Overview
The Clumber Spaniel was bred on the Duke of Newcastle's estate to work thick cover at a walking pace, and it still does everything at that speed. It is a long, low, heavy dog with a massive head, a thick white coat and a thoughtful expression. It has none of the Cocker's bounce but all of the spaniel nose.
It is a kind, steady, rather humorous dog that loves to carry things and will greet you with a shoe or a sock. The downsides are practical: a lot of shed hair, some drool, a coat that collects mud and a body shape that needs looking after.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two walks suits an adult, and it will be an hour of sniffing rather than running. Clumbers enjoy working a hedge and will happily retrieve, but they are not distance dogs.
Warm weather slows them further. The heavy body and dense coat heat up fast, so keep summer walks early and short.
On the walk
- Pace: Steady and methodical. A Clumber works ground thoroughly and will not be rushed, so give it time and a route with plenty of scent.
- Recall: Generally good, as the dog rarely wants to be far from you, but a scent trail in cover can hold it up. A whistle works well.
- Other dogs: Placid and good-natured, rarely the problem in a group. May be knocked about by very bouncy dogs.
- Carrying: The dog will pick up and carry things, including things it should not. Watch for bones and litter in hedges.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a towel; the white feathering on the legs and belly collects every drop of mud.
- Keep jumping into and out of vehicles to a minimum. A ramp or a lift protects the long back and heavy front.
- Check the eyes after walks through long grass; the loose lids pick up seeds and dust.
- Plan for drool on your clothes and your seats.
What to ask the owner
- Any hip, back or eye problems the vet is monitoring, and are there limits on jumping or stairs?
- How does the dog cope in heat, and at what point do they want walks shortened?
- Does it swallow things it picks up, and what should you do if it does?