How to Identify a Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel is an American spaniel breed and part of the sporting group. [1] Bred in the 20th century from other spaniel and retrieving breeds, the Boykin is a versatile retriever, flusher, and hunter. [2] They share some features with other breeds, particularly spaniels, but they do have a few unique characteristics of their own. By recognizing these traits, this wikiHow will help you identify a Boykin Spaniel.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Observing the Structure

  1. Boykin Spaniels are medium in size. Males stand at 15.5–18 inches (39–46 cm) in height and weigh 30–40 pounds (14–18 kg), while females are 14–16.5 inches (36–42 cm) tall with a weight of 25–35 pounds (11–16 kg). [3]
  2. A Boykin Spaniel's head is a bit broad, and in shape, it is rounded around the back and sides but has a flat top. The size is proportionate to the body with a moderate stop. [4]
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  3. The eyes of a Boykin Spaniel are medium-sized and may be shaped to resemble ovals or almonds. They are set a bit apart from each other and may be any shade of brown, yellow, or amber. They give off a trusting yet self-confident expression. [5]
  4. If brought forward, a Boykin Spaniel's ears go to the nose, being set at or above the eye level, typically higher if the dog is alert. They are of thin leather and flat but pendulous and hang down by the dog's cheeks. [6]
  5. The muzzle and skull of a Boykin Spaniel are roughly equal in length, but the muzzle is only about half the width of the skull. It is straight without appearing snippy and ends in a dark liver-colored nose with nostrils that are fairly wide open. The well-fit lips are without flews and conceal a scissors or level bite. [7]
  6. A Boykin Spaniel has round, arched, cat-like paws that are proportionately medium in size yet compact. The thick pads lay well underneath the close toes that are webbed to allow for better swimming. [8]
  7. The tail of a Boykin Spaniel is usually docked so that it is only between 3–5 inches (7.6–12.7 cm) in length. Carried at or a bit above the horizontal, it is known to move in a lively manner, especially as the dog hunts. [9]
  8. Boykin Spaniels are fair in size and structure as they were bred to be smaller and a bit lighter in weight than other spaniels and sporting dogs; however, they should still appear well in muscle, moderate in bone, and solid in build. They have a slightly arched neck, cleanly sloping shoulders, a bit of a tuckup, a straight topline, and balanced legs. Their gait is long and effortless with balance and drive. [10]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Viewing the Coat

  1. A Boykin Spaniel's coat may be flat, wavy, or curly. Each of these coat types appear medium in length, though their appearances are otherwise very different. [11] See if the dog's coat has one of these appearances.
  2. Though each coat type is of a medium length, a bit of feathering or fringe appears on the belly, chest, legs, and ears. The coat is also usually trimmed around the natural lines of the dog. [12]
  3. Boykin Spaniels are liver in color. This may range from light to dark and includes shades of chocolate and deep reddish brown. There may be a small bit of white on the chest, but the dog is otherwise solid liver. [13]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Noticing Temperament

  1. As a sporting breed, Boykin Spaniels need a good deal of exercise and activity to relieve their energy needs. Luckily, they are fairly versatile when it comes to exercise and can enjoy activities ranging from swimming to hiking. [14]

    Did you know? The Boykin Spaniel is the state dog of South Carolina and has its own "Boykin Spaniel Day" on September 1st. It was the only breed bred in the state for local hunters and proved to be an excellent hunting dog. [15]

  2. True working dogs, Boykin Spaniels love to be given a job to complete. They are notably eager to fulfill a task, play, or do what their people ask of them. [16]
  3. Boykin Spaniels value being the main attention-getter. They love the spotlight and may display behaviors that are attention-seeking. [17]
  4. Overall, a Boykin Spaniel is very friendly and wants to be friends with everyone around. They are companionable and desire to share their love with everyone. [18]
  5. Boykin Spaniels are relatively quick learners and can prove to be a bit easier to train than other breeds. Their intelligence also makes them highly adaptable. [19]
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      Tips

      • Consider DNA testing if you wish to know the breed of your own dog. A DNA test will confirm if your dog is a Boykin Spaniel.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boykin-spaniel/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boykin-spaniel/
      3. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boykin-spaniel/
      4. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      5. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      6. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      7. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      8. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      9. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      1. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      2. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      3. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      4. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BoykinSpaniel.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/boykin-spaniel-temperament/
      6. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boykin-spaniel/
      7. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/boykin-spaniel-temperament/
      8. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/boykin-spaniel-temperament/
      9. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/boykin-spaniel-temperament/
      10. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/boykin-spaniel-temperament/

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