Among many Spaniels, comparing Boykin spaniel vs cocker spaniel dogs isn’t that hard. Boykin Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel dogs are beloved breeds known for their friendly and loyal personalities. While they have some similarities, there are also notable differences between the breeds.

Boykin Spaniels were originally bred in South Carolina to hunt wild turkeys and waterfowl. They are medium-sized dogs with thick, wavy coats in various colors, from brown to liver. They are intelligent and energetic dogs that love to be active and spend time with their owners.

On the other hand, Cocker Spaniels were originally bred in England as hunting dogs, but they have since become popular companion animals. They are small to medium-sized dogs with long, silky coats that can come in various colors. They are affectionate and playful dogs that make great family pets.

Difference between cocker spaniel vs Boykin spaniel: Appearance

Cocker spaniels are medium-sized dogs with long, floppy ears and a silky, wavy coat. They have a round head with a short, square muzzle, and their eyes are dark and expressive. Several American cocker spaniel colors combination are available, including black, white, buff, tan, and red.

Boykin spaniels are also medium-sized dogs but have a more athletic build than cocker spaniels. They have a curly or wavy coat that can be solid brown or liver, and their ears are long and pendulous. Boykin spaniels have a broad, slightly rounded head with a medium-length muzzle; their eyes are usually amber or brown. For the coats – Boykin spaniel colors are chocolate, brown, and liver.

Cocker spaniels and Boykin spaniels differ in their coat texture and color, ear shape, and head shape, with cocker spaniels having a more silky coat and rounder head, while Boykin spaniels have a more athletic build, curly/wavy coat, and broader head.

Cocker Spaniels are generally smaller than Boykin Spaniels. Cocker Spaniels may be more nervous or easily overwhelmed by larger dogs or unfamiliar situations, while Boykin Spaniels may be more confident and assertive.

Personality Difference between cocker spaniel vs Boykin spaniel

Due to their breeding history, both dogs have significant differences in their personalities. Here are the main Boykin spaniel vs Cocker spaniel personality differences. Read our blog to learn more about Cocker Spaniel’s temperament and personality.

Personality Difference between cocker spaniel vs Boykin spaniel

Energy Level

Boykin Spaniels are known for their high energy level and require plenty of exercise and activity to stay healthy and happy. On the other hand, Cocker Spaniels are a bit more relaxed and can be content with a moderate amount of exercise.

Trainability

Both breeds are highly trainable, but Cocker Spaniels are known for being a bit more stubborn and independent-minded. They may take longer to train and require consistent positive reinforcement. Boykin Spaniels are generally more eager to please their owners and may respond more quickly to training.

Temperament

Cocker Spaniels are known for being affectionate, loving, and gentle. They are great family dogs and tend to get along well with children and other pets. Boykin Spaniels are also very friendly but have a slightly higher prey drive and may not be as good with small pets like cats.

Boykin Spaniel vs American Cocker Spaniel: Comparing The Grooming Needs

The Boykin Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel are both popular breeds of spaniel dogs with unique grooming requirements. Here are some of the differences in their grooming needs:

  • The Boykin Spaniel needs to be brushed at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling of the coat. The American Cocker Spaniel, however, requires daily brushing to keep the coat healthy and free from tangles.
  • The Boykin Spaniel’s coat requires minimal trimming, except occasional trimming of the ears and feet. The American Cocker Spaniel, however, requires regular coat trimming around the feet, ears, and tail.
  • Both breeds need to be bathed regularly to keep their coats clean and healthy. However, the American Cocker Spaniel requires bathing more frequently due to its long coat.

Behavioral Differences Between Boykin Spaniel & Cocker Spaniel

Boykin Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel are two popular dog breeds with distinct physical and behavioral characteristics.

Energy level

Boykin Spaniels are generally more active and high-energy than Cocker Spaniels. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and had a lot of energy and stamina. Cocker Spaniels, on the other hand, are known for being more laid-back and less energetic.

Behavioral Differences Between Boykin Spaniel & Cocker Spaniel

Prey drive

As a hunting dog, the Boykin spaniel dog behaviour reflects a strong prey drive. They may be more prone to chasing and hunting small animals like squirrels and rabbits. Cocker Spaniels also have a prey drive, which is generally less intense than in Boykin Spaniels.

Adaptability

Boykin Spaniels do best in active households with plenty of opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities. They may not do as well in apartment living or with owners who have a more sedentary lifestyle. Cocker Spaniels are more adaptable and can do well in various living situations, including apartments and homes with less outdoor space.

Boykin Spaniel vs Cocker Spaniel: Health Issues

Although the Boykin Spaniel is a generally healthy species, there are several health risks that you should routinely discuss with your veterinarian. On the other hand, American Cocker Spaniels are healthy dogs, but both breeds of dogs have some health issues. Here are some of the health concerns that are more commonly seen in Boykin Spaniels vs. Cocker Spaniels:

Hip Dysplasia

This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop correctly, causing pain and lameness. This condition is more common in dogs like Boykin Spaniels and Irish Setter and this health condition is less likely to happen to Cocker Spaniels.

