GROUP: Gundog    SIZE: Medium    ORIGIN: United Kingdom

The Clumber is so spaniel-like, yet so distinct from the spaniel breeds we know today. He is the only white spaniel and is by far the heaviest. Being stoutly built his height is not always apparent, yet he is one of the tallest standing spaniels.

ORIGIN
The white spaniel of England has figured prominently in texts, paintings and other illustrations since the 19th century. It was the work of five generations of the Mansell family, gamekeepers to the Dukes of Newcastle-under-Lyne, that saw the rise to international fame of the working qualities of this elusive breed.

The Clumber is the only gundog breed named after an estate — the Clumber Park country seat of the Dukes of Newcastle. Fame was achieved through his steady nature, persistence in finding game and simple desire to please. At early field trials the Clumber was unbeatable until rule changes were implemented.

GENERAL APPEARANCE
The Clumber’s dazzling white coat is highlighted with lemon or light tan markings but essentially he is white. His muzzle is short and square, his skull flat and broad; the neck of good length, the chest, back and body deep and broad; the hindquarters large and powerful. Legs are stout and fairly short, while the deep set eyes are sparkling clear. There should be a wisp of red tissue showing under the eye when the dog rests. This is called the haw and a slackness of the lower lid allows dirt and grass seeds to be quickly flushed by tears.

A Clumber’s ears are triangular and broad, similar to the Welsh Springer but larger. He is powerfully and stoutly built, maturing at a relatively late age of five or six years.

SIZE
Males weigh about 36 kg and stand about 45 to 50 cm at the shoulder, bitches considerably smaller at 30 kg, standing 40 to 45 cm.

TEMPERAMENT
The Clumber has the typical loyal spaniel temperament. Although not as effusive as many other spaniel breeds, being quite aloof or reserved in company, he is quite the jester at home. His mellowness wins many hearts.

CARE AND GROOMING
The healthy sparkling coat is resistant to staining and usually only requires a thorough brushing to return it to full glory. Trimming is essential but again minimal: between the toes, around and under the feet, from stopper (front legs) or hock (hindlegs) to heel, and under the ears. A Clumber should be trimmed once a month, with brushing weekly. Ears should be wiped with a damp cloth fortnightly. The breed is active and needs exercise twice daily. An adult requires a one km walk, or less if allowed to gallop and gambol. Two 10 minute walks daily are sufficient provided the dog is in at least a nine by nine metre yard for the rest of the day. Essentially a very healthy breed if raised carefully.

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