Breed History:

The Clumber Spaniel is one of the oldest and heaviest spaniel breeds, believed to have originated in France before being brought to England during the 18th century. The breed was developed and refined at Clumber Park, the estate of the Duke of Newcastle in Nottinghamshire, England, from which it gets its name.

Traditionally bred as a hunting companion for aristocrats, the Clumber Spaniel specialised in flushing game birds from dense undergrowth. Unlike faster sporting spaniels, the Clumber worked slowly and methodically, relying on stamina, scenting ability, and determination. The breed became especially popular among British nobility, including Prince Albert and King Edward VII.

It was officially recognised by the AKC in 1884 and remains known for its calm temperament, loyalty, and excellent nose.

If you want to learn about other spaniel breeds, check out our page "Different Spaniel Dog Breeds". 

Size: Medium-Large

Life Expectancy: 10–12 years

Breed Appearance:

The Clumber Spaniel has a long, low, and heavy-bodied build with strong bones and substantial muscle. It possesses a broad head, deep muzzle, large nose, and soft, droopy expression that gives the breed a thoughtful appearance.

Its dense, straight coat is predominantly white with lemon or orange markings, usually around the face, ears, and tail base. The ears are large and vine-leaf shaped, hanging close to the cheeks.

The Clumber’s movement is steady and rolling rather than fast or flashy, reflecting its traditional role as a slow but dependable hunting dog.

Breed Type – Sporting/Gundog:

The Clumber Spaniel is a calm, affectionate, and dependable sporting breed. Unlike many energetic spaniels, it tends to be quieter and more relaxed indoors while still enjoying outdoor activity and scent work.

It forms strong bonds with family members and is usually gentle with children. Though reserved with strangers initially, the breed is rarely aggressive. Its natural scenting instincts and persistence make it an excellent field companion.

The Clumber enjoys having a purpose and thrives when involved in family activities, tracking games, or retrieving exercises.

Training:

The Clumber Spaniel is intelligent and eager to please, but can sometimes display stubbornness or a laid-back attitude. Training should be patient, positive, and consistent.

Food motivation works especially well with this breed. Early socialisation and obedience training are important to prevent stubborn habits and encourage confidence around new people and environments.

Clumbers perform well in:

• Obedience training

• Tracking and scent work

• Rally and field trials

• Retrieving games

Harsh training methods should be avoided, as the breed responds best to encouragement and routine.

Health & Care:

Clumber Spaniels are generally sturdy dogs, but may be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Elbow dysplasia

• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

• Entropion and ectropion (eye issues)

• Ear infections

• Obesity

Because of their heavy build and love for food, maintaining a healthy weight is extremely important. Regular vet checkups, controlled portions, and moderate exercise help keep the breed healthy and mobile.

Some Clumbers also drool heavily, especially after eating or drinking.

Living Conditions:

The Clumber Spaniel adapts well to indoor family life and can live comfortably in suburban homes or apartments if exercised properly. However, it enjoys access to a secure yard where it can sniff and explore.

This breed prefers cooler climates due to its thick coat and heavy body. During hot weather, exercise should be limited to cooler parts of the day.

The Clumber is best suited to families looking for a calm, affectionate companion rather than a highly energetic sporting dog.

Exercise:

Although less hyperactive than many spaniels, the Clumber still requires regular exercise to prevent obesity and boredom.

Ideal activities include:

• Daily walks

• Scent games and tracking

• Fetch and retrieving exercises

• Swimming

• Moderate hiking

The breed enjoys mental stimulation but generally prefers steady activity over intense endurance exercise.

Grooming:

The Clumber Spaniel requires moderate grooming due to its dense coat and feathering.

• Brushing 2–3 times weekly to prevent matting

• More frequent brushing during shedding seasons

• Regular ear cleaning to prevent infections

• Routine dental care and nail trimming

• Occasional bathing as needed

The breed sheds consistently throughout the year and may track dirt indoors because of its low build.

Advantages:

• Calm, affectionate, and loyal temperament

• Excellent family companion

• Intelligent and eager to please

• Good scenting and tracking abilities

• Generally gentle with children

• Adaptable to indoor living

Disadvantages:

• Prone to obesity if overfed

• Can be stubborn during training

• Heavy shedding and drooling

• Susceptible to joint and back problems

• Requires regular ear and coat maintenance

• Lower energy may not suit very active owners