The English Springer Spaniel is a wonderfully versatile companion – capable of hunting, doing highly competitive obedience work, as well as being a terrific family pet. English Springers compete in agility, work as service dogs, and some even work in law enforcement! Prospective owners should know that there can be a divide in the breed. This means some bloodlines are more suited to being hunting dogs while other lines are more apt at different talents. While many reputable breeders are working on bridging this gap, they generally advise new owners to do their homework before bringing home a puppy. For example, while Most English Springers will have a hunting instinct… but some will be stronger than others. If this is a desired quality, obtain a dog from a kennel that breeds for hunting traits (field lines) or you may be disappointed.

The English Springer is a natural when it comes to training. Generally easy to teach, they can often reach the highest levels when brought to the competitive obedience ring. Every Springer needs to have training, however – whether or not the owner wants to compete. An untrained dog can quickly turn into a nightmare, especially active intelligent ones bred for working purposes (like the Springer). General destructiveness, as well as excessive barking are typical problems in the breed if they do not have clear and consistent training. At worst, some Springers can become aggressive if not given this all-important structure.

Friendly and affectionate with everyone, the English Springer remains playful throughout his years. He bonds very strongly to his owner and prefers to be in a home where he is not left alone all day. Although a hard worker and devoted companion (many will do almost anything you ask them to do, provided you give them training), he still enjoys coming home and relaxing on the couch. Ever alert, however – even after he has settled down for the night – he will still bark to alert if someone comes creeping around the house.

This breed is known to be active and require moderate to high amounts of exercise! Unfortunately, many English Springers sitting in rescue organizations lost their homes because their previous owners didn’t realize how much energy they have. Daily exercise is a necessity – jogging, swimming and retrieving are favorite activities but anything that will get them out and moving (quickly) will do. The good news is that they are not a “bouncing off the walls” breed inside the house as long as they have been allowed to burn off steam regularly. The bad news is that many households don’t allow their dogs to exercise and burn off this steam. Potential owners should take a good look at their lives and decide realistically if they are active enough to own a Springer.

For the most part, the English Springer gets along amiably with other dogs. His sweet disposition and patient nature also makes him a great companion for children. He may not be the best buddy to a home with birds, however – which is understandable as he was bred to hunt fowl! When it comes to meeting new people, this breed is normally quite friendly. They don’t make the greatest guard dogs for this reason, although they can make decent watch dogs as they will bark when people come to the door.

The English Springer Spaniel does require regular grooming and should only be owned by those who have the time and energy to keep up with these needs. The coat will need to be brushed at least 3-4 times a week (sometimes more for show lines) and bathed 1-2 times a month. The long ears must be cleaned weekly. Trimming and scissoring is also required for this breed, meaning that the owner must learn how to do it themselves or be prepared to bring the dog to a groomer regularly. It also should be noted that the English Springer does shed!

Photo By Elf at the English language Wikipedia

The largest of the spaniels is the Irish Water Spaniel, originally bred for retrieving birds from both land and water. Loyal and possessing a keen sense of humor, the breed has been called “the best kept secret of the dog world.” To start, the IWS is normally quiet around the house and doesn’t bark very often – a trait which separates him from other members of the spaniel family.

The IWS is a great family dog and is exceptional with children. Active and energetic, they prefer to be “in on the action” and enjoy taking part in family activities. The breed actually prefers living in a family situation rather than with only one owner. They can also be somewhat protective of their families (some make great guard dogs) and are not naturally trusting of strangers. When out on a walk, they are often aloof around those they haven’t met. With other dogs and small pets, it is dependent upon the IWS as to whether or not they will get along well.

The breed is considered easy to train, and they learn fairly quickly. Some of them can be stubborn at times and others might “test” their owners, particularly adolescent dogs. Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent dogs and take well to obedience training but they might put their own spin on things… they are well-known for their senses of humor! Although they can be fantastic performers in the obedience ring, individuals who want a dog to be a top competitor in obedience competitions might want to look for a different breed. Handlers must have a certain sense of humor of their own when it comes to competing with this breed!

When it comes to coat care,the IWS requires a medium amount of work. The coat needs to be combed out once a week – taking care to reach the skin – and the dog will need to be scissored every 6 weeks or so. Baths should be given on a regular basis (every 3-4 weeks) but take note… it can be difficult to get water and shampoo all the way through the coat to the skin! These dogs were bred to be water-proof so it will take some work getting them wet! While their curly coat does shed a little, it is not much. Some allergy sufferers have also discovered that they are not allergic to this breed (although it is always recommended that allergy-suffering potential owners test this out before acquiring a puppy).

There does seem to be a difference in temperament between the sexes. Male Irish Water Spaniels adore their owners and seek to always be in the middle of what they are doing – which could be just as obnoxious as it is endearing. Females are more laid-back in temperament although still loving. Those who are looking for a low-key personality would probably be better seeking a female while a male might be just the thing for owners looking for a clown!

