Cluminger Spaniel

The Cluminger Spaniel is a cross between the Clumber Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Cluminger Spaniel. 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

English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized, well-proportioned sporting dog that presents a balanced and useful form built for endurance and agility in the field. Males stand approximately 20 inches at the withers and weigh around 50 pounds, while females measure about 19 inches and weigh closer to 40 pounds. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, measured from the shoulder to the buttocks versus height at the withers, creating proportions that ensure agility and fluid movement. The breed should appear sturdy and compact without being bulky, combining sufficient substance for a day's work with the athleticism required for covering varied terrain. The English Springer Spaniel possesses a double coat that provides insulation and protection whether working on land or in water. The outer coat is medium in length, flat or wavy, and lies close to the body with a texture that is neither too coarse nor too silky. Moderate feathering appears on the ears, chest, legs, and belly, while the hair is short and fine on the head and front of the legs. Common color patterns include liver and white or black and white, often with tan markings in the eyebrow, cheek, ear, and under-tail areas. Blue or liver roan patterns are also seen. The breed is notable for having two distinct types: field-bred dogs tend to be lighter and faster, while show-bred dogs are heavier with more coat. The head of the English Springer Spaniel is impressive without being heavy, featuring a medium-length skull that is fairly broad and slightly rounded. The stop is moderate, and the muzzle is approximately the same length as the skull. The expressive eyes are medium-sized, oval-shaped, and set fairly apart, with colors ranging from dark hazel in liver dogs to dark brown in black-and-white dogs. The long, wide ears hang close to the cheeks, set on line with the eye and reaching the tip of the nose when pulled forward. The tail is typically docked where legal or carried level with the back when natural. Movement is ground-covering, free, and easy, with good reach in front and strong drive from the rear.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Energy levels in the English Springer Spaniel are above average, and the breed requires substantial daily exercise to remain physically and mentally balanced. Long walks, swimming, retrieving games, and off-leash running in secure areas help satisfy their activity needs. Without adequate exercise, Springers may develop behavioral problems stemming from boredom and excess energy. The breed can adapt to various living situations including apartments if exercise requirements are met, but they are generally happiest when they have access to outdoor space. Their enthusiasm and sometimes exuberant nature means they benefit from consistent training, as their friendly bouncing can overwhelm small children or elderly individuals.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The breed's characteristic long, pendulous ears create warm, moist environments that predispose them to ear infections. Regular cleaning and monitoring can help prevent chronic problems. A 2024 UK study found the average life expectancy for English Springer Spaniels to be approximately 13.5 years, comparing favorably to many breeds of similar size. Some lines may carry genes for phosphofructokinase deficiency, a metabolic disorder affecting red blood cells and muscle function, though genetic testing allows breeders to avoid producing affected puppies. Other conditions occasionally seen in the breed include autoimmune diseases and epilepsy. Selecting a puppy from health-tested parents and maintaining regular veterinary care helps ensure the best possible outcome for these enthusiastic companions.
Learn More About The English Springer Spaniel

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 Cluminger Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.