Now here’s a breed you’ve probably never heard of before: the Clumber Spaniel! This dog is renowned for its distinctive appearance and stunningly kind temperament. They definitely stand out as one of the largest and most unique spaniel breeds.
They originated from the United Kingdom, specifically in Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire. Now, they’re beloved worldwide by dog enthusiasts. They are a very niche breed, and many people are still just learning about them. Find out more about these dogs below and why many people adore them!
1. Clumber Spaniels Come From England
The Clumber Spaniel’s roots can be traced all the way back to 18th-century England. They were particularly beloved by the Duke of Newcastle in Nottinghamshire and his gamekeeper, William Mansell. Bred initially by gamekeepers and nobility, this British dog breed was specifically designed for retrieving game birds in dense bushes and scrub.
Clumber Spaniels were particularly good in areas with thick underbrush because of their tough build and keen sense of smell. Their exact lineage is somewhat left to a guess, but many theories suggest that the cross is between various breeds, including the Alpine Spaniel and Basset Hound. This is perhaps where their interesting and distinctive characteristics arise from.
This breed gained a lot of popularity among British aristocracy and royalty. In fact, Queen Victoria owned several Clumber Spaniels during her time! Yet, despite being famous with the royals, during the World Wars, their numbers dwindled. However, dedicated breeders made sure to keep this breed alive. Today, these dogs are quite rare. Out of the American Kennel Club’s 201 registered breeds, they rank 148th.
2. Clumber Spaniels Are the Largest Spaniel Dog
Clumber Spaniels are distinctive because of their sturdy build and unique appearance. Being the largest of all the spaniel breeds, males usually stand between roughly 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 70 to 85 pounds. Females, on the other hand, are slightly smaller than this, but only slightly.
Their long, low-set bodies are typically well-muscled, giving them a robust appearance that makes them suitable for various terrains while hunting. This breed has a large and square head with deep-set eyes that make them look very intelligent and calm.
When it comes to their coat, it is really dense and straight, created to protect them from thorns and water. Clumber Spaniels usually come in a white coat with lemon or orange markings, usually around their eyes and ears. Their big, padded paws make it easy for them to navigate harsh and uneven terrain.
3. These Dogs Are Mellow, Amusing, and “Gentlemanly”
Renowned for their gentle and affectionate nature, these spaniels make excellent companions for both families with kids and people living on their own. Despite being originally bred for hunting, they are much more laid back when compared to other spaniel breeds, like Springer Spaniels. These heavy-set dogs prefer to lounge around than be constantly moving.
Clumber Spaniels are truly intelligent dogs with a strong desire to make their owners happy. This makes them super easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods and enjoy activities that keep their minds stimulated, such as interactive games and obedience training.
Socializing them early on is so important, as it helps them develop into well-rounded adults, ensuring that they are comfortable in a variety of situations and environments. Clumber Spaniels aren’t known for excessive barking, but they will definitely alert their owners if they hear anything concerning.
4. Clumber Spaniels Have Some Health Considerations
Like any dog breed, Clumber Spaniels can be more prone to certain health conditions that potential owners should understand. One big concern is orthopedic issues, including hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease. Both ailments can affect dogs’ mobility and will require veterinary care.
Spaniels’ long ears also make them quite prone to ear infections. It is really important to stay up to date with regular cleaning and inspections to prevent issues or any buildup in their ear canals. Due to their deep chests, these dogs can be susceptible to bloat, a life-threatening and scary condition that desperately requires immediate vet attention.
All responsible breeders will conduct health screenings, including eye exams and hip evaluations, to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions in their puppies. It is super essential for owners to maintain a balanced diet, provide regular exercise, and schedule routine veterinary check-ups to ensure their Clumber Spaniels’ well-being.
5. These Dogs Need Both Training and Exercise
Despite being very chilled-out and kind dogs, Clumber Spaniels still need exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Playtime, daily walks, and opportunities for exploration are essential to prevent obesity and boredom.
These dogs really like activities that engage their sense of smell, such as scent games and retrieving toys, which help them go back to their hunting roots. All training sessions should be consistent and focus on positive reinforcement, using rewards and praise to reinforce desired behaviors. These dogs are very intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to any training when they have positivity and consistency.
As noted, early socialization is really important for their long-term confidence and adjustability toward other animals and people. Going to puppy school with your dog will set them up for a life of confidence when interacting with others.
Conclusion: Clumber Spaniels Make Great Pets
The Clumber Spaniel is a beautiful companion because of its gentle temperament, distinctive appearance, and hunting ability. This is why they are such a unique and cherished breed among dog enthusiasts. Whether as a hunting companion or a beloved family pet, they bring loyalty, affection, and kindness to their household.
