Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel - Breed Profile:

Origin: Uncertain, believed to be France or England
Colors: White with lemon or orange markings
Size: Large
Type of Owner: Novice
Exercise: Regular
Grooming: Little
Trainability: May be a bit difficult to train
Combativeness: Friendly with other dogs
Dominance: Moderate
Noise: Not a barker

Physical characteristics

The Clumber Spaniel is a low massive dog with a deep chest, straight forelegs, powerful hindquarters, and very good boning. The body is slightly longer than tall. The broad head is square-shaped and massive, with a distinct stop. The eye brows are heavy, and the occiput is well-pronounced. The large nose can be brown, beige, rose and cherry in colour. A scissor bite is preferred. The loin is arched slightly. The topline is level. The tail is often docked in the United States, although it is not permitted in England and Scandinavia. The ears are thick-leathered, triangular, and pendent; they are broad at the base with a rounded lower edge. The gait is easy and free.
In spite of their relatively small height (17 to 20 inches), Clumbers are heavy dogs that weigh 55 to 85 pounds.

Temperament

Clumber Spaniels are well-behaved, gentle, loyal, quiet and steady. Very affectionate and playful, especially when young. Love to fetch. Good companions for people who like frequent walks. Mature dogs can be somewhat sedentary. This breed can become a bit wilful if it doesn't recognize the owner as a pack leader. Obedient and submissive individuals are usually easy to train as they have good memory and like to do things to please their master. Clumbers get along well with other dogs and cats, as well as other household animals, if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Trustworthy with children and can make good baby-sitters. Proper socialization is necessary to avoid timidity. Make sure you have provided the dog with good chew toys.

Coat and grooming

The coat is soft, dense and straight, with a weather-resistant texture. Moderate feathering is present on the belly, legs, ears and tail. Regular grooming is necessary to keep the hair in good condition.

Photo by Philip Watts

Clumber Spaniels come in predominantly white colour with lemon or orange markings. The front legs and muzzle are often covered with freckles.

Health

Clumber Spaniels are prone to entropion, cataracts, panosteitis (juvenile lameness), hip dysplasia and dry eyes. The ears and eyes need to be cleaned and checked on a regular basis. Other health concerns include skin and flea allergies. Do not overfeed these dogs as they gain weight easily. Tend to snore, wheeze and drool. Known for swallowing foreign objects. Although the Clumber can do well in most climates, the breed feels more comfortable in cool weather because of its dense coat. The lifespan is 12 to 15 years.

Other interesting facts

The breed's history is uncertain before the middle of the 19th century. Some believe it originated in France, while others think the breed was developed in England from older breeds of hunting spaniels, perhaps by crossing them with Basset Hounds, Saint Bernards, or the extinct Alpine Spaniel.