Clumber Spaniel
Great Britain, Flushing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 43–51 cm
- Weight
- 25–39 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Calm
- Gentle
- Loyal
- Dignified
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is a large, heavy spaniel from Great Britain, named after Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire. It was developed as a slow, methodical flushing dog for working through thick cover. It has a long, low body, a large head, a mostly white silky coat with lemon or orange markings, and a calm, dignified manner.
Temperament
Usually calm, gentle and loyal, with a quiet, dignified nature. It tends to be affectionate with family and a little reserved with strangers, and may be stubborn at times.
Exercise
Needs steady daily exercise, such as walks and gentle play. It is not a high-speed athlete but needs regular activity to stay lean.
Grooming
The silky coat needs brushing a few times a week. Clean the facial folds and ears and check for debris.
Care & wellbeing
Keep weight lean, as the heavy build can strain joints. Check the drop ears and eyes regularly and ask a vet about breed-appropriate hip, eye and spine checks.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 32 kg adult- Water
- 1.3 L–1.9 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,510 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Clumber Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A heavy-boned British spaniel developed for flushing game in dense cover, with a steady, slow style of working. It is a placid, loyal dog with a pale coat and low build, and is thought to have been favoured on estates for shooting.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Ectropion and entropion
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Ear infections
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
Not every Clumber Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Clumber Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Clumber Spaniel get?
Adult Clumber Spaniels typically stand about 43–51 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–39 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Clumber Spaniels live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Clumber Spaniel need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Clumber Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Clumber Spaniels easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Clumber Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Clumber Spaniels good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Clumber Spaniel live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Clumber Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ectropion and entropion, intervertebral disc disease. Not every Clumber Spaniel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Flushing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954