeding Your Boykin Spaniel
Feed your Boykin Spaniel a high-quality dog food that meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Choose food that suits their life stage, whether they are puppies, adults, or seniors.
- How to Feed: Boykin puppies should have three meals a day until they turn one, after which they can switch to two meals daily. Stick to a consistent feeding routine.
- How Much to Feed: On average, a Boykin Spaniel needs about two cups of dry food each day, though active dogs may need more. Always consult your vet to ensure you’re feeding your dog the right amount.
Boykin Spaniel Behavior and Training

Boykin Spaniels are energetic and need several hours of exercise each day. They were bred for hunting and have excellent stamina. While not all Boykins are hyperactive, even calmer ones need regular walks, hikes, and swimming to stay happy. Without enough activity, they may become destructive.
These dogs are friendly, affectionate, and eager to please, making them easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. If you’re training your Boykin for hunting, you may want to consider hiring a professional trainer.
Fun Activities for Boykin Spaniels
- Hunting
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Obedience training
- Agility trials
- Retrieving
- Dock diving
Grooming Guide for Boykin Spaniels
Boykin Spaniels shed moderately and need regular brushing. However, other grooming tasks are fairly simple unless they’ve been swimming.
- Skin Care: Boykins can get skin irritations if they aren’t properly dried after swimming. Keeping their coat trimmed in summer can help prevent moisture buildup.
- Coat Care: Their medium-length, fine hair needs brushing at least once a week to reduce shedding and prevent matting. They can be bathed up to once a month, but more frequent bathing can dry out their coat.
- Eye Care: Keep the hair around their eyes trimmed and free of debris. If you notice any changes, consult your vet.
- Ear Care: Like other spaniels, Boykins are prone to ear infections. Weekly cleaning with a dog-safe solution and keeping the hair around their ears trimmed will help prevent moisture buildup and infections.
By keeping up with these care tips, your Boykin Spaniel will stay happy and healthy, whether they’re enjoying time in the field or relaxing at home.