Spaniel (Clumber)

Origins and History

The Clumber Spaniel originated in England in the mid‑18th century. Bred by the Duke of Newcastle (the "Clumber" estate), it was developed from large, heavy‑set spaniels such as the Basset Hound, the Sussex Spaniel and the English Water Spaniel. The breed was initially used as a heavy‑set gun dog for flushing and retrieving game in dense cover and for driving waterfowl. By the late 1800s the Clumber had become a popular show dog in Britain and was admitted to the Kennel Club in 1885. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1886.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: compact, powerful, low‑set body with a broad skull and deep chest.
• Temperament highlights: gentle, affectionate, calm, and good with families; can be independent and occasionally stubborn.
• Primary breed purpose: originally a gun dog for flushing and retrieving; today primarily a companion and show breed.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 18‑20 inches (45‑50 cm); Females 17‑19 inches (43‑48 cm) at the withers.
• Weight: Typically 55‑85 lb (25‑38 kg), proportionate to height and bone structure.

Coat and Color

• Texture and length: dense, straight, medium‑length coat with a soft undercoat; feathering on ears, chest, legs and tail.
• Accepted colors and patterns: pure white base with lemon or orange markings; markings may appear on the head, ears, chest, legs, and tail tip. No other colors are permitted in the standard.

Temperament Considerations

Clumber Spaniels are naturally gentle and enjoy human companionship, which makes them eager to please but also prone to occasional independence. Their calm disposition means they are not high‑energy performers, so training should focus on motivation through positive reinforcement rather than force.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: early exposure to people, children, other dogs, and varied environments to prevent shyness.
• Exercise needs: moderate daily walks (30‑45 minutes) and occasional play sessions; avoid excessive high‑impact activity.
• Common training challenges: stubbornness, a tendency to become bored, and a preference for comfort over exertion; keep sessions short and rewarding.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush and a metal comb to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing requirements: bathe as needed, typically every 6‑8 weeks or when the coat becomes dirty; use a mild dog shampoo to preserve natural oils.
• Nail and dental care: trim nails weekly or as needed; brush teeth several times a week and provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: start a thorough brushing regimen 2‑3 weeks before the show, schedule a professional hand‑strip or trim 5‑7 days prior, and bathe 24‑48 hours before the ring to allow the coat to dry completely.
• Ring presentation tips: ensure the coat is clean, well‑conditioned, and free of debris; present the dog in a calm, balanced stance with a relaxed head carriage; keep ears trimmed to the standard length and free of excess hair.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia – screen with OFA or Penn‑HIP radiographs.
• Eye disorders such as cataract and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – annual CERF examinations recommended.
• Von Willebrand disease – DNA testing available; informs breeding decisions.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood panel screening for thyroid hormone levels.
• Ear infections – due to floppy ears; regular ear cleaning is essential.
• Skin fold infections – keep folds clean and dry to prevent dermatitis.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: moderate daily activity; avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.
• Nutritional needs: balanced diet appropriate for a medium‑large breed; monitor weight to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues.
• Lifespan considerations: average lifespan 10‑12 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and preventive health screening help maintain longevity.