The Clumber Spaniel isn’t just any dog—it’s a breed so cherished that even King George V couldn’t bear to see it fade into history. When their numbers plunged, the king himself took action, rescuing these gentle giants from the edge of extinction¹.
With their droopy eyes, lovable quirks, and unwavering devotion, Clumbers have long held a special place in the hearts of royals and commoners alike.
Here’s nine quirks that make them truly unforgettable.
1. Unbreakable Bond with Humans
Clumber Spaniels are renowned for their deep devotion to their families, forming incredibly strong bonds that can melt even the coldest of hearts. These affectionate companions thrive on attention and will follow you around the house, always eager to be by your side.
2. Gentle Nature with Children
Despite their imposing size, Clumber Spaniels possess a remarkably gentle and patient temperament, making them excellent companions for families with children.
They have an innate understanding of how to interact with little ones, and their calm demeanor ensures that playtime remains a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.
3. Love for Water Adventures
Thanks to their sporting background, Clumber Spaniels have a natural affinity for water.
Whether it’s retrieving a stick from a lake or simply splashing around in a kiddie pool, these dogs will happily embrace any opportunity to indulge their aquatic side, providing endless entertainment for their owners.
4. Endearing Habit of Carrying Things
One of the most adorable quirks of Clumber Spaniels is their tendency to carry things around in their mouths, a behavior they start as puppies and continue throughout their lives.
It’s not unusual to see them wiggling their whole body while greeting someone, all the while with a favorite toy or object clenched between their jaws, as if presenting a gift.
5. Mischievous Streak
While generally well-behaved, Clumber Spaniels can’t resist the occasional bout of mischief, especially during their adolescent years.
From counter-surfing to fridge-raiding, these dogs have a knack for getting into trouble, but their endearing antics are often too amusing to scold them for long.
6. Slobbery Charm
Clumber Spaniels are known for their tendency to slobber and drool, a quirk that can be both endearing and messy, depending on your perspective.
Their floppy jowls and love for carrying things in their mouths only add to the slobbery charm, making them the perfect companions for those who don’t mind a little extra cleanup.
7. Quiet Nature
Despite their size, Clumber Spaniels are relatively quiet dogs, rarely barking unless they have something important to communicate.
This quirk makes them excellent apartment dwellers, as they won’t disturb the neighbors with incessant yapping.
8. Distinctive Appearance
With their large, heavyset bodies, short legs, and broad heads, Clumber Spaniels have a distinctive and endearing appearance that sets them apart from other breeds.
Their unique look, combined with their lemon or orange markings, makes them instantly recognizable and adds to their overall charm.
9. Regal History
Clumber Spaniels have a regal history, having been favored by the British aristocracy and royalty, including Queen Victoria and King Edward VII.
This prestigious past adds a touch of charm and prestige to their quirky personalities, making them truly fit for a king (or queen).
Keeping Your Clumber Healthy & Happy
Caring for a Clumber Spaniel requires some special considerations to keep these gentle giants happy and healthy. Here are some tips for taking care of your Clumber:
- Groom regularly by brushing 2-3 times per week and bathing monthly to manage shedding and prevent matting.
- Provide at least 1 hour of daily exercise through walks, swimming, fetch, or other activities to meet their moderate exercise needs.
- Feed a high-quality diet in moderation, avoiding overfeeding, as Clumbers can be prone to obesity.
- Clean their ears regularly and trim nails to prevent infections and discomfort.
- Socialize and train with positive reinforcement methods from an early age to curb stubbornness.
- Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor for potential health issues like hip/elbow dysplasia, ear infections, and disc disease.
With their gentle nature and regal history, Clumber Spaniels make wonderful companions when their grooming, exercise, and health needs are met through proper care and attention.
Source:
1. viovet.co.uk
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.