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Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is a large-boned sporting breed that is know for his eagerness to please. They have a long history as a successful hunter and good family pet.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Clumber Spaniel
Physical Characteristics
- The chest is broad and deep
- Broad, square head, wide across the top with a nose that comes in all shades of brown
- Eyes are dark amber and deep set, with a soft expression
- Ears are triangular, hang forward, and are covered with hair
- Coat: Thick, straight, soft hair in white with lemon or orange markings
- Height: 17-20 inches
- Weight: 55-85 pounds
- Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Temperament
- Gentle, sweet, pleasant, playful, loyal, affectionate, very smart, well-behaved
- Interaction with people: Good with children; aloof of strangers
- Interaction with animals: Good with other pets if raised with them
- Training: Easily trained; needs to be treated gently due to sensitive nature
Medical Conditions
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Eosinophilic panosteitis (found in growing puppies)
- Ophthalmic disorders (including entropion and cataracts)
- Otitis externa (ear infections)
- Pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency (condition effecting activity level)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments if sufficiently exercised
- Needs small yard
- Needs long daily walks
- Prefers cool climates
- Extremely active as puppies; slow down considerably as adults
Grooming
- Heavy shedder
- Groom coat two to three times weekly with a brush and comb
- Ears and eyes need to be cleaned and inspected regularly
- Clip hair under ears
Other Facts
- First registered with the American Kennel Club in 1878
- Rare; largely unknown to the public
- Used to hunt pheasant and partridge, both in small packs and alone, and is especially well-suited for work in dense undergrowth
- Believed to be one of the earliest spaniels used in heavy cover; generally hunts mute and can get very close to the game
Breed History
- Exact origin unknown; one theory holds that it was bred in England from the Alpine Spaniel and Basset Hound
- Dating from the late 1800s, it's one of the oldest spaniels
- The breed's name comes from the Duke of Newclastle's 3,800 acre estate Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, England
- Successfully presented at its first show in the 19th century in England
- Several British monarchs have favored the Clumber, including Prince Albert (Queen Victoria's consort), King Edward VII and his son, King George V
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Clumber Spaniel Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit
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