Miniature American Shepherd vs Boykin Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Boykin Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Boykin Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Boykin Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Boykin Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Boykin Spaniel5/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Boykin Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Boykin Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Exercise Induced Collapse: Activity care
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Collie Eye Anomaly: Genetic eye concern
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Boykin Spaniel
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Friendly family dog
Highly trainable
Good with children
Versatile athlete
Cons
Requires regular exercise
Moderate grooming needs
Can be sensitive
Needs consistent training
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Boykin Spaniel Fun Fact
Known as 'the little brown dog that doesn't rock the boat' due to their compact size and steady nature.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Boykin Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in South Carolina during the early 1900s by hunters seeking a versatile retriever for waterfowl and wild turkey hunting in local swamps and marshlands.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Boykin Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise routine. Monitor for common health issues and maintain regular veterinary check-ups.