| Clumber Spaniel | ||||||||||||
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| Country of origin | ||||||||||||
| United Kingdom | ||||||||||||
| Classification | ||||||||||||
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| Breed standards (external links) | ||||||||||||
| FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC |
The Clumber Spaniel is a gundog breed developed in Britain. A long and heavy-bodied, low-stationed breed, it stands only 17 to 20 inches (43-51 cm) in height but weighs from 55 to 85 pounds (35-38.5 kg). The Clumber has heavier bone than other spaniels, a massive head with a hound-like face and expression, a deep muzzle, large square nose and broad low-set ears. His coat is dense, weather-resistent, straight and flat. Clumbers are predominantly white in colour with lemon or orange markings.
The breed’s history is uncertain before the middle of the 19th century. One theory is that it originated in France, stating that the Duc de Noailles at the time of the French Revolution gave his kennel of prized spaniels to the second Duke of Newcastle at Clumber Park in Nottingham. Another theory holds that it was developed in Britain from older breeds of hunting spaniels, perhaps by crossing them with Bassets or St. Hubert’s hounds. What is certain is that the breed took its name from Clumber Park and that the Duke of Newcastle’s gamekeeper, William Mansell, is credited with their development and improvement. Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria, was a fancier and promoter of the breed, as was his son King Edward VII, who bred them at Sandringham castle. The breed was shown in England from 1859 onward.
The Clumber is a serious gundog still, not as fast as some, but excellent in heavy cover and a good retriever when trained. He is also an excellent tracker. His temperament is described as gentle, loyal and affectionate, but dignified and aloof with strangers. Disadvantages of owning a Clumber are said to be slobbering, flatulence, constant shedding, and an incredible inventiveness for raiding kitchen counters, cabinets, and even the refrigerator.
Canine hip dysplasia is a serious issue in this breed. Other health issues are entropion and ectropion (turning inward or outward of the lower eyelid) and hypothyroidism.
Clumbers are registered with all major registries and recognised by FCI (Group 8, Breed 109).