Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel is a sturdy breed with a low build and a solid head, making it a more relaxed mover compared to other Spaniels. This breed was developed in England for tracking scents in dense vegetation. Their coat is straight and soft, with feathery fur on their legs and chest, which adds to their fluffy look. Clumber Spaniels are friendly, dignified, and thoughtful in nature.

Quick Info

Size
Large
Colours
Mainly white with lemon or orange markings and freckling to the muzzle
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
Height
17 to 20 inches
Type
Gun Dog
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
55 to 85 pounds
Family

Personality

The Clumber Spaniel is a calm and gentle giant that behaves well at home. Their easygoing personality allows them to adapt to city life, but they really flourish in country or suburban areas. These dogs are loyal and often form a strong bond with just one person.

History

The Clumber Spaniel is a strong and solid breed, known to be one of the oldest types of Spaniels. It is believed that they originated from a mix of the Alpine Spaniel and the Basset Hound. Their name comes from Clumber Park, the estate of the Duke of Newcastle, during the time of the French Revolution. These gentle scent hounds were favored by the English upper class and made their way to America in the late 19th century. Today, there are probably only a few hundred Clumber Spaniels registered in the U.S., which makes them quite uncommon.

Ideal Owner

The Clumber Spaniel, though large, is kind and calm. This breed moves at a relaxed pace, making it a great choice for those who appreciate Spaniel qualities but prefer a more laid-back pet. They require regular exercise and training, but they are dependable and not easily stirred up. Their size makes them a good fit for families with older kids, especially considering their tendency to drool and get muddy.

Exercise Needs

Clumber Spaniels may not be as lively as some other types of Spaniels, but they have a lot of energy. They love to stay active with extended walks, scent activities, and running freely without a leash. It's also important to train them to come when called.

Space Requirements

Clumber Spaniel owners don’t require a huge area for their pets, but they should have a strong vacuum and plenty of towels for drool. These dogs tend to bring in water and dirt after walks, so having a spot for them to dry off is helpful. It's best if they have outdoor access, whether in the countryside or in a suburban setting.

Training

Clumber Spaniels are fond of activities that involve their sense of smell, although they tend to take their time compared to other breeds. They take pleasure in scent games, collaborating with their humans, and fetching items. To ensure they behave well, it’s important to train them in recall, leash walking, and exchanging objects.

Grooming

The Clumber Spaniel has a smooth, straight coat with longer hair on its legs and chest. This fur can get knotted easily, so regular grooming is important to keep it nice. Although their coats are not too hard to care for, they do shed hair and drool, so owners should be patient and might want to keep a cloth handy for the drool. They dry off quickly, and mud can be brushed away without much trouble.

Suitability for Family Life

Clumber Spaniel puppies are full of energy, which may not be ideal for households with young kids. Once they grow up, they become loyal and reliable family companions.

Did You know?

Prince Albert had a total of seven Clumber Spaniels. These dogs have been depicted in art since at least 1788.

Similar Breeds

English Springer Spaniel
Field Spaniel
Irish Water Spaniel

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Basic training required
Need to be aware of potential health issues
Enjoys gentle walks
Large dog
Some drool
Requires frequent grooming
Chatty and vocal dog