Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniels make good family dogs due to their affectionate, loyal, sweet nature. They are very playful and get along well with children and other pets.

However, Clumbers do tend to be aloof or even suspicious of strangers. But this doesn't typically keep them from being friendly when they encounter someone they don't know.

True to their spaniel heritage, Clumber Spaniels love to chew, hunt, and retrieve.

Clumber Spaniels need a high-quality diet that's appropriate for their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior)—consider foods formulated specifically for large-breed dogs.

All dogs should maintain a healthy weight, but it's particularly important that Clumber Spaniels not become overweight. They already have a heavy build to support. So, any extra pounds will add further stress to their bones and joints.

To keep your Clumber's weight in a healthy range, monitor food intake—including treats—closely. Keep portions under control by using a standard measuring cup to measure out meals, and ensure treats make up no more than 10% of their daily calories.

Clumber Spaniels are above-average shedders, so you should brush them a couple of times per week. You can bathe them on an as-needed basis, but the folds on their heads should be cleaned with a damp cloth regularly. And any skin folds should be kept dry to avoid yeast infections.

Clumbers can be prone to ear infections. So, it's important to check their ears routinely and clean them often. As with all dogs, Clumber Spaniels' nails need frequent trims to prevent pain or issues caused by overgrown nails.

In addition to occasional professional dental cleanings, you should establish an at-home dental care routine that includes regular teeth-brushing and dental treats or toys.

Bred to be able to plow through dense cover while hunting and retrieving prey, Clumber Spaniels are considered the largest of all spaniels. But don't let their hefty physique fool you—Clumbers are active dogs that need regular exercise. Long walks, hikes, and backyard tennis ball games are fun ways for them to burn off energy.

Clumbers also enjoy exercise that takes advantage of their keen sense of smell and retrieving abilities. Activities such as tracking and hunting are great ways for them to stay physically and mentally fit. They're also good swimmers and relish the opportunity to show off their water skills.

Because they're intelligent and eager to please, Clumber Spaniels are relatively easy to train. However, they can also be independent-minded. So, if you don't keep training sessions interesting, they may search for more entertainment.

Clumbers are also quite food-motivated. You can use this to your advantage when you need to keep their attention or train them to release an inappropriate item (such as a slipper or a pair of sunglasses). Just remember to account for those treats when you're feeding your Clumber, so they don't lead to weight gain.