Clumber Spaniel

Purpose

bird flushing

retrieving

Breed Type : Pure Breeds

Breed Size: Large

The Clumber Spaniel, which emerged in the 1700s, is celebrated as one of the oldest and sturdiest breeds within the Spaniel family. Its ancestry is believed to include the Alpine Spaniel, Basset Hound, and Saint Bernard. These dogs typically have a medium height but are characterized by their solid build. Renowned for their gentle and affectionate temperament, Clumber Spaniels often exhibit a playful and somewhat goofy personality. Although they may drool and shed, their intelligence and eagerness to learn make them delightful companions. Commonly known as the "retired gentleman’s Spaniel," they also excel as hunters. While they are generally easy to house train, it’s important not to leave them alone for long periods, as they can become bored and might chew on household items. With their short legs, large heads, and unique stature, Clumber Spaniels have a striking appearance.

Breed Origin

A fascinating story about the Clumber Spaniel traces back to the time of the French Revolution, when the Duc de Noailles is said to have sent his cherished Spaniels to the Duke of Newcastle in England for their safety. While concrete evidence for this account is limited, a painting from 1788 shows the Duke with several lemon and white dogs that closely resemble today’s Clumber Spaniel. The breed takes its name from Clumber Park, the Duke of Newcastle’s estate in Nottingham, England, where it was initially known as the Clumber Park Spaniel. The breed gained popularity among notable figures, including Prince Edward of Wales, who kept them at Sandringham House, as well as other royal admirers like Prince Albert, King Edward VII, and his son, King George V. The Clumber Spaniel made its first appearance in North America in 1844, when British officer Lieutenant Venables brought the breed to his post in Nova Scotia, Canada. The American Kennel Club recognized its first Clumber Spaniel in 1878, making it one of the first nine breeds acknowledged by the organization. Today, the Clumber Spaniel is regarded as a rare breed, ranking 122nd out of 155 breeds registered with the AKC and classified as a sporting dog.

Breed Appearance

The Clumber Spaniel is a large breed known for its sturdy build and substantial paws. This dog typically boasts a predominantly white coat, accented with lemon or orange markings. Renowned for its agility, the Clumber Spaniel features a double coat: a dense undercoat complemented by a weather-resistant outer layer. Its fur is straight and flat, with feathering noticeable around the chest, legs, tail, and ears. The ears hang down naturally, and the eyes often have a slightly droopy look. A distinctive frill encircles the neck, while the markings are mainly found on the ears and face. The feathered coat is usually soft, thick, and straight, with lemon being the preferred marking on the white base, though orange markings are also acceptable. The breed's size and shape allow it to move easily through grass and brush, making it particularly adept at flushing out pheasants and partridges.

Care Routine

The Clumber Spaniel requires regular grooming to keep its coat in good condition. It is recommended to brush them two to three times weekly, and occasional trims may be needed. Additionally, it's crucial to regularly clean their ears and eyes, as these areas need extra attention. Clumber Spaniels are known for their heavy shedding and tendency to drool. While they can adapt to living in an apartment, they need a minimum of twenty minutes of exercise daily and have a fondness for swimming. They are generally straightforward to house train, but crate training is advisable for times when you are not home. Although Clumbers can be quite playful and may find mischief even after their puppy stage, they typically become less energetic as they age.

Behavior & Temperament

The Clumber Spaniel is known for its gentle nature, affectionate personality, intelligence, and overall amiable character. These dogs are typically relaxed and loving, although they tend to become less energetic as they grow older. They usually get along well with children and other animals, especially if they have been raised in the same environment. Early socialization is crucial for their development. While they are generally not dominant, they may try to take charge if they sense their owner is passive. Clumber Spaniels are recognized for their friendly and easygoing demeanor; they are playful and dependable, and they rarely bark. They flourish under the care of a calm and consistent owner who maintains discipline. Their desire to please and good memory make them fairly easy to train. However, they do have a tendency to chew, so providing appropriate chew toys is essential. Additionally, Clumber Spaniels enjoy hunting pheasants and partridges and are skilled water dogs.

Play & Exercise

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

2.8 Cups

Daily Activity

60 Minutes

Average Lifespan

11 Years

Origin

1700s

Type

Pure Breeds

Size

Large

Origin Country

England

Brush Frequency

Weekly

Coat Texture

Straight

Register

Your kids have been begging for a pet forever, and you've recently decided that it's time for your family to get a new addition -- a dog! While everyone is excited for the new arrival, you're wondering if you need to have a dog license. How much does it cost? Is it required? Where do you get one?