Clumber Spaniels are large dogs, low to the ground, with a heavy bone structure. They have very broad chests, which sport an apron of long hair. The nose is either flesh-colored or brown and the eyes of the Clumber are amber in color. Their front legs are straight and heavy and their feet are webbed to aid in swimming. Clumbers have dewclaws which may or may not be removed. Docking of the tail is a common practice, although it is illegal in many parts of Europe. They have a medium-length, thick coat that requires daily brushing and mostly white in color with orange or lemon colored markings at the ears, eyes or head. Some Clumbers have spots on their muzzles which resemble freckles, which are undesirable in the show ring but do not disqualify a Clumber from being a companion.
Size and Weight
The ideal height for a Clumber Spaniel is 18 to 20 inches at the withers for males and 17 to 19 inches for females. Males should weigh between 70 and 85 pounds, while females will weigh in slightly lighter- between 55 and 70.
The Clumber is rectangular in shape possessing massive bone structure and has the appearance of great power. The ideal height for dogs is 18 to 20 inches at the withers and for bitches is 17 to 19 inches at the withers. The ideal length to height is 11 to 9 measured from the withers to the base of the tail and from the floor to the withers. Dogs weigh between 70 and 85 pounds and bitches weigh between 55 and 70 pounds.
Coat and Color
The Clumber's coat is medium in length, thick, straight and soft. It lies flat against the body except on the ears, legs and belly, where they have light feathering. The longer frill of hair at the neck is often called the Clumber's apron. Show Clumbers are not to be shaved or trimmed other than the feet, tail and back legs, as a natural appearance is desirable.
Clumbers are mostly white with orange or lemon colored markings at the ears, eyes or head. Some Clumbers have spots on their muzzles which resemble freckles, which are undesirable in the show ring but do not disqualify a Clumber from being a companion.
Clumbers shed year round, and during season changes can shed quite heavily. Brushing should be conducted on a daily basis to minimize debris around the house, as well as removing loose hair from the dog's body. Trimming may be done on the rear legs, tail or feet and a breeder can teach the proper technique.
The white coloring of the Clumber can make the dog appear dirty more often than he looks clean. But regular bathing won't damage the dog's coat, as long as the shampoo is made for dogs and is a gentle formula for frequent baths.
A Clumber's ears should be checked every week for signs of irritation and infection. Because the ears hang, they can be prone to wax and bacterial build up. Use only a veterinarian-approved solution when cleaning a dog's ears. Teeth should be brushed weekly to prevent bad breath, gum disease and tooth loss, and if the dog goes not naturally wear down his toenails, monthly trimmings may be required.