Health Education of the Boykin Spaniel

Boykin Spaniels have a diverse genetic makeup from their mix variety of spaniels, pointers and retrievers. All dogs, whether mix or pure bred have a predisposition of certain health abnormalities due to their genetics they inherited from their canine ancestors. Boykins Spaniels are no exception to this rule; however, good breeders are working diligently to breed out problems.

The Boykin Spaniel Club & Breeders Association of America, as the American Kennel Club parent club to the Boykin Spaniels, is working to improve the health of the Boykin Spaniels. We are working with organizations that are experts in their fields to help identify, record and ultimately eliminate genetic diseases from the breed.

The BSCBAA strongly encourages prospective puppy buyers to do their due diligence when interviewing breeders when purchasing a new Boykin Spaniel puppy.

The Boykin Spaniel’s most common health problems are hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, patellar luxation, CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly) and EIC (Exercise Induced Collapse). 

The following are the CHIC requirements with new changes effective as of 11/1/15 for Boykin Spaniels to obtain a CHIC number:
1. Eye Examination by a boarded ACVO Ophthalmologist with results registered with OFA or CERF.
2. Patellar Luxation - OFA Evaluation
3. Hip Dysplasia - OFA or OVC or PennHip Evaluation
4. Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) - DNA test through approved lab. This was added as a requirement 11/1/15
5. Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) - DNA test through approved lab. This was added as a requirement 11/1/15
6. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) - DNA test through approved lab. This was added as a requirement 2/23/18

Optional:
1. Congenital Cardiac Database - Congenital Cardiac Exam, Advanced or Basic Cardiac Exam
2. Elbow Dysplasia - OFA Evaluation

There has been some more recent concerns for additional DNA testing for Intervertebral Disc Disease/Chondrodystrophy (IVDD/CDDY) and Chondrodysplasia (CDPA). Paw Print Genetics presented a very informative seminar to the BSCBAA on August 20, 2020 and your can click here to view the slide presentation. In light of this new information, we are encouraging Boykin Spaniel owners and breeders to have this DNA test administered and hopefully with enough information can proceed with research.

HEALTH & GENETICS COMMITTEE

The BSCBAA Health & Genetics Committee has been presenting informative and quality seminars via zoom calls. We have put together outlines or slides from the presentations.

I. Paw Print Genetics presented on DNA testing and IVDD/CDDY. click here to view the slide presentation

II. Boykin Spaniel Ear Care Presentation on August 12, 2021 - Click here to view outline.

III. Vaccination Protocol Presentation on October 7, 2021 - Click here to view Slide Show.

IV. Canine First Aid Kit from a Vet Prospective on April 5, 2022 - Click here to view Slide Show.

The links below are helpful organizations in testing, recording and identifying the major health issues.

CHIC - Canine Health Information Center

OFA - Orthopedic Foundation For Animals

CERF - Canine Eye Registration Foundation

University of Minnesota  Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory - EIC

American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation

Paw Print Genetics

VetStreet.com-information on vets and guidelines on keeping your pet healthy.

Please contact us if you have additional questions concerning the health issues and breeders’ ethic policies at this link: Contact the BSCBAA. 

Please click here to read the breed standard.