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The Boykin Spaniel is named after the Boykin community near Camden, South Carolina, where it was developed for flushing and retrieving wild turkeys in the Wateree River swamp region. The breed was created by crossing a small stray brown spaniel called "Dumpy" with the Cocker Spaniel, the English Springer Spaniel, the American Water Spaniel and the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.
At first, hunting with attractive new type of spaniel was confined to the rural districts of Camden, Sumter and Boykin, but it later became popular across much of the United States.  In addition to its turkey-work, it was widely used for both dove-hunt and duck-hunt. His tail is tradionally docked, not for aesthetic reasons but because, if left undocked, the long tail was wagged so furiously when the dog scented the turkey that it rustled the leaves and alerted the quarry too soon. The Boykin has a high tolerance for hot conditions, making him a suitable dog for the dove fields. They are also very good flushing dogs.
The Boykin Spaniel Society was formed in 1977 to promote the breed. In 1979 the society started a registry to keep accurate records of all existing Boykin Spaniels. The Boykin Spaniel is the official State Dog of South Carolina.
Photo courtesy of Brandywine Creek Boykin Spaniels - brandywinecreekboykins.com
Boykin Spaniel Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | USA |
| FCI Classification: |
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| FCI Official Name: |
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| Utilization: |
Gun dog, flusher and retriever |
| AKC Classification: |
FSS |
| Other Registries: |
UKC |
| Personality: | Cheerful, energetic, enthusiastic. |
| Size: | Medium |
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Height: | 14-18 inches at shoulders |
| Coat: | The coat is of medium length. It can be flat or slightly curly with or without feathering on the legs, feet, ears, chest, and belly |
| Colors: |
Liver (reddish brown) or dark chocolate. A small white spot on the chest is acceptable. |
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Other Names: | Boykin |
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Litter Size: | 6-8 |
| Life Span: | 10-12 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
Brush weekly |
| Shedding: | Little |
| Social skills: |
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| Suitability for Children: | Because of his cheerful and gentle nature, this breed has gained the reputation of a good family dog that is exceptionally good with children. |
| Exercise Needs: | Moderate. Fenced yard is a must. |
| Train Ability: | Responds well to gentle and consistent training. The Boykins are at their best when they are encouraged and when training is made fun and like a game. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | Hip dysplasia, cataracts, skin allergies, hyperactivity and aggressiveness have been seen in some bloodlines. |
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