Sporting Group · Purebred · England's heaviest spaniel — a low-slung, white-and-lemon aristocrat with an extraordinary nose, deliberate pace, and quiet, dignified devotion
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Clumber Spaniel — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Clumber Spaniel is the largest and heaviest of all spaniels, a low-slung, massive-headed flushing dog with a history closely tied to British aristocracy. Its origins are somewhat mysterious — the most popular theory holds that French duc de Noailles sent his prized spaniels to the Duke of Newcastle at Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire before the French Revolution, and the breed was refined there over generations. Whatever its exact origins, the Clumber was firmly established as a British nobleman's gun dog by the early 1800s. King Edward VII, King George V, and Prince Albert all kept Clumbers, cementing the breed's royal association.
Unlike most flushing spaniels, the Clumber works at a deliberate, methodical pace — systematically quartering dense cover with a powerful nose rather than the frantic speed of a Springer. Its white coat (with lemon or orange markings) is practical in the field, allowing hunters to track the dog through heavy brush. The Clumber's expression — heavy brow, deep-set eyes, haw showing slightly — gives it a thoughtful, almost mournful look that belies its cheerful, gentle temperament. The AKC recognized the Clumber Spaniel in 1878, making it one of the first nine breeds registered. Today it remains rare, cherished by those who appreciate substance, quiet dignity, and a dog that thinks before it acts.
Real Clumber Spaniels — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Clumber Spaniels are known for being friendly, active, and eager to please. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. They strike a good balance — lively enough to enjoy playtime and adventures, but calm enough to settle indoors when the day is done.
Training is generally a pleasure with Clumber Spaniels — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
Clumber Spaniels need regular daily exercise to maintain a healthy weight and an even temperament. They are versatile companions who enjoy active outings but are equally content to relax at home after their needs are met.
Clumber Spaniels have a dense double coat built for protection against the elements. They shed year-round with two major blow-out seasons in spring and fall. Regular brushing dramatically reduces the amount of hair around your home and keeps the coat healthy.
Clumber Spaniels are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Clumber Spaniels are generally robust dogs but like all breeds they carry some genetic predispositions. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Clumber Spaniel fits well with families or individuals who can provide moderate daily exercise and consistent companionship. They adapt reasonably well to various living situations as long as their exercise and social needs are met. Not ideal for owners away from home for long hours without a pet care solution in place.
Clumber Spaniels need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a large-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Clumber Spaniel's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Clumber Spaniel is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Clumber Spaniel costs between $150–$300 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 8–12 year lifespan, a Clumber Spaniel typically costs between $15,000–$28,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Clumber Spaniels have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Clumber Spaniel crosses.
Two classic British spaniels — the Clumber's calm, deliberate nature combined with the Cocker's cheerful, lively personality in a medium-large, silky companion.
The Clumber's calm dignity and powerful nose with the Golden's universal friendliness — a large, gentle, golden-white sporting companion ideal for families.
Combining the Clumber's substance and methodical field work with the Springer's energy and enthusiasm — a versatile, medium-large gundog with a wonderful temperament.
Two low-slung, heavy-boned scent experts — a calm, gentle, extremely nose-driven companion with a wonderfully soulful expression and patient temperament.
Clumber Spaniels are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.