The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Sporting

Clumber Spaniel

Heavy-set spaniel with quiet ease

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Exercise
Medium
Mental stimulation
Medium
Trainability
Medium
Vocality
Low
Health sensitivity
High
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
High
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Large
Lifespan
10–12 years
Body weight
55–85 lb
Height
17–20 in
Apartment suitability
Less Suited

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Prefer a lower-gear pace with steady, predictable daily walks
  • Like calm routines with simple games instead of nonstop action

Not ideal

  • Want intense daily workouts as the baseline expectation
  • Need a very tidy home with minimal mess

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Slow-and-steady with a strong nose—more methodical explorer than athlete. Many are happiest on long, sniff-heavy walks and then fully commit to relaxing.

Handling & social style

Generally tolerant and gentle, especially with unhurried handling. They settle into routines best when you keep things calm and simple.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

The Clumber Spaniel is calm, heavy-boned, and quietly affectionate—often more “slow and steady” than flashy. Many are gentle companions with a determined streak.

Environment & space

Layout matters—easy movement and fewer stairs help. They’re often fine in smaller homes if walks are consistent and weight is managed.

Daily routine

Short-to-moderate walks, gentle play, and simple training refreshers. Many do best with steady conditioning instead of intense bursts.

Health sensitivities

Weight stability and joint comfort are major practical priorities; eye/ear upkeep can matter too.

Grooming / coat

Moderate grooming—brushing for feathering and shedding, plus keeping the underside clean.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

England

Background

Refined in England in the late 1700s, the Clumber Spaniel was developed for slow, steady hunting in thick cover on large estates. The job was pushing through heavy brush and following scent patiently, not racing around. That’s why the Clumber’s vibe is often more methodical than many other spaniels. Today, owners often see a calm dog with a strong nose and a preference for consistent routines.