Clumber Spaniel Breed Profile: Essential Facts
These are loving, playful dogs who don't bark much.
Clumber Spaniel
- AKC Group: Sporting
- Weight: 55–85 lbs.
- Height: 17–20 in.
- Life Span: 10–12 years
Don't Guess When It Comes To Your Pet's Care
Sign up for expert-backed reviews and safety alerts all in one place.
Key Characteristics of Clumber Spaniels
Clumber Spaniels are long, low dogs whose bodies are rectangular in shape.
They have large, square noses that are brown with shades of beige, rose and cherry. The large eyes are dark amber, and the ears are triangular and thick with rounded tips. The tail is feathered and carried level with the body.
The coat is weather-resistant, dense and straight. The main coat color is white, with possible lemon or orange markings.
Where Clumber Spaniels Came From
The breed originated in France and has Basset Hounds and Alpine Spaniels in its ancestry.
However, according to Dr. Ross D. Clark, DVM, author of Medical, Genetic & Behavioral Risk Factors of Clumber Spaniels and Sussex Spaniels, another theory is that the Clumber Spaniel descended from the Blenheim Spaniel.
The breed's origin is unknown, but records indicate the dogs were present in several countries during the early to mid-1800s.
During the French Revolution, it is believed the Duke of Noailles moved his spaniels from France to England for safety. The dogs were housed in kennels in Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire.
Clumber Spaniels appeared in North America in 1844. They were exhibited in England in 1859, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) added the breed to its registry in 1878.
How Friendly Are Clumber Spaniels?
Intelligent and easy to train, Clumbers make great family dogs.
They are playful and affectionate with other pets and children -- more so if they were raised with them.
They can be sensitive to harsh discipline, so positive-reinforcement methods are recommended.
Most Clumbers enjoy hunting, retrieving and playing in water, although it's smart to test out that last activity in shallow waters, as this may not be true for all.
They don't bark often. When they do, it's usually to communicate something important.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
MEDIUM: Clumber Spaniels generally enjoy walks, swimming and playing fetch. Although they're pretty active, they move at a slower, more casual pace than most other dog breeds, so they're not ideal jogging partners.
They thrive in apartment situations as long as they're given opportunities for exercise and play.
Grooming Needs
MEDIUM: Shedding is moderate to heavy. Though lovable and cuddly, Clumber Spaniels tend to slobber and drool.
Brush the coat a few times per week, and trim the excess hair from the ears, feet and between the paw pads as needed. Clean the ears once per week at minimum -- the breed is susceptible to ear infections.
Health Problems
HIGH: Unfortunately, Clumber Spaniels are prone to several health problems: Hip dysplasia Ear infections Entropion (inward rolling of the eyelid) Ectropion (outward rolling of the eyelid) Eosinophilic panosteitis (leg lameness) Cataracts Progressive retinal atrophy (rare)
- Pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency (causes difficulty when walking)
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Cervical and thoracic disc problems
- Hypothyroidism
- Portosystemic shunts (liver)
- Cardiomyopathy
- Anasarca (puppies are born swollen and are usually stillborn)
The video below provides more info on Clumber Spaniels:
Where to Adopt a Clumber Spaniel
If you can't find a Clumber Spaniel through shelters and rescues, you may need to contact a reputable breeder. Be sure that the breeder is not operating a puppy mill -- look for the red flags. And, as always, ask for a copy of the dog's health clearances.
Related Dog Breed Profiles You May Like
- Border Collie Puppies Breed Profile: Essential Facts
- Dogo Argentino Breed Profile: Essential Facts
- Dogue de Bordeaux Breed Profile: Essential Facts
- Drever Breed Profile: Essential Facts
- Dutch Shepherd Breed Profile: Essential Facts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Clumber Spaniels are relatively low-energy compared to other spaniel breeds. They enjoy walks and playtime but are generally more laid-back and prefer a relaxed lifestyle.
Yes, Clumber Spaniels are known to drool, especially after eating or drinking. Their loose lips contribute to excess saliva production.
A Clumber Spaniel puppy typically costs between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on the breeder, lineage, and location.
Clumber Spaniels are rare due to their small breeding population, lower demand compared to other spaniels, and slow reproduction rates, as they often have smaller litters.
Additional Resources
- AKC's Clumber Spaniel Page
- The Clumber Spaniel Club of America
- Clumber Spaniel Club (UK)
- Clumbers in Need Clumber Spaniel Rescue
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
Comments
Don't Guess When It Comes To Your Pet's Care
Sign up for expert-backed reviews and safety alerts all in one place.