Clumber Spaniel
Sporting Group
Height: 17-22 inches   Weight: 55-80 pounds  Color: pure white with lemon or orange markings

One of the original nine breeds registered by the AKC, the Clumber Spaniel’s long and low build is particularly unique among spaniels. Although not as speedy as other sporting dogs, the Clumber will work all day, trotting along in his signature slow, rolling gait. He may appear dignified and pensive, but he possesses great enthusiasm for both work and play. Some doubt exists about the origin of the Clumber Spaniel, but most believe the breed originated in 18th-century France with ancestors such as the Basset Hound and early Alpine Spaniel. The Clumber was prized for his ability to hunt in heavy cover and his quiet style, which allowed him to come up very close to the game. The breed received its modern name when a large French kennel moved Duke of Newcastle’s Clumber Park at the start of the French Revolution in an effort to save its dogs. They were favored by British monarchs for their solemn and majestic demeanor. The Clumber Spaniel is the keenest of hunters, and excels at retrieving pheasant and partridge. They are great water dogs, have a heightened sense of smell, and display remarkable stamina and endurance. General Appearance The Clumber Spaniel is a dog of medium size and a chunky and sturdy build. This is a very sweet and innocent looking dog with an adorable expression, and long soft ears that frame his face, making him look even sweeter The chest is broad and deep. It has a broad square head, wide across the top with a brownish or flesh colored nose. It has a deep stop and well developed lips. The muzzle is wide for good retrieving. The flews hang over the lower jaw. The eyes are dark amber and are slightly deep set, ears are large in the shape of vine leaves, hanging forward, and well covered with hair. The neck is thick, heavy, and feathered at the throat, and the tail is short-fringed. Dewclaw removal is optional. Carried level with the back, shoulders are robust and muscular. Limbs are short, straight and strong-boned. The coat of the Clumber Spaniel is very thick, silky, with a very dense undercoat. Very soft to the touch, the Clumber's hair is straight and weather resistant, which combined with its low body feature and heavy weight allows it to move through the field without tearing of the skin or damage to the body.  They have a feathered coat and their tails are customarily docked, Temperament The Clumber Spaniel is handsome and useful; a true aristocrat of long descent. They are considered to be a rare breed that is typically difficult to obtain. This slow moving and stocky breed are sedate, affectionate, and make an excellent companion. An eager, affectionate, and intelligent dog, the Clumber Spaniel is a dog that loves to please his owners and will prove to be a loyal and responsive pet. The Clumber Spaniel is dedicated and friendly, and this breed gets along well with children even though they may not have been brought up with them. The Clumber Spaniel loves to play and can sometimes be quite animated, and even clownish about the way that he acts. The Clumber Spaniel has plenty of stamina and is a dog that likes to get on with his work rather than wasting time messing around. A dignified and enthusiastic breed, the Clumber Spaniel makes a great family pet, and gets on very well with children as well as with other pets and animals. The Clumber Spaniel will also get along with strangers, but his friendly disposition means that he is not the most effective of watchdogs. They typically become attached to one specific person in their family. A very gentle dog, this long and low-to-the-ground heavy dog cannot handle any harsh criticism, or physical abuse. Grooming The Clumber Spaniel is a high shedder, which means that he is not ideal for allergy sufferers. You will need to comb and brush his coat around three or four times a week to keep it looking good, and you should also check and lean his ear canals to reduce the chances of infection. You may need to trim some of the hairs when they become stray and straggly. Their eyes and ears need to be cleaned on a consistent basis. Health Problems and Life Expectancy The Clumber Spaniel has a life expectancy of around 10 years, which is relatively short compared to many other breeds. There are a number of health problems and disorders that are linked to this breed, and this includes cataracts, HD, entropion, ectroption, and spinal problems. Dog Diseases Activity Level Clumber Spaniels are equally suited for apartment or residential dwellings. They require daily exercise such as brisk walks, being bicycling companions, chasing a ball, or swimming. Failure to provide sufficient exercise will cause this breed to become overweight, have muscle atrophy, and shorten their life span.