Clumber Spaniel General Aparance Powerful Hindquarters

The Clumber Spaniel is a long, low and substantial dog. His heavy brow, deep chest, straight forelegs, powerful hindquarters, massive bone and good feet all give him the power and endurance to move through dense underbrush in pursuit of game. His white coat enables him to be seen by the hunter as he works within gun range. His stature is dignified, his expression pensive, but at the same time he shows great enthusiasm for his work and play.

The Clumber Spaniel is a sporting dog that was developed by the aristocracy of Europe as a hunting dog for upland game. As such, the Clumber was a spaniel of massive substance that generally worked in packs close to the hunter. The Clumber Spaniel has evolved into a devoted companion of outstanding character and appeal. As a companion dog his charm, independence, warmth of character and creativity of spirit make him second to none. In the field, Clumbers have maintained their outstanding hunting abilities.

The description of the ideal Clumber Spaniel bitch parallels that of the ideal Clumber Spaniel dog, but bitches have somewhat less substance, size and furnishings. The Clumber Spaniel is versatile in the field. He is a flushing dog and a retriever used for upland game, such as quail, pheasant, woodcock, grouse, dove, and also ducks and rabbits. This dog possesses enormous physical strength. A long low body and a heavy coat enable him to do what few other sporting dogs can do, that is, he can work in extremely heavy undergrowth in fields and ditches where game is most likely to hide. Brambles and briars do not deter this dog. He will fight his way through them if he scents birds. His coat protects his body and his heavy brow protects his eyes.

The Clumber works within gun range of the hunter, and his all white coat makes him easily seen while working. His bold nature, calmness, intelligence and good disposition aid his abilities in the field. Upon scenting game, the Clumber displays an amazing burst of energy and birdiness that subsides only when the game is bagged.

To point out his versatility, it must be stated that the Clumber is a strong swimmer, and his large feet and heavy, water resistant coat enable him to perform comfortably as a water retriever in all kinds of weather. Clumbers are deliberate swimmers and their water retrieving is reliable. The Clumber has a very keen nose and soft mouth. His ability to find and retrieve game is one of his outstanding features.

The Clumber's nose makes him a natural dog for tracking work, and his happy disposition and loyalty are beneficial when it comes to obedience and other performance events. He is most often an enthusiastic worker, adding his own antics to the routines to make them interesting.