Let's talk Clumber Spaniels
Although an active breed, the Clumber Spaniel moves at a slow pace, with an easygoing temperament that is well-suited to first-time dog owners. There’s much more to this sturdy dog than first meets the eye. A playful companion to children, once trained, the Clumber Spaniel also makes for a calm presence around the house and a loyal walking companion. While they are capable of adapting to apartment life, the Clumber Spaniel’s hunting heritage means that they would much rather be outdoors most of the time.Official name: Clumber Spaniel
Origins: England
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level: |  |
Suited to apartment living? | |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | Low | Family pet? * |
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| Compatibility with other pets: | |
Can stay alone? * | |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 - 15 months |
| Adult age: | 15 months to 5 years |
| Mature age: | 5-8 years |
| Senior age: | From 8 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Clumber Spaniels
1. Mouth always full
One trait that the Clumber Spaniel picks up as a puppy and never lets go of, is the habit of carrying objects around in their mouth. It is likely to be their favourite toy of the month. Rather a harmless habit and totally endearing.
2. Keeps a distance
While the Clumber Spaniel is openly affectionate towards their family, they tend to keep a safe distance with other humans. There is no malice or aggression behind this—the Clumber Spaniel simply likes to save their energy for their favourite humans (i.e. you). Of course, it is possible to meet a Clumber Spaniel who is friendly to anyone and everyone, but this is more rare.
History of the breed
Some like to make a French connection for the Clumber Spaniel. One popular theory involves the French Duc de Noailles shipping all of his spaniels to the Duke of Newcastle in England, to protect them during the French Revolution.
It’s a lovely tale but there’s painted evidence of the Duke standing with dogs bearing a close resemblance to the Clumber Spaniel, which predates the French Revolution.
The Duke of Newcastle lived in Clumber Park, so it is pretty clear how this particular spaniel came by its name! Not just a firm favourite of noble hunters, the Clumber Spaniel was also admired by the English aristocracy and royalty. Prince Albert (husband of Queen Victoria) was a rumoured fan of the breed.
Clumber Spaniels were first introduced to America in 1844 by a British officer, Lieutenant Venables. The American Kennel Association then registered them in 1878, but today the Clumber Spaniel is sadly a rare breed, both in the US and on home soil.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Clumber Spaniels
1. Eyes
Dark eyes that are deep set for a gentle expression.
2. Coat
A thick coat, mostly white in colour with lemon or orange markings.
3. Body
The body is powerful, muscular and robust.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Clumber Spaniel
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Caring for your Clumber Spaniel
Grooming, training and exercise tips
The Clumber Spaniel requires some attention when it comes to grooming. They are heavy shedders so daily brushing is a must. Keep bacterial infections at bay with a weekly clean of their skin folds and ears, making sure to pat them dry. And of course, trim nails and clean teeth regularly. They may move at a slow pace, but Clumber Spaniels are an active breed that require daily exercise – at least 30 minutes per day – with additional play sessions. Jogging is out of this breed’s comfort zone and is best avoided as it will put extra pressure on the joints. However, the Clumber Spaniel is a capable swimmer, and a tireless playmate when it comes to chasing after a ball. Formerly bred to be hunting dogs, the Clumber Spaniel has a good work ethic. Combined with their intelligence, this should make training your Clumber Spaniel a straightforward process. Any food treats given as rewards during training sessions should be counted as part of their daily kibble.
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All about Clumber Spaniels
The Clumber Spaniel is indeed a rare breed, even in their native country, and has been assigned “vulnerable native breed” status by the The Kennel Club. There’s no clear explanation for the breed’s low numbers, but if you have your heart set on a Clumber Spaniel, you may have to wait—or actually find one.
This is a breed that sheds heavily, with daily brushing a necessity to keep their coat healthy and your furniture free of fur. Invest in grooming tools and be at peace with the fact that you will still find your Clumber Spaniel’s hair around the house.
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/