Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel originated in France and England in the 18th century. Bred as a gundog for flushing and retrieving game in heavy cover, the breed is named after Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, England, where the Duke of Newcastle helped develop it. Clumbers were prized by nobility, including Prince Albert and King Edward VII, for their steady pace and scenting ability. They were first imported to North America in the mid-19th century and remain a rare but cherished breed.

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The Clumber Spaniel is the largest of the spaniels, with a rectangular build and expressive face.

• Weight: 55–85 lb (25–38 kg)
• Height: 17–20 in (43–51 cm)
• Coat Type: Dense, straight, medium-length double coat
• Coat Colors: White base with lemon or orange markings
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Heavy bone, broad head, deep chest, pendant ears, soulful amber eyes, lumbering gait

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Clumber Spaniels require moderate but consistent grooming.

• Brushing: 2–3× per week to control shedding and prevent tangles
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed
• Ears: Clean weekly (prone to ear infections)
• Nails: Trim every 2–3 weeks
• Teeth: Brush 2–3× per week
• Seasonal Shedding: Moderate year-round; heavier in spring/fall

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Though calm indoors, Clumber Spaniels need daily activity to stay fit.

• Daily Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Activities: Walks, scent games, light hiking, swimming, retrieving
• Suitability: Best in homes with yards but adaptable to apartments if exercised daily
• Energy Level: Low to moderate (less hyper than other spaniels)

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Clumbers are intelligent but can be a bit stubborn. Use patience and consistency.

• Method: Positive reinforcement—treats and praise
• Focus Areas: Recall, leash walking, house manners (they can be food-driven)
• Puppy Stage: Early socialization to prevent shyness
• Special Note: Responds best to gentle, encouraging training; harsh methods will shut them down

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This breed tends to gain weight easily—feed carefully.

• Food Type: High-quality kibble or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: 2–3 cups/day, split into two meals (adjust for size/activity)
• Diet Advice: Monitor weight closely; avoid free feeding; add joint-support supplements like glucosamine

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As a rare breed, it’s important to seek responsible sources.

• Breeders: Look for CKC/AKC-registered breeders providing hip/elbow/eye clearances
• Adoption: Contact spaniel breed rescues or sporting-dog rescue organizations in Canada/US
• Canadian Resources: CKC breeder directory; Clumber Spaniel Club of Canada

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Clumber Spaniels are generally healthy but prone to certain conditions.

• Orthopedic: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
• Other Issues: Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), ear infections, obesity
• Eye Conditions: Entropion, ectropion, cataracts
• Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
• Recommended Testing: Hips, elbows, eyes, heart

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Are Clumber Spaniels good apartment dogs?
Yes, they can adapt to apartments if exercised daily, but their size makes houses preferable.

Do Clumber Spaniels shed?
Yes, moderately, with heavier seasonal shedding.

Are Clumber Spaniels hypoallergenic?
No.

How much exercise does a Clumber Spaniel need?
About 45–60 minutes daily, including walks and scent games.

Are Clumber Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes—gentle, affectionate, and tolerant with children.

Do Clumber Spaniels bark a lot?
Not excessively; usually only to alert.

How are Clumber Spaniels different from other spaniels?
They’re heavier, calmer, and more deliberate in pace compared to energetic Cocker or Springer Spaniels.

What health tests should breeders do?
Hips, elbows, eyes, and cardiac screening.

Do Clumber Spaniels drool?
Mildly, especially around mealtimes.

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