Boykin Spaniel

Stats:

• Height:  14-18 inches
• Weight:  25-40 pounds
• Coat:  Medium-length, wavy to curly; water-resistant double coat
• Colors:  Rich liver, brown, or dark chocolate—the signature "Little Brown Dog"
• Lifespan:  14-16 years

Origin & History

The Boykin Spaniel originated in South Carolina in the early 1900s when a stray spaniel-type dog named "Dumpy" was discovered outside a church in Spartanburg. This small brown dog was given to a local hunter named L. Whitaker Boykin, who recognized its exceptional hunting abilities in the swamps and rivers of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Whitaker Boykin, for whom the breed is named, was an avid hunter and photographer who dedicated years to developing the perfect hunting companion for the region's unique terrain.

Through careful selective breeding with Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Springer Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, and other hunting dogs, the Boykin Spaniel was developed as the perfect turkey and waterfowl retriever for South Carolina hunters. Their compact size allowed them to ride comfortably in small boats without rocking them, earning them the beloved nickname "the dog that doesn't rock the boat." They were also used for flushing and retrieving wild turkeys, ducks, and upland game birds in the challenging Lowcountry environment.

Recognized as the official state dog of South Carolina in 1985 and by the AKC in 2009, the Boykin Spaniel remains a beloved hunting companion and family pet, particularly in the American South. The breed is still relatively rare outside the Southeast, but those who discover them become devoted enthusiasts. Today's Boykin retains all the qualities that made them invaluable to hunters a century ago—enthusiasm for work, adaptability to various terrain, and an affectionate nature with their families. They're equally at home retrieving ducks from icy water or curling up on the couch after a long day in the field, making them one of the most versatile and charming sporting breeds in existence.