Do you want to know the difference between an American Water Spaniel and a Boykin Spaniel?
In some ways, these dogs are similar for they are bred as hunting dogs and yet they are rare breeds.
Find out which of these popular breeds is the best fit for your lifestyle by reading on!
The Sporting Group includes both the American Water Spaniel and the Boykin Spaniel.
Despite the fact that these breeds belong to the same breed group, they have some variances as well as similarities, so keep reading to find out more.
In terms of size, the two breeds are nearly identical.
Continue reading to learn more about the differences between the American Water Spaniel and the Boykin Spaniel, and maybe you’ll be able to decide which is better for you based on the united kennel club, American kennel club, and Boykin spaniel society or Boykin spaniel club.
Related Articles:
- The Boykin Spaniel Dog Profile
- American Water Spaniel
- Life Expectancy Of Cocker Spaniels [Quick Facts]
- How Much Do Cocker Spaniels Weigh? [Answered]
- Are Cocker Spaniels Good Family Dogs? [Answered]
- Spaniels Cocker Breed Info [Facts]
Table of Contents
What makes a cocker spaniel different from a Boykin Spaniel?
The Boykin Spaniel is only slightly larger than an English Cocker Spaniel, but it is significantly heavier in terms of body width.
Males have a wither height of 15.5–17 in (39–43 cm) and a weight of 30–40 lb (14–18 kg).
Females are smaller, with a height of 14–16.5 in (36–42 cm) and a weight of 25–35 lb (11–16 kg).
Overview
Boykin and American Water Spaniel dogs have distinct appearances.
Boykins are less difficult to groom.
They are more self-sufficient, tolerant of solitude, and child-friendly.
They necessitate more active owners and physical activity.
English Springer Spaniel is more sensitive, needy, and kind to strangers than other breeds.
They are more suitable for first-time buyers and apartments.
How varied can Spaniel breed be if they all have the same origins?
The answer is a resounding yes!
While there are some similarities–after all, they were created for the same purpose–the differences between a Boykin Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel are obvious.
For example, spaniel breeds like Irish water spaniel, American brown spaniel, field spaniel, American cocker spaniel, English water spaniel, English cocker spaniel, and springer spaniel.
Is this to imply that one Spaniel breed is superior to another?
Not in the least.
It depends on your preferences, your lifestyle, and whether or not you can provide the Spaniel with a suitable home.
If you’re trying to select between a Boykin Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel, or if you’re just curious about the differences, the following essay was written with the goal of providing you with a thorough comparison of these two wonderful breeds.
Summary Of The Major Classifications, Their Lifespan, And Differences In Appearance
- Cocker Spaniels are smaller, but Boykin Spaniels are larger and heavier.
- The Cocker Spaniels have longer coats with less feathering, while Boykin Spaniels have shorter coats with less feathering.
- Cocker Spaniels are available in a wider range of colors than Boykin Spaniels.
- The Cocker Spaniels have larger jowls, domed heads, and proportionally wider muzzles (relative to skull size) than Boykin Spaniels.
- Ears of a Cocker Spaniel are longer and hairier than those of a Boykin Spaniel.
Boykin Spaniel Temperament Contrasted To The American Water Spaniel Temperament
Based on the breed standard and the most regularly observed behaviors and features, the following information is a generalized temperament.
Personality, age, breeding quality, socialization, training, history, and living environment can all have an impact on a Spaniel’s temperament.
Temperament is likewise a scale rather than a fixed point.
Many dogs, for example, can be regarded as friendly, but there are many and subjective degrees of friendliness, ranging from sweet to boisterous.
The Most Important Temperament Differences
- Boykin Spaniels puppy have a higher level of independence and intensity than Cocker Spaniels.
- The Boykin Spaniels are more sensitive and require more attention than Cocker Spaniels.
- Boykin Spaniels are said to be more child-friendly than American Water Spaniel puppy.
- Strangers are treated more kindly by Cocker Spaniels than by Boykin Spaniels.
Differences In Exercise And Training Requirements In Brief
- Cocker Spaniels need less exercise than Boykin Spaniels.
- Boykin Spaniels, unlike Cocker Spaniels, demand a more active owner and lifestyle.
- Boykin Spaniels, as waterfowl bird dogs, have a stronger affinity for water than Cocker Spaniels.
Differences In Adaptability And Living Environment Summary
- Cocker Spaniels are a better choice than Boykin Spaniels.
- Boykin Spaniels are more tolerant than Cocker Spaniels of being left alone for a few hours.
- Boykin Spaniels are not suited to flats without unrestricted access to a yard, although Cocker Spaniels can adjust to apartment life.
Adaptability of the American Water Spaniel Compared to the Boykin Spaniel
Most people think of “dog adaptation” when they think of apartment living, so let’s start there.