As with most other gun dogs, the IWS does need regular exercise. Walks, biking and hiking will do… although swimming is a favorite activity! They do not do well with owners who work all day either, even if the owner comes home and immediately walks the dog. Many will become bored and therefore destructive. They definitely need both the steady companionship as well as regular activity from at-home (or mostly home) families. Houses with yards are much preferred over apartments – these dogs are generally too active for apartment life.

As with all breeds, there are unfortunately a few health problems to look out for. One such issue includes sometimes-fatal reactions to certain drugs and vaccines. Owners must be an advocate for their dog and never allow these meds to enter their dogs’ systems. Other health issues include allergies, chronic ear infections, seizures, and joint problems. On average, however, this breed is fairly hardy – many will hunt in the fields and water all day long if given the chance!

Photo By Pleple2000

The Vizsla is a beautiful, athletic dog that often draws attention wherever he goes. At home, he is cuddly and affectionate with his owner, often following his “people” around from room to room. This trait has earned him the nickname as a velcro dog. He is known to have a “soft” temperament, meaning that he is sensitive and doesn’t do well with people who are loud and intense. This also means that he needs to be socialized extensively from a young age so that he won’t be anxious and phobic of new situations and people when he grows up. All puppies have certain stages when it is critical to socialize them before the window of opportunity is closed forever, but this is especially true for Vizslas.

This breed is active and definitely requires at least an hour of strenuous exercise a day. A short walk is absolutely not enough, nor is it enough just to have a big yard (most dogs won’t just exercise themselves in a yard – many will just lay around). Vizslas need to actually be taken out on a jog or hike with their owners in order to burn off their energy. A bored Vizsla that doesn’t get enough exercise may become destructive in the house. They require this commitment from someone who is active and athletic themselves – these dogs are strong and normally too much for owners that are frail.

This breed is quite intelligent but can take a while to mature fully, sometimes until the age of 4. They may act like puppies for longer than many breeds – which could either be fun or frustrating depending. For the owner that is looking to compete in obedience, they should be aware that they will be working through puppy antics for a while. There is also a stubborn streak in the breed, although easily overcome if the owner or trainer has patience. This said, the Vizsla is usually eager to please and really wants to do right by his owner! As long as the training sessions are kept generally positive – as Vizslas are indeed sensitive to harsh and unfair corrections – they are certainly very trainable.

Grooming is quite an easy task with the Vizsla. Their short, thin coat does shed but is normally not a problem except for the most fastidiously clean people. The breed also prefers being clean and will lick and groom themselves like a cat! Keeping up with nails, cleaning ears, and brushing teeth is about all that needs to be done, as well as a short brushing ever now and again. Baths can be given when needed, but probably won’t be required any more often than every month or two.

The Vizsla is not a guard dog and should never be aggressive, although he may bark at a person he feels may be threatening his family. This breed normally loves people, as well as children. They can be good dogs for families, as long as parents are aware that Vizslas are active, strong and athletic. This means that they may accidentally knock a small child over, or possibly nip if playing ball. This is not aggression… it is the outcome of an exuberant hunting dog. It is recommended that kids be at least 10 years old. The breed also gets along great with other dogs and is normally happy and playful as a member of a multi-dog household.

The Vizsla’s intelligence can be a hinderance as well as a source of amusement. It is not uncommon for them to figure out how to open doors, cupboards, and manage all sorts of other mischief. Vizslas that are left outside for long periods of time may dig holes in the backyard or under a fence. This is most common when they become bored and they decide to invent new games to play! As many of their “games” can actually be frustrating to their owners, it is best to provide them with all sorts of intellectual outlets. Obedience is a great one, as are other dog sports. Even puzzles and games made specifically for dogs can be helpful to keep their minds busy. Many breeders also recommend keeping Vizslas crated when owners are gone to keep them out of trouble, although a well-trained dog is less likely to get into things.

Photo By Steffen HeinzCaronna

The Labrador Retriever is currently the most popular dog in the United States, and for good reason! Labs are incredibly versatile dogs – great with families, hunters, and single owners alike. Many are used as service dogs and guide dogs for the blind. As long as they are purchased from reputable breeders, from a bloodline that would suite each individual’s preference (hunting strain vs show strain, for example), this breed can fit well into many lifestyles. This is not to say that Labs can work for everyone, however. There are a few particulars that a would-be owner should be aware of before acquiring a puppy.

Because Labradors were originally bred as hunting retrievers, they generally have a lot of energy. Furthermore, if the dog is from field lines, expect that energy to be particularly high! Some people are surprised at just how much energy the Labrador has, particularly if it is a young dog. Several long