Ear Infections

Both breeds are prone to ear infections, but Cocker Spaniels have longer ears, which can lead to more frequent and severe infections.

Eye Problems

Cocker Spaniels are more prone to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness.

Skin Allergies

Both breeds can suffer from skin allergies, but Cocker Spaniels are more prone to this condition. Allergies can cause itching, redness, and skin infections.

Autoimmune Diseases

Boykin Spaniels are more prone to autoimmune diseases such as Addison’s disease, which affects the adrenal gland, and hypothyroidism, which affects the thyroid gland.

Obesity

Both breeds can become overweight or obese if they are overfed or not exercised enough. This can lead to other health problems such as joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease.

Costing Difference Between Boykin Spaniel vs Cocker Spaniel

Costing Difference Between Boykin Spaniel vs Cocker Spaniel

The cost difference between a Boykin Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel can vary depending on several factors, including location, breeder reputation, and availability. However, in general, Boykin Spaniels tend to be more expensive than Cocker Spaniels.

Boykin Spaniels are a relatively rare breed that originated in South Carolina, and as such, they may be more challenging to find and come with a higher price tag. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), a Boykin Spaniel puppy from a reputable breeder costs around $1,500 to $2,500.

In contrast, Cocker Spaniels are a more popular breed that has been around for a long time, and as such, they are generally more widely available and more affordable. The AKC estimates that the average cost of a Cocker Spaniel puppy from a reputable breeder is around $1,000 to $1,500.

FAQ

1.   What is the Difference Between Boykin and Cocker Spaniel?

Boykin Spaniel is larger than Cocker Spaniel. Boykin Spaniel typically weighs 25-40 pounds, while Cocker Spaniel weighs 20-30 pounds.

Boykin Spaniel has a short, dense, and curly coat that requires moderate grooming, while Cocker Spaniel has long, silky coat that requires more grooming.

Color: Boykin Spaniel comes in various colors, including liver, chocolate, and black, while Cocker Spaniel comes in a wide range of colors, including black, white, brown, and red.

Temperament: Boykin Spaniel is known for its friendly, social, and trainable nature. They make great family pets and are good with children. Cocker Spaniel is also a friendly and social breed but may be more reserved with strangers.

Purpose: Boykin Spaniel was originally bred for hunting and retrieving, while Cocker Spaniel was bred for flushing and retrieving game.

2.   Do Boykin Spaniels Make Good House Dogs?

Yes, they do. Boykin Spaniels can be good house dogs if they have sufficient space.

3.  Which Spaniels are the Calmest?

Spaniels are generally known for their friendly and affectionate nature, but some breeds may be calmer. Here are a few Spaniel breeds that are known for their calm temperament:

English Cocker Spaniel: The English Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, loyal, and affectionate breed. They are known for being calm and patient, making them great family pets.

Clumber Spaniel: The Clumber Spaniel is a mellow and laid-back breed. They are known for being very calm and relaxed, which makes them great companions for families with children.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, affectionate breed that is known for its calm and gentle nature. They are great family dogs and are especially well-suited to homes with children.

Sussex Spaniel: The Sussex Spaniel is a quiet and laid-back breed known for its calm demeanor. They are friendly and affectionate, making them great companions for families with children.

4.   Which is the Best Spaniel to Buy?

The best Spaniels that you can buy are –

  1. Cavalier King Charles spaniel
  2. King Charles spaniel
  3. English cocker spaniel
  4. Papillon
  5. American cocker spaniel
  6. English springer spaniel
  7. Clumber spaniel
  8. Welsh springer spaniel.

5.   Why are Cocker Spaniels So Friendly?

Firstly, Cocker Spaniels are social dogs that crave attention and love to be around people. They are often bred to be companion animals and have a long history of being loyal and affectionate companions.

Secondly, Cocker Spaniels have naturally outgoing and cheerful personalities. They are happy dogs that enjoy playing, cuddling, and spending time with their owners. They are also adaptable and thrive in different living environments, from apartments to large homes.

Conclusion

Both Boykin Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel dogs are great choices for families looking for a loyal and friendly pets. Boykin Spaniels are more suited for active owners who enjoy outdoor activities, while Cocker Spaniels are better suited for owners who want a lap dog that can also be playful and active.

While both breeds are affectionate and friendly, the Boykin Spaniel is known to be a more versatile and energetic hunting dog, while the Cocker Spaniel is typically more of a companion and show dog. Additionally, the Boykin Spaniel tends to be larger and more robust than the Cocker Spaniel, which is smaller and more delicate. We hope now you have clear ideas for comparing Boykin spaniel vs Cocker spaniel.