Clumber Spaniel

Breed Characteristics

Aristocratic. Rather slow. Moderate energy level. Very low watchdog or protection ability or interest (not a barker). The Clumber Spaniel has good memory, and is willing to please. However, they can become a little wilful with passive owners. Possesses an acute sense of smell, probably the best of all sporting dogs. Clumber Spaniels like to chew.

Is the Clumber Spaniel allowed as a pet in a Singapore HDB flat?

No

Origin

England, 1700s. The Clumber Spaniel’s early history is not well documented, it is suggested that it originated in 18th century France around 1768 by one of the Dukes of Noailles. Threatened by the French Revolution, he transferred his dogs to England, close to his family, the Duke of Newcastle. It is assumed that the Clumber Spaniel was perfected at the Duke of Newcastle’s home of Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire. Several British monarchs favoured the Clumber, including Prince Albert, King Edward VII and his son, King George V.

Original Purpose

Bird flushing and retrieving.

Behaviour and Temperament

Easy-going, friendly, calm, gentle, laid-back, dependable.

What are some Physical Features of the Clumber Spaniel?

43 to 51 cm; 22.5 to 36.5 kg. Colours are mostly white with orange or lemon markings.

Coat Type and Recommended Grooming

Soft, wavy, silky. High maintenance; needs daily thorough brushing. Professional grooming is desirable; needs trimming about twice a month. The ears and eyes need to be cleaned and checked frequently. If there is too much hair under the ears, clip it before the next overall trim. Clumbers are heavy shedders.

Life Expectancy of the Clumber Spaniel

The life expectancy of the Clumber Spaniel is between 10 and 12 years.

Have a Clumber Spaniel?

Health Concerns

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, cataracts, entropion, hip dysplasia. Some Clumber Spaniels may snore, wheeze and drool.

Exercise Needs

High for juveniles, moderate for adults; Clumbers grow very quickly and are extremely active during juvenile stage. They slow down considerably when they mature and require less vigorous exercise. Enjoys retrieving from water. Daily walks are required to satisfy their instinct to walk. The Clumber Spaniel is a good swimmer.

Housing

Enjoys being outside so much that he is not suitable for urban life. Adaption to apartment life takes a struggle even with sufficient exercise. Prefers cooler weather.

Sociability

Very well adapted to family life but may select one person for special attention. Excellent with children and strangers; never aggressive. Friendly with other pets if they are raised with them.

Trainability

High; Training the Clumber Spaniel can be rewarding, however, it does not respond well to harsh discipline.

Recommended Activities

Therapy dog, bird flushing, tracking, hunting.