The Boykin Spaniel was originally bred in the early 1900’s in South Carolina for use in hunting ducks and wild turkey. With selective breeding, the Boykin Spaniel has become a versatile hunting dog. During the 1970’s The Boykin Spaniel Society was formed as the original and official breed registry. The breed is also now a member of the UKC's Gundog Group.

The Boykin is well known for its good temperament and are very sociable and family-oriented. They are inherently active dogs and are smart enough to amuse themselves if they get bored or are left alone for long periods of time.

DID YOU KNOW? On September 1, 1984 the Boykin Spaniel was selected as the State Dog of South Carolina. The Boykin Spaniel is indeed a multi-purpose dog excelling in the field as well as the home.

Originating in Bologna, Italy during the Renaissance, the Bolognese was a beloved pet among the wealthy.

Both Cosimo de Medici and King Umberto gave these fluffy canines as gifts to family, friends and dignitaries.

Over the centuries its numbers dwindled as the aristocracy power waned, but dedicated breeders eventually restored the Bolognese population.

Its origins are confused with those of the Maltese, because its distant ancestors are the same little dogs mentioned in Latin by Aristotle (384 - 322 BC) under the denomination of "canes melitenses."

Already known in the Roman era, the Bolognese appears most especially among the very appreciated gifts that were made during a whole era by the powerful of that world. Cosimo de Medici (1389 - 1464) brought no less than eight to Brussels as gifts to as many Belgian noblemen.

The Bolognese is a Rare Breed Dog whose origins are shrouded in antiquity. The Bolognese has been making the lives of people happier and more complete for over 2000 years. This enchanting breed has timeless appeal. They may not roam the homes of Kings anymore, but they do bless each castle they romp in.

The Bolognese belongs to the Bichon group, originating from small white dogs called “Melitensis,” which were widespread in the Mediterranean countries. This breed is a cousin to the Maltese, the Havanese, the Bichon Frise, and the Coton de Tulear and Lowchen (Petit chien lion). These breeds are not related to the toy breeds of the far east. They are classified by the FCI as group 9, section 1. In 2012, they were part of the AKCFSS (Foundation Stock Services), for rare breeds.

Italian Nobility made the breed especially famous by giving puppies as gifts to other noble families during the Renaissance. They were celebrated as the most royal of gifts that one aristocrat could give to another. These little white dogs were considered a symbol of wealth, and many well–born Italian women considered the Bolognese a mandatory “accessory” to be spoiled, powdered and perfumed.

For centuries the Bolognese were the coveted and beloved companions of the European Nobility. Phillip II and Catherine the Great were among their admirers. They are depicted in Renaissance art and in writings and are even mentioned by Aristotle. Their bright, joyful temperaments made them a favorite in the Royal households where they warmed the hearts and laps of the mighty rulers.

The Gonzagas, a noble family that ruled parts of Italy between 1328 and 1708 were known to have bred Bolognese in their palatial estates. Queen Maria Theresa of Austria loved her little dog so much that she hired a taxidermist to preserve and mount its body. It can still be seen at the National Museum of History in Vienna.

As the popularity and power of the aristocracy began to diminish, this breed began slowly to wane. It was saved from near extinction by a small group of enthusiasts. In Italy, France and Holland, breeders have been working hard to restore the breed during the last couple of decades.

In general, Bolognese get along with children, but need to be protected to some extent from the outbursts of love and affection of younger children who do not understand that the small bones of the Bolognese cannot withstand the “bear hugs” of an enthusiastic child.

Bolognese love people. They have been selected for centuries based on love and companionship towards humans. Bolognese dogs suffer greatly if they are left alone for a long time. This breed is not suitable for individuals or families who spend a long time each day away from home. Today, the Bolognese continues as a devoted and loving pet and companion.
Playful, easy going, willing, intelligent and loyal.
Very calm and generally not considered a 'high energy' dog.
Can be somewhat reserved and shy initially, but warm quickly to strangers [not a great guard dog ~ tiny and too friendly!]
Get along well with most pets & small children.

On the 'fragile' side; small boned & not encouraged to 'roughing up' this breed.
Excellent companion for Seniors.
Travel well.
Good apartment dog. Great Watch dog.
Sweet Temperaments & Love People.
Do not suffer being left alone well. Prone to Separation Anxiety.
Cousin of the Maltese Dog.
Fairly Rare Breed.
Minimum Shedding ~ good for those with Allergies.
Require Regular Grooming.
Eager to please their human companions.