Clumber Spaniel

Breed history:

 This breed was named after Clumber Park, property that belonged to the Duke of Newcastle. This is where it is thought to have been raised for the first time in England, being brought from France by the Duke of Noailles around the time of the French Revolution. Among its ancestors, we could mention the Alpine Spaniel and the Basset Hound. In the 19th century the breed became very popular among the English upper class. Today this dog is rarely seen.

Description:

 It is a medium-sized, massive, heavy dog, long rather than tall, with very short legs. It has a big and square head, a short muzzle and a large nose of different shades of brown, pink or purple. The eyes are big, round and amber-coloured. The ears are big, wide, long (shaped like a vine leaf), drooping and well covered with hair. The tail is docked short. The fur is of medium length, it is thick, straight, silky with fringes on the ears, neck, abdomen and legs. It is white with yellow or orange patches.

Personality:

 This dog is intelligent, courageous, tenacious, friendly with the ones close to it, well-balanced, quiet, with a good memory and with a noble character. It is affectionate and devoted to its master, it accepts children but is reserved or even unfriendly with strangers. It gets along well with other dogs and other household animals.

Grooming:

 The fur must be combed and brushed frequently. The hair on the ears must be trimmed, in order not to block the ear canal.

Living conditions:

 It is a dog that feels good with a loving and active family. Although it has a moderate level of activity, it likes to take walks, to practice field sports, but it can adapt to the family and conditions offered. It is quiet and calm indoors, even if it is a rather active dog. It needs socialization and training.

Training:

 This dog's training is not difficult, because it is an intelligent dog, with a good memory and wants to please its master. With a consistent, gentle training, one can easily obtain good results.

Usefulness:

 Although fit for it, today it is rarely used for hunting birds, being mostly used as a watchdog or as a companion dog.