Clumber Spaniel
Your Complete Guide to the Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniel History: An Aristocrat of the Hunt
The Clumber Spaniel has a noble and somewhat debated history, believed to have originated in France before being further developed in England in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Legend suggests that the Duc de Noailles of France, fearing for his prized spaniels during the French Revolution, shipped his kennel to the Duke of Newcastle at Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, England, from which the breed takes its name. These dogs were then carefully bred and maintained by the gamekeepers at Clumber Park and other aristocratic estates.
Clumber Spaniels were specifically developed for hunting game birds, particularly pheasant and partridge, in dense undergrowth. Unlike faster spaniels, Clumbers work at a more deliberate, steady pace, allowing hunters on foot to keep up. They are known for their excellent noses and their ability to flush and retrieve game. The breed was highly favored by British royalty and nobility, including Prince Albert (consort to Queen Victoria), King Edward VII, and King George V. The Clumber Spaniel was one of the first nine breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club upon its founding in 1884, highlighting its established status.
Clumber Spaniel Temperament: Gentle, Dignified, and Devotedly Loyal
The Clumber Spaniel is known for its gentle, dignified, and somewhat serious temperament, though they also have a playful and affectionate side with their families. They are typically calm and thoughtful dogs, not prone to excessive excitability, but they possess a determined and persistent nature when engaged in a task or following a scent. Clumbers are deeply loyal and form strong bonds with their people, thriving on companionship and being part of the family circle.
While generally friendly, they can be reserved or aloof with strangers, a trait that makes them decent watchdogs. They are not typically aggressive but will observe new people with a quiet dignity. Clumbers are usually good with children they have been raised with, known for their patience, but their substantial size means interactions should be supervised. They can get along with other dogs and pets, especially if socialized from a young age. Their intelligence is often paired with a stubborn streak, requiring patient and consistent training.
Grooming Your Clumber Spaniel: Managing a Dense, Feathered Coat
The Clumber Spaniel has a dense, straight, flat, and weather-resistant double coat with characteristic feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and legs. Their coat is predominantly white, with lemon or orange markings typically found on the head, ears, and sometimes as small patches on the body.
This beautiful coat requires regular grooming to keep it clean, healthy, and free from tangles and mats, especially in the feathered areas. Brushing two to three times a week with a slicker brush, pin brush, and a comb is recommended. Clumber Spaniels are moderate to heavy shedders, and regular brushing will help manage loose hair. Occasional trimming, particularly around the feet, ears, and under the tail, can help maintain a neat appearance. Baths should be given as needed. Their long, pendulous ears are prone to infections and must be checked and cleaned regularly. They are also known for drooling, so their facial furnishings may need frequent wiping. Routine nail trims and dental care are essential.
Clumber Spaniel Exercise: Moderate Activity for a Substantial Dog
Clumber Spaniels have moderate exercise needs. While they were bred as gundogs with good stamina for a day’s work, they are not as high-energy or fast-paced as some other sporting spaniels. Daily walks at a comfortable pace, totaling about 30-60 minutes, along with some opportunities for off-leash play in a securely fenced area, are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
They enjoy activities that allow them to use their excellent noses, such as leisurely sniffing walks or scent games. Many Clumbers also enjoy swimming if introduced to it properly. It’s important to prevent them from becoming overweight, as this can put stress on their joints. Due to their heavier build and potential for overheating, strenuous exercise in hot or humid weather should be avoided. They are generally calm indoors and are content to relax with their family after their exercise needs are met.
Common Clumber Spaniel Health Issues
Clumber Spaniels, due to their conformation and genetic predispositions, can be prone to a number of health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Common in many medium to large breeds, involving malformation of these joints.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Their long back and heavier build put them at risk for spinal disc problems.
- Eye Conditions: Including entropion (inward rolling eyelids), ectropion (outward rolling eyelids), and cataracts.
- Ear Infections (Otitis Externa): Very common due to their long, heavy, pendulous ears trapping moisture.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
- Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA):** An autoimmune disorder.
- Skin Allergies and Sensitivities:** Can occur.
- Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Phosphatase 1 Deficiency (PDP1):** A rare metabolic disorder. DNA testing is available.
Choosing a reputable breeder who performs comprehensive health screenings (hips, elbows, eyes, PDP1, etc.) on their breeding dogs is crucial. Regular veterinary care, diligent ear and skin fold care (if any), careful weight management, and appropriate exercise are vital for a Clumber Spaniel’s health.
Training Your Clumber Spaniel: Engaging a Gentle but Sometimes Stubborn Mind
Training a Clumber Spaniel requires patience, consistency, and a positive, gentle approach. They are intelligent and can learn, but they also possess a notable independent streak and can be quite stubborn if they are not motivated or if training methods are harsh. They are sensitive dogs and respond best to kindness and understanding.
Key aspects of training a Clumber Spaniel include:
- Early Socialization: Expose your Clumber puppy to a wide variety of people, sights, sounds, and other animals from a young age to build a confident and well-adjusted adult. Their natural reserve with strangers can be managed with good socialization.
- Positive Reinforcement: They are often food-motivated. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards. Keep training sessions upbeat and enjoyable.
- Patience and Consistency: Don’t get discouraged by their occasional stubbornness. Be consistent with rules and commands.
- Keep Sessions Relatively Short: While they have stamina for physical work, their attention for formal training might wander if sessions are too long or repetitive.
- Leash Training: Important for managing them on walks, as they may be inclined to follow scents.
Puppy socialization classes and ongoing obedience training are recommended. They are not typically high-drive obedience competitors but can be well-mannered companions with the right approach.
Clumber Spaniel FAQs
Q: Are Clumber Spaniels good family dogs?
A: Yes, Clumber Spaniels are known for being very gentle, loyal, and affectionate with their families, often forming strong bonds with children. Their calm demeanor makes them good companions, but their large size means interactions with very young children should be supervised.
Q: Do Clumber Spaniels drool a lot?
A: Yes, Clumber Spaniels can be significant droolers, especially after eating or drinking, or when excited, due to their jowly facial structure.
Q: How much exercise does a Clumber Spaniel need?
A: Clumbers have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and some playtime are usually sufficient. They are not built for intense, high-speed activities but enjoy leisurely exploration and have good stamina for long walks at their own pace.
Q: Are Clumber Spaniels rare?
A: Yes, the Clumber Spaniel is considered a relatively rare breed compared to many other spaniel types. Finding a reputable breeder may require some research and patience.