Clumber Spaniel

Family: gundog, spaniel

Origin: England

Date of Origin: 1700s

Breed For: bird flushing and retrieving

Lifespan:

Recently Used For: bird flushing and retrieving, spaniel field trials

Avg Size of Male: Height: 19-20 Weight: 70-85

Avg Size of Female: Height:17-19 Weight: 55-70

Temperament:

Among the most low-keyed and easygoing of sporting breeds, the clumber spaniel is nonetheless a hunter at heart, ever ready for a day in the field. At home it tends to be quiet and may even need to be goaded into exercise. It is one of the few sporting breeds suitable for city life, although it will relish walks and outings. The clumber makes a good pet, especially devoted to one person.

History:

The stockiest of the spaniels, the clumber is also one of the oldest, dating to the late 1700s. Although the exact derivation of the breed is unknown, it is likely that the old heavy-headed Alpine spaniel and the low-bodied basset hound played prominent roles in its development. The breed did not get its name until around the time of the French Revolution, when it is believed that the Duc de Noailles of France moved his spaniel kennels to the Duke of Newcastle's English estate, Clumber Park. Clumber spaniels appealed to the English nobility, who appreciated this slow-moving but especially keen-nosed hunter that was also an adept retriever. The breed was not readily available to commoners, because the nobility discouraged its popularity except among higher society. As befitting their high status, clumbers were among the earliest breeds to be shown. They came to America in the late 1800s. Their popularity has remained strongest in the field, although clumbers have attained high show honors. They remain generally unknown to the public despite their many attributes.

Upkeep:

The clumber enjoys a daily outing, but its exercise requirements can be met with a long walk on leash or a leisurely hike in the field. The coat needs brushing two to three times weekly, although in dirty areas it may need more frequent bathing in order to keep its coat a gleaming white. Clumbers tend to drool and, at times, snore.

Health:

Major concerns: CHD, entropion#Minor concerns: intervertebral disc problems, ectropion#Occasionally seen: epilepsy#Suggested tests: hip, eye#Life span: 10 – 12 years