Clumber Spaniel breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Clumber Spaniels
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Clumber Spaniel breed
Clumber Spaniels are a distinctive and delightful breed, easily recognised by their long, low-set bodies, expressive faces, and calm demeanor. Originating in France, they were developed as exceptional hunting dogs, skilled at retrieving game from both land and water. Known for their unique "Clumber Roll," a charming rolling gait when they walk, these dogs combine functionality with elegance.
Weight, height and life expectancy
This breed is sturdy and muscular, with males typically standing between 43 and 51 cm tall and weighing 29 to 34 kg. Females are slightly smaller, with an average height of 41 to 48 cm and a weight range of 25 to 29 kg. Their solid build contributes to their ability to work tirelessly in the field, while their gentle temperament makes them ideal companions at home.
Clumber Spaniels have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, offering years of loyalty and affection when provided with proper care. Their history, unique appearance, and dependable nature make them a wonderful choice for families or individuals seeking a calm yet capable breed with a rich heritage and engaging personality.
What is the temperament of Clumber Spaniels like?
Clumber Spaniels are known for their gentle, affectionate, and easygoing temperament, making them ideal companions for families and individuals alike. They are calm and steady dogs, well-suited to a variety of living situations, and they form strong bonds with their owners. Their loyal and devoted nature means they thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of family activities.
These dogs are generally good with children and can get along well with other pets if they are properly socialised from a young age. While they are known for their relaxed demeanor, Clumber Spaniels may occasionally display a stubborn streak, which requires consistent and patient training. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and rewards, are highly effective with this breed, helping to motivate them and encourage good behaviour.
With their combination of calmness, loyalty, and a touch of independence, Clumber Spaniels are wonderful companions who adapt well to family life while maintaining their unique and charming personality.
Our Clumber Spaniel Community
"Lenny is our super friendly family dog, who loves nothing more than being one of the pack. He loves mud and puddles... not a great combination with his white coat! After running off some energy, Lenny is a calm dog who enjoys a lot of sleep. He does however also enjoy the odd slipper and this breed are notorious chewers if given the opportunity."
Lenny's owner, Samantha from London
"Ralph is a 9 month old bundle of fun! He’s great with other dogs and loves going out for walks and playing, equally loves a good snooze after a walk! His recall is good and loves a treat along the way. He loves a tug of war or a ball thrown to tire him out."
Ralph's owner, Sophie from London
How much exercise do Clumber Spaniels need?
Clumber Spaniels have moderate exercise needs, typically requiring about 1 to 1.5 hours of activity per day to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy leisurely walks, playtime in a secure area, and activities that provide mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or nose work. Engaging them in activities that tap into their natural instincts, like retrieving or swimming, can be both beneficial and highly enjoyable for them.
For Clumber Spaniel puppies, exercise requirements differ to accommodate their developing joints and muscles. Shorter play and exercise sessions are recommended to prevent overexertion, and high-impact activities should be avoided. Gradually increasing the duration and intensity of their exercise as they grow will help ensure healthy development. Always consult with your vet for specific exercise guidelines tailored to your Clumber Spaniel’s age and developmental stage.
By providing a balance of physical activity and mental enrichment, Clumber Spaniels can thrive and maintain their calm yet active nature, making them wonderful companions for families or individuals with an active lifestyle.
Do Clumber Spaniels need a lot of grooming?
Clumber Spaniels have a dense, weather-resistant double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance. Their coat consists of a soft undercoat and a straight, dense outer coat, which provides protection in various weather conditions.
To keep their coat in good condition, brushing a few times a week is essential. Regular brushing helps prevent matting, removes loose hair, and keeps their coat free of tangles. Pay particular attention to areas like the ears, the feathering on their legs, and the belly, as these spots are more prone to knots and debris buildup.
Clumber Spaniels are moderate shedders, and during seasonal shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be required to manage increased hair loss and keep their coat looking tidy. Using a de-shedding tool or slicker brush can be particularly effective during these times.
In addition to coat care, regular grooming routines should include cleaning their ears to prevent infections, trimming their nails to avoid overgrowth, and tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste. Ideally, brush their teeth daily or as often as possible to maintain good oral health.
While their grooming needs are moderate, consistent care will keep your Clumber Spaniel comfortable, healthy, and looking their best.
Are Clumber Spaniels easy to train?
Clumber Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, but they can have an independent and sometimes stubborn streak, which may make training slightly challenging. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, they can be trained effectively to become well-mannered companions.
Early socialisation is crucial for Clumber Spaniels. Exposing them to various people, animals, and environments at a young age helps them develop into confident, adaptable dogs. This foundation of socialisation can prevent unwanted behaviours and ensure they are comfortable in different situations.
Reward-based training methods work best with Clumber Spaniels. Using treats, praise, and toys as motivators encourages them to focus and learn desired behaviours. Keeping training sessions short, fun, and engaging helps maintain their attention and prevents boredom, which can arise if sessions are too repetitive or lengthy.
While they may occasionally test boundaries, Clumber Spaniels are ultimately loyal and eager to bond with their owners. With a thoughtful training approach and plenty of positive reinforcement, they can excel in obedience, making them wonderful and well-behaved companions.
What Do Clumber Spaniels Eat?
Clumber Spaniels should be fed a high-quality dog food tailored to their age, size, and activity level. Proper nutrition is essential to maintain their health, energy levels, and weight, especially since Clumber Spaniels can be prone to obesity.
For Puppies:
Puppies have specific dietary needs to support their growth and development. They should be fed a specially formulated puppy diet until they reach around 12 months of age. Feed puppies 3-4 meals daily until they are six months old, then reduce to twice daily. Gradually transition them to adult food under the guidance of your veterinarian.
For Adults:
Adult Clumber Spaniels typically thrive on two meals per day. Follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging and adjust portions as needed to maintain a healthy weight. Select a diet appropriate for medium to large breeds, especially if your dog has a moderate activity level.
General Tips:
Avoid overfeeding and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake.
Always provide access to fresh, clean water.
Consult your veterinarian for personalised dietary recommendations or if your Clumber Spaniel has specific health concerns.
Are Clumber Spaniels Healthy?
Clumber Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Being aware of these potential issues can help owners provide proper care and seek early treatment when necessary.
Common Health Concerns:
Bones and Joints:
- Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together properly, leading to discomfort and potentially arthritis.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Abnormal spinal discs that can slip out of place and put pressure on the spinal cord, causing pain or paralysis in severe cases.
Ears:
- Outer Ear Infections: Long ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to overgrowth of bacteria or yeast. Signs include redness, inflammation, odour, and irritation.
Eyes:
- Dry Eye: Reduced tear production can cause discomfort, infections, and damage to the eyes.
- Entropion: A condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea and irritate the eye.
Skin:
- Atopy: Allergies that result in skin irritation, redness, and itchiness due to an overactive immune response to environmental allergens.
Vet top tip
Clumber Spaniels are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues like hip dysplasia or intervertebral disc disease. Keep their weight in check by monitoring portion sizes, feeding a high-quality diet, and limiting treats. Regular, low-impact exercise like swimming or controlled walks is great for keeping them fit without putting undue strain on their joints. Always consult your vet for tailored dietary and exercise recommendations to keep your Clumber Spaniel healthy and happy.
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
