Do you adore the Boykin Spaniel and other various Spaniel breeds? How do you know whether you are ready to purchase and dog and if this breed is right for you? This information is very important in making the serious decision to purchase a pet.
History
Solid history on the original of the Boykin Spaniel dates back to the early 1900’s when a banker named Alex L. White was followed home by a friendly stray; White gave the dog to his friend, L.W. Boykin who worked as a professional hunter. Boykin trained the stray (named Dumpy) to hunt turkey and waterfowl and Dumpy when on to become the first historical sire to the Boykin Spaniel breed.
Researchers believe that early Boykin Spaniels are descendents a combination of several possible breeds, including: the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, the Springer Spaniel, the Cocker Spaniel, and the American Water Spaniel. The Boykin Spaniel’s connection to these breeds has not been scientifically confirmed.
It was July 5, 1977, before an official club, The Boykin Spaniel Society, was established in honor of this breed. In 1985, the Boykin Spaniel was accepted to the United Kennel Club and classified into the Hunting Group.
While the Boykin Spaniel remains a rare breed today, enthusiasts and breeders alike are working hard to spread the word and create popularity for this incredible breed.
Personality Traits
The Boykin Spaniel is known as being the most affectionate and relaxed of all the Spaniel breeds, even the darling Cocker Spaniel. This breed makes an excellent pet and companion and is especially fond of children.
This is an extremely smart and energetic breed that enjoys to swim and play.
Train-ability
Training and commands come almost naturally to all Spaniel breeds, including the Boykin Spaniel. These dogs were bred for hunting and have a strong need for leadership and direction. Anyone purchasing a Boykin needs to show direct domination to the dog from the very beginning, in order to begin a successful relationship for future training.
While most Boykin Spaniels typically succeed in early training, not all dogs are alike. Some Spaniel breeds are known to be stubborn. Once the Spaniel’s personality traits are established, further methods of training can be introduced.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Boykin Spaniel. This is a relatively small breed, and is a perfect dog for car and even boat trips. These dogs are known for being sweet and affectionate and are typically extremely nice and gentle with children. The Boykin Spaniel was bred to hunt, and still makes an excellent hunting dog today.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Boykin Spaniel. These dogs do not do well in the elements of winter. Boykins must be dressed in a thick jacket or have their fur treated in order to remain outside for very long in the cold.
Being bred as an agile hunting dog, the Boykin Spaniel needs daily exercise and room to run and explore. Anyone wishing to purchase a Boykin or any Spaniel breed without adequate room and time to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so.
The Boykin Spaniel loves water and enjoys swimming. While there is usually no need to worry about the dog’s safety while swimming, a muddy pup running around the house is a concern. Large bodies of water and even small mud puddles are a treat for this breed. The Boykin needs to be supervised when outside or he may become quite messy.
As previously mentioned, the Boykin Spaniel remains a rather rare breed, especially outside of its native United States. Individuals wishing to purchase a Boykin Spaniel may encounter difficulties locating a breeder, high prices, and being placed on a waiting list.
Common Health Concerns
Like most Spaniels, the Boykin Spaniel is often the victim of health problems, such as: being born with or developing hip dysplasia, various eye problems such as cherry eye, patellar luxation – a condition in which the knee cap dislocates and settles into another space, elbow dysplasia and other common joint problems such as arthritis, jaw problems such as extreme underbite, and skin allergies.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Boykin Spaniel? Remember, purchasing a pet is an important decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.boykinspaniel.us