All dogs are wonderful, but not all canines are suitable for apartment living.
For a variety of factors, including size, energy level, loudness, odor, and shedding, a dog may be regarded as the worst dog breed for apartments.
American Water Spaniels and Boykin Spaniels, unfortunately, do not have a good reputation as apartment dogs.
Read our list of dogs that can be left alone for more information.
Tolerance for hot temperatures
You should choose a dog that can handle hot or cold temperatures depending on where you live.
When it comes to the American Water Spaniel and Boykin Spaniel, these breeds do well in hot weather, but you should still exercise caution when it’s hot.
Provide shade and water during hot weather, and go out early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
Avoid pavements as well; if the ground is too hot to touch for a few seconds with your hand, it’s too hot for paws.
What about in the winter?
Most dogs are unaffected by cold temperatures until they fall below 45° F, at which point some cold-sensitive canines may get uncomfortable.
When temperatures dip below 20° F, all dog owners should be aware that their pets may acquire cold-related health concerns such as hypothermia and frostbite.
The Boykin Spaniel is more resistant to cold than the American Water Spaniel.
Keeping a tight check on your dog’s behavior when it’s chilly is the greatest method to keep track of them.
Are you looking for the ideal family dog?
You can’t go wrong with an American Water Spaniel or a Boykin Spaniel.
Their energetic and pleasant demeanor makes them an excellent family pick.
They will become family members almost instantly because they are both quite affectionate with their families.
There isn’t much of a difference between these breeds when it comes to behavior with children.
Needs For Health And Grooming
What about dropping some pounds?
Shedding is undoubtedly one of the disadvantages of owning a dog.
As a result, keep this in mind while selecting the breed that is suitable for you.
The Boykin Spaniel sheds less than the American Water Spaniel, however, keep in mind that avoiding shedding is difficult, thus brushing is required on a regular basis.
Potential for drooling?
We have some wonderful news for you.
The drooling potential is modest in these breeds.
Do the American Water Spaniel and the Boykin Spaniel require a lot of exercises?
You must provide adequate physical activity for your dog to remain healthy, calm, and happy.
When your dog is active, it will not only be healthier and happier, but it will also exhibit less or no destructive behavior.
Because some people overlook this while choosing a breed, we’ve dedicated an entire chapter to physical requirements.
Both the American Water Spaniel and the Boykin Spaniel require a lot of activity.
It means they’ll need at least 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity on most days of the week, if not every day.
A leashed stroll isn’t considered hard aerobic exercise; instead, think of aerobic exercise as anything that causes your dog to pant.
Cost of a Boykin Spaniel Compared to Cocker Spaniel
Boykin Spaniels are more expensive than Cocker Spaniels because they are more scarce.
Boykin Spaniel puppies sell for an average of $2500 from AKC-affiliated puppy breeders, whereas Cocker Spaniel puppies sell for an average of $1800.
Rescuing a Boykin Spaniel or a Cocker Spaniel will be less expensive, and it may even the playing field in terms of pricing.
You can contact Spaniel rescue groups or animal shelters to see if they have any Boykins or Spaniels in need of a home.
Conclusion
Both Boykin Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels are hunting dogs that flush out birds.
Their appearances are vastly different.
Despite their numerous similarities in temperament and requirements, there are enough variances between them that one of these dogs could be the ideal match for you, while the other could be completely unsuitable.
Boykin Spaniels require energetic, experienced owners, a yard, plenty of exercises, and little maintenance.
Cocker Spaniels are a good choice for first-time dog owners and apartment dwellers because they require less exercise than a Boykin Spaniel but require more upkeep.
Boykin Spaniels are more independent and intense canines, yet they can be left alone for a short period of time.
English Cocker Spaniels are more sensitive and needy, and when left alone, they are very unhappy.
Both Spaniels get along well with their families and form strong bonds with them.
A Boykin Spaniel is friendlier to strangers than a Cocker Spaniel, but a Cocker Spaniel is better with youngsters.
When deciding between these two fantastic bird dog breeds, it’s important to think about your personality and home surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
American water spaniels are recognized for being intelligent, obedient, friendly, and good with other animals and children.
They’re also excellent watchdogs.
They make ideal family pets because of these features.
Boykin Spaniels are well-known for their hunting ability as well as their potential to be wonderful family dogs.
Boykin Spaniels are energetic, intelligent, and loyal dogs with a strong desire to please.
It’s vital to remember that they can get themselves into trouble in the blink of an eye, especially as puppies.
Crate training is recommended for the dog’s safety.
For active families, the Boykin Spaniel is an excellent choice.
Keep in mind that this breed requires a lot of exercise before adopting.
Boykins, on the other hand, get along well with youngsters and are affectionate dogs.
They have a happy, pleasant, and curious demeanor.