Dog Breeds - Clumber Spaniel

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of an affectionate nature that a breed is expected to possess towards family members or other familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, whereas others treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The degree of tolerance and patience a breed demonstrates towards children and their overall family-friendly nature may vary. It is important to supervise dogs around young children, as well as children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to always supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, some breeds are naturally more predisposed to getting along with other dogs, both in a home environment and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing are more likely to trigger specific allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the shedding.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks can vary among different breeds. It is important to consider your available time, patience, and budget for such care when choosing a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure their well-being.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency for a breed to drool can vary. If you prefer a clean and tidy environment, breeds that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes may not be the best choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Wavy, Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers can differ. Certain breeds may be reserved or cautious around strangers regardless of the setting, while others will happily greet new humans whenever they come across them.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds even beyond their puppyhood years. Some breeds will continue to enjoy games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adulthood, while others may prefer to relax on the couch with their owners most of the time. It's important to consider the breed's energy level and playfulness when choosing a dog that matches your own preferences for playtime.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some breeds have a predisposition to alert their owners when strangers are in the vicinity. They are more likely to react to potential threats, whether it's the presence of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, these breeds are often capable of becoming friendly towards strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The ability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are more adaptable and can easily adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedule, and other variations in day-to-day life. However, some breeds may be more sensitive or require more time to acclimate to changes. It's important to consider the breed's temperament and adaptability when evaluating how well they handle different circumstances.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are generally easier to train. They are often more willing to learn new commands and behaviors. On the other hand, some breeds may have a more independent or stubborn nature making training more challenging. These breeds may be more inclined to do things on their own terms. Understanding a breed's typical trainability and motivation can help you determine the best approach to training and managing your dog's behavior.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires can vary greatly. High-energy breeds tend to be always ready for their next adventure and enjoy activities like running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. They require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a laid-back lifestyle. They are often happy to relax, lounge around, and snooze for most of the day, requiring less exercise and mental stimulation. It's crucial to match a breed's energy level and exercise needs with your own lifestyle and ability to provide the necessary physical and mental outlets for your dog.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are more prone to barking and may vocalize frequently alerting their owners to the presence of passers-by or reacting to various stimuli like birds or noises. On the other hand, some breeds are more reserved in their vocalizations and will only bark in specific situations. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds can still communicate through other sounds or vocalizations to express themselves. It's important to consider your own tolerance for barking and the specific needs and tendencies of the breed when making a choice that aligns with your preferences.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, or other qualities, typically have higher mental exercise needs. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may seek their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with your desired projects or behaviors.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of an affectionate nature that a breed is expected to possess towards family members or other familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, whereas others treat everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The degree of tolerance and patience a breed demonstrates towards children and their overall family-friendly nature may vary. It is important to supervise dogs around young children, as well as children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to always supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, some breeds are naturally more predisposed to getting along with other dogs, both in a home environment and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing are more likely to trigger specific allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the shedding.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks can vary among different breeds. It is important to consider your available time, patience, and budget for such care when choosing a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure their well-being.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency for a breed to drool can vary. If you prefer a clean and tidy environment, breeds that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes may not be the best choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wavy, Silky

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers can differ. Certain breeds may be reserved or cautious around strangers regardless of the setting, while others will happily greet new humans whenever they come across them.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds even beyond their puppyhood years. Some breeds will continue to enjoy games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adulthood, while others may prefer to relax on the couch with their owners most of the time. It's important to consider the breed's energy level and playfulness when choosing a dog that matches your own preferences for playtime.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Some breeds have a predisposition to alert their owners when strangers are in the vicinity. They are more likely to react to potential threats, whether it's the presence of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, these breeds are often capable of becoming friendly towards strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The ability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are more adaptable and can easily adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedule, and other variations in day-to-day life. However, some breeds may be more sensitive or require more time to acclimate to changes. It's important to consider the breed's temperament and adaptability when evaluating how well they handle different circumstances.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are generally easier to train. They are often more willing to learn new commands and behaviors. On the other hand, some breeds may have a more independent or stubborn nature making training more challenging. These breeds may be more inclined to do things on their own terms. Understanding a breed's typical trainability and motivation can help you determine the best approach to training and managing your dog's behavior.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires can vary greatly. High-energy breeds tend to be always ready for their next adventure and enjoy activities like running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. They require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a laid-back lifestyle. They are often happy to relax, lounge around, and snooze for most of the day, requiring less exercise and mental stimulation. It's crucial to match a breed's energy level and exercise needs with your own lifestyle and ability to provide the necessary physical and mental outlets for your dog.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, or other qualities, typically have higher mental exercise needs. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may seek their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with your desired projects or behaviors.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
White	199

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Lemon Markings	063
Orange Markings	102

About The Breed

The Clumber Spaniel is a dignified and mellow hunting companion known for its association with royalty. It is the largest of the AKC flushing spaniels. Despite some shedding and drooling, this breed makes for a friendly and amusing best friend and can be a gentlemanly housemate.

Clumber Spaniels are robust bird dogs with a sturdy build, heavy bone structure and a massive head. They typically stand between 17 to 20 inches and can weigh anywhere from 55 to 85 pounds. Designed for maneuvering through dense cover, their movement is still graceful and effortless.

Their dense coat is primarily white with occasional lemon or orange markings. Clumbers are generally calm and easygoing at hom but their outdoor nature shines through as they show great determination when following scents. They are intelligent dogs that respond well to training. While slightly wary around strangers, they are ultimately friendly and tend to bark only when there is something important to communicate. As watchdogs, they may not excel but they make up for it with their loving and playful nature.

Clumber Spaniels enjoy activities such as swimming and fetching and tend to make excellent playmates for children due to their sturdy nature.

What to Expect When Caring for a CLUMBER SPANIEL

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs, as sentient beings, require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health, emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Clumber Spaniel: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Clumber Spaniels are generally considered a healthy breed but like many others, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Hypothyroidism is occasionally seen in Clumbers, which can lead to skin and ear problems. Entropion or ectropion, where the eyelids turn inward or outward respectively is also a condition that can affect some individuals. Rapid growth in Clumber Spaniel puppies, as with many large breeds can lead to a condition called eosinophilic panosteitis, which typically resolves as they mature. Hip dysplasia, a developmental condition in the hip joint can also occur in the breed. Due to their longer body structure, Clumbers are somewhat predisposed to intervertebral disc disease affecting the cervical and thoracic regions of the spine. Additionally, immune-mediated hemolytic anemia has been observed in some Clumbers making it important for them to avoid treatments involving sulfa drugs. While these health conditions may be seen in the breed, it's worth noting that responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care can help mitigate risks and promote the overall health and well-being of Clumber Spaniels. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Hip Evaluation Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Phosphatase 1 Deficiency (PDP1) - DNA Test Elbow Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Due to their heavy, low-set ears, it is essential to routinely clean the ears of Clumber Spaniels to prevent ear infections. Regular attention should also be given to the folds on their head by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. These wrinkles should be kept dry to avoid the development of yeast infections, which can cause unpleasant odors and discomfort for the dog. Regular nail trims, typically on a monthly basis are necessary to keep the nails short. Bathing is generally recommended once a month for Clumbers who are not regularly working in the field. In terms of coat maintenance, Clumbers have a relatively easy-care coat. Regular grooming with a brush and a medium comb once or twice a week is usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. They generally do not require extensive trimming. By following these grooming and care practices, Clumber Spaniels can maintain good hygiene and overall well-being. It's important to establish a routine and attend to their specific grooming needs to keep them comfortable and healthy.

Exercise

	Despite their seemingly cumbersome appearance, the Clumber breed of dogs possesses remarkable energy levels. They greatly benefit from engaging in long walks and occasionally pausing to explore their surroundings. Clumbers truly enjoy the act of retrieving, thereby acquiring ample exercise opportunities right within their own backyard. This includes enthusiastically chasing a tennis ball and relishing quality time with their owner.

Training

	The Clumber retriever possesses qualities of stability, dependability, carefulness, and persistence. These attributes can pose some difficulty in training since they have a tendency to pause and carefully consider before carrying out tasks. To maintain their focus on learning rather than looking for alternative amusement, it is important to make training sessions engaging. Providing a purpose or motivation for them to obey commands will usually be necessary. It's worth noting that they do not respond favorably to forceful training methods.

Nutrition

	Preventing an unhealthy weight gain is crucial for Clumber retrievers due to the added strain it puts on their sturdy physique. It is recommended to provide them with high-quality dog food that matches their age, whether they are puppies, adults, or seniors. Such food should contain all the necessary nutrients for the breed. In case your veterinarian suggests that your dog is gaining excess weight, a low-calorie dog food might be necessary. It's important to moderate the use of treats during training, as Clumbers have a strong food drive. It is vital to avoid feeding them cooked bones or fatty human food.

Historiography

The early history of Clumber retrievers is often shrouded in myths and unreliable information leaving researchers with a tangled web of uncertainty. However, a clearer and more reliable trail begins in the late 1700s in Nottinghamshire, England. It was there that the Duke of Newcastle and his gamekeeper perfected a robust spaniel breed naming it after the duke's expansive estate Clumber Park.

Clumber retrievers quickly gained popularity among the titled families and landed gentry in the area particularly those involved in gamebird hunting. Throughout the years, the breed also found favor with British royalty, including Edward VII and George V, the latter being a notable Clumber breeder. Supporters of the breed describe them as mischievous, stubborn, affectionate, and entertaining. Yet, amidst these qualities, Clumbers exude a regal dignity, befitting their association with crowned heads.