There are a lot of things to consider before adding a Clumber Spaniel to your family.
They’re a big breed, and they require plenty of exercise and room to run.
But if you can provide those things, Clumbers make great pets – they’re loyal, loving, and very easy to train.
Here are the top ten things you need to know before owning one of these furry friends.
The top ten considerations
1. Clumber spaniels are a very active breed and need plenty of exercise. If you don’t have the time to take them for long walks or runs, they may not be the right breed for you.
2. They are known for being “drooly dogs,” so be prepared for slobber. They also tend to snore, which can be a bit of a nuisance for light sleepers.
3. They are gentle giants and are great with children and other pets. However, their size can make them a bit clumsy, so they may not be suitable for households with small children or very fragile items.
4. They require regular grooming, including brushing and shampooing, to keep their coat healthy and mat-free. If you’re not up for the task, you may want to consider another breed.
5. They are relatively quiet dogs, but they will bark if they feel threatened or if someone is at the door.
6. They are intelligent dogs and can be trained relatively easily. However, they can also be stubborn, so patience is key.
7. They are sensitive dogs and do not do well in environments that are loud or chaotic. If you live in a high-stress household, they may not be the right breed for you.
8. They are known for being “Velcro dogs” and love nothing more than being close to their human companions.
9. If you’re looking for a independent dog that doesn’t need much attention, this is definitely not the breed for you.
10. They are relatively healthy dogs but can be prone to some health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis.
Be sure to do your research before owning any dog to make sure you are prepared to handle any potential health problems.
What to expect in the first year with a Clumber spaniel
The first year of owning a Clumber Spaniel is definitely an exciting time, but there are a few things you should know beforehand.
Here are the most important things to expect in the first year.
Healthcare
The most important things to expect in the first year are regular vet check-ups.
Clumber spaniels, like all dogs need looking after properly.
Your dog will need regular worming, flea treatments and vaccinations to keep him healthy and it’s important to make sure that you get familiar with this right from the start.
Grooming
Grooming is essential, and you will need to brush their coat weekly and give them a decent bath every few months, or more if he become very dirty.
Always use a dog specific shampoo and don’t be tempted to use human soaps which can irritate and dry out a spaniel’s coat and skin.
Training and exercise
They are intelligent dogs and can be trained relatively easily. However, they can also be stubborn, so patience is key.
They will also require a lot of exercise, so be prepared to take them on long walks or runs several times a week.
Clumbers like human company
They are a very social breed and will need plenty of human interaction and if you’re not home often then they may not be the right breed for you.
They are sensitive dogs and do not do well in environments that are loud or chaotic.
If you live in a high-stress household, they may not be the right breed for you.
How to train your Clumber spaniel
A well-trained Clumber Spaniel is a pleasure to live with. But getting to that point takes time, patience, and a good understanding of doggy psychology.
Here are some tips on how to train your Clumber the right way.
Begin early
Start training your Clumber Spaniel as soon as possible.
Puppies are the best students, and the sooner you start, the easier it will be to train them.
Be consistent
Be consistent with your commands and rewards.
If you give a command one day and don’t follow through with it the next, your dog will quickly learn that it can ignore you.
The same goes for rewards – if you give them one day and then don’t do so the next, they’ll stop responding to your treats.
Use positive reinforcement whenever possible.
Dogs respond better to positive reinforcement than punishment, so always reward your pup when it does something good.
This will help them to associate good behaviour with happiness and make learning easier.
Take your time
Be patient. Training a dog takes time and patience, so be prepared to work at it for weeks or even months before you see any real results.
Grooming and caring for Your Clumber spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are medium-sized dogs with a thick, dense coat of fur.
That means they require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats and tangles.
Grooming your Clumber is not a difficult process, but it does require some time and effort.
Here are the basics:
Brushing
Brush your dog’s coat at least once a week to keep it healthy and free of mats and tangles.
Shampoo
Shampoo your dog’s coat at least once a month using a canine-specific shampoo.
Nails
Trim your dog’s nails regularly to avoid overgrowth and splitting.
Ears
Check your dog’s ears regularly for wax build-up, dirt, and other signs of infection.
Teeth
Brush your dog’s teeth at least once a week to keep them healthy and free of tartar buildup.
Feeding Your Clumber spaniel
Clumber spaniels are active dogs who need a nutritious diet to fuel their daily adventures.
Here’s what you need to know about feeding your Clumber the right way.
Clumber Spaniels need a high-quality diet to stay healthy and active.
Feed them the best dog food that you can afford. Spaniels enjoy raw, tripe based foods mixed with a good quality dry food.
Follow the recommendations on the food to make sure that your pet is getting sufficient nutrition.
Avoid feeding them table scraps, as this can lead to weight gain and health problems.
Be sure to provide plenty of water to keep your dog hydrated.
Common health problems in Clumber spaniels
Like all breeds of dogs, Clumber Spaniels are susceptible to certain health problems.
Some of the most common include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
Your vet is always the best source of advice when it comes to your dog’s health and, if you have any concerns, then you should always consult them.
How to Choose the Right Puppy for You
When choosing a Clumber spaniel puppy, it’s important to find one that is well-suited to your lifestyle and personality.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a Clumber puppy.
Consider your lifestyle and personality. Clumber spaniels are active dogs who need plenty of exercise, so make sure you are able to provide that before choosing a puppy.
They are also loyal and affectionate companions, so if you’re looking for a cuddly dog, the Clumber is a good choice.
Do your research. There are many reputable breeders out there who sell healthy, well-socialized puppies.
Make sure you visit the breeder’s facility and meet the parents of the puppies before making a decision.
Ask lots of questions. Good breeders will be happy to answer all of your questions about the breed, the parents of the puppies, and the breeding process.
They should also offer a health guarantee for their puppies.
Get insurance. Puppies are expensive to care for, so it’s important to have pet insurance in case of accidents or unexpected vet bills.
To sum up
Clumber Spaniels are loyal, affectionate dogs who make great companions. They are active and need plenty of exercise, so they are best suited for owners who are able to provide that.
They are great for active people and love being around children too.
Always look for a reputable breeder and be sure to ask lots of questions before bringing home your new puppy.
Get pet insurance to help cover unexpected vet bills.
With proper care, your Clumber spaniel will be a happy and healthy member of your family for years to come.