Clumber Spaniel
Description
Ever wonder what makes the Clumber Spaniel stand out among spaniels? This breed is the largest of the flushing spaniels, originally bred in England for hunting but now cherished as a calm family companion. Their heavy-boned, sturdy build and distinct white coat with lemon or orange markings give them a unique, dignified appearance. They move with a slow, deliberate gait that matches their laid-back personality. Clumbers aren’t your typical hyperactive sporting dogs. They prefer a relaxed pace and enjoy lounging around as much as a gentle walk. They’re affectionate and patient, often forming strong bonds with children and other pets. While they’re intelligent, they can be a bit stubborn, so training requires patience and consistency. Their love for food means watchful portion control is a must to keep them fit.
Grooming
Clumber Spaniels have a medium-length silky, wavy coat that’s mostly white with lemon or orange markings. Their coat sheds very little but mats easily, especially behind the ears and under the armpits, so regular grooming is essential. Brush or comb your Clumber 3 to 5 times a week to keep tangles at bay and maintain that silky sheen. Between full grooms, a light trim around the sanitary areas and feet helps keep them tidy. Bathing every 3 to 6 weeks is ideal, and always dry their coat straight to avoid mats. Pro tip: Pay extra attention during humid seasons when moisture can increase matting risk. Use a detangling spray if needed to ease brushing. - Brush/comb 3–5× weekly - Detangle ears and armpits carefully - Light sanitary and feet trims between grooms - Bathe every 3–6 weeks - Full professional groom every 4–6 weeks
Learn the Silky routine:
→ Complete Silky Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Clumber Spaniel really need? Despite their size, they have a low activity demand compared to other sporting breeds. Aim for about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This keeps them healthy without pushing their laid-back nature too far. A slow to moderate pace suits them best, allowing time to sniff and explore. Example routine: Morning walk for 35 minutes around the neighborhood, followed by a 35-minute evening stroll in a quiet park. This balance helps prevent boredom and supports their gentle temperament. Remember, they’re not built for long runs or vigorous play but enjoy steady, calm outings.
Boarding
Planning to board a Clumber Spaniel? Make sure their crate is at least 48 inches long to accommodate their sturdy frame comfortably. They enjoy a relaxed environment but still need mental and physical stimulation during their stay. Staff should provide two active play sessions daily, combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds engaged. Clumbers tend to be mellow, so they appreciate quiet time between activities. They get along well with other calm dogs but might not enjoy overly boisterous playmates. Boarding staff should note their food motivation and monitor portions carefully to avoid weight gain. A consistent routine with gentle handling helps them feel secure and happy while away from home.