Clumberstiff

The Clumberstiff is a cross between the Clumber Spaniel and the Bullmastiff. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Clumberstiff. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel is the largest of all spaniel breeds, presenting a distinctive long, low, and substantial silhouette that immediately sets it apart from other sporting dogs. Males typically stand between 18 to 20 inches at the withers and weigh between 70 to 85 pounds, while females measure 17 to 19 inches and weigh 55 to 70 pounds. The breed possesses a rectangular body shape with massive bone structure, giving it an appearance of great power and endurance. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs that provide ample lung capacity for sustained field work. The Clumber's coat is dense, straight, and flat with a weather-resistant texture that feels soft to the touch rather than harsh. The ears feature slight feathering with straight hair, while the legs and belly display moderate feathering. A distinctive neck frill adorns this breed, and the standard specifically prohibits shaving of the throat area. The predominant coat color is white with lemon or orange markings, which historically helped hunters spot their dogs while working within gun range. Markings commonly appear on one or both ears and the face, including color around the eyes, freckling on the muzzle, and occasionally a spot on top of the head. One of the most striking features of the Clumber Spaniel is its massive head with a heavy, furrowed brow that creates a pensive, thoughtful expression. The skull is broad with well-developed cheeks, and the muzzle is square when viewed from the side. The eyes are large, deep-set, and dark amber in color, contributing to the breed's characteristic soulful look. The triangular ears are set at eye level with rounded lower edges, hanging close to the head. Despite their hefty build, Clumber Spaniels move with surprising fluidity and grace, displaying a characteristic rolling gait that results from their short legs and wide body.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their hunting heritage, Clumber Spaniels have relatively moderate exercise needs and adapt well to various living situations. They enjoy daily walks, play sessions, and interactive activities, but don't require the intense exercise regimens of higher-energy breeds. The Clumber's relaxed and somewhat sedate demeanor makes it well-suited for quieter households. True to their spaniel heritage, they love to chew, carry objects, and retrieve. This breed generally gets along well with children and other pets, though they tend to be more reserved around unfamiliar dogs until they've had time to warm up to them.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Due to their long backs and heavy build, Clumber Spaniels have some predisposition to intervertebral disc disease affecting the cervical and thoracic spine. A 2024 UK study found the breed's life expectancy averages 12.3 years. Other considerations include ear infections due to their pendant ear structure, impacted anal glands requiring occasional veterinary attention, sensitivity to heat requiring access to shade and water, and some difficulty with conception and whelping. Responsible breeders conduct health screenings on breeding stock and track health issues within their lines to produce healthier puppies.
Learn More About The Clumber Spaniel

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a large, powerfully built dog that presents an impressive combination of strength and athleticism. Males stand 25 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 110 to 130 pounds, while females measure 24 to 26 inches and weigh 100 to 120 pounds. The breed standard favors the heavier dog within these ranges, emphasizing the substantial build that defines this guardian breed. The body is symmetrical and compact, appearing nearly square when viewed from the side, with a level back and well-developed musculature throughout. The chest is wide and deep, let down well between the forelegs, contributing to the breed's formidable appearance. The Bullmastiff's head is broad and wrinkled, with well-developed cheeks and a fair amount of wrinkling visible when the dog is alert. The skull is large and square, with a circumference that may equal the dog's height at the shoulder. The muzzle is relatively short and square, a hallmark feature resulting from the breed's Bulldog ancestry. The nose is black with large, broad nostrils. The eyes are dark hazel and medium-sized, set wide apart with an alert, intelligent expression. The V-shaped ears are set wide and high on the skull, level with the occiput, folding forward and lying close to the cheeks to give the head a squared appearance. The coat is short, smooth, and dense, providing effective protection against inclement weather while requiring minimal grooming. Acceptable colors are fawn, red, and brindle, all with a dark muzzle that shades off toward the eyes. A small white marking on the chest is permissible but not preferred. The tail is set high, strong at the root, and tapers to the hocks, carried straight or curved but never hound-fashion. Movement is powerful and purposeful, with good reach in front and strong drive from the rear. The legs move parallel and do not cross or interfere, while the back remains firm and level throughout the gait.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Bullmastiffs possess an independent streak combined with a cooperative willingness to please, though they can be stubborn if they perceive inconsistent leadership. Training should begin early and remain consistent, using positive reinforcement methods to engage this intelligent breed. They bond deeply with their families and prefer to be near their people, despite their ability to tolerate some time alone. The breed requires moderate exercise, enjoying daily walks and play sessions without demanding the intensive activity levels of sporting breeds. Potential owners should be aware that Bullmastiffs are known for drooling, snoring, and occasional flatulence. While generally tolerant of other household pets when properly socialized, some individuals may display dog-directed aggression, particularly toward dogs of the same sex.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly called bloat or GDV, is a life-threatening emergency to which deep-chested breeds like the Bullmastiff are particularly susceptible. In this condition, the stomach fills with gas and may twist on itself, cutting off blood supply and causing rapid deterioration. Without immediate emergency treatment, death can occur within 30 minutes to several hours. Preventive surgery called gastropexy, which tacks the stomach in place, can significantly reduce this risk and is often recommended at the time of spaying or neutering. Other health concerns include entropion, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, and arthritis in older dogs. Prospective owners should select puppies from health-tested parents and maintain regular veterinary care throughout the dog's life.
Learn More About The Bullmastiff

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Clumberstiff may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Clumber Spaniel and Bullmastiff to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.