| Alternative Name French Revolution Emigre
Basic Info
The Clumber Spaniel is a gundog breed developed in
Britain. A long and heavy-bodied, low-stationed spaniel,
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-resistant, straight, and flat. Clumbers
are predominantly white in colour with lemon or orange
markings.
Health
Canine hip dysplasia has been a serious issue in this
breed in the past. Diligent breeding programmes have
reduced the incidence considerably in recent years.
Other health issues are entropion and ectropion (turning
inward or outward of the lower eyelid) and
hypothyroidism
Behavior
The Clumber Spaniel is a serious gundog still, not as
fast as some, but is an excellent when upland hunting 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 constant shedding, snoring, drooling,
especially after a drink of water, and an incredible
inventiveness for raiding kitchen counters, cabinets,
and even the refrigerator. Puppies are especially
curious and inventive. The combination of a very
people-focused disposition and a strong urge to carry
something has led to many missing shoes and other
articles of clothing. When hunting, the Clumber's flush
is softer than that of the English Springer Spaniel or
English Cocker Spaniel. This "English flush", as it is
often called, is claimed by advocates to be more
appropriate to flushing birds in heavy cover. Birds in
heavy cover, the argument goes, have little chance of
running. The more aggressive flush of the Springer and
English Cockers could be necessary in open spaces,
especially when pheasant hunting, as birds are more
likely to run than flush in such circumstances
Origin
United Kingdom
History
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 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 Prince consort of Queen
Victoria, was a fancier and promoter of the breed, as
was his son King Edward VII, who bred them at the
Sandringham estate in Norfolk. The breed was shown in
England from 1859 onward.
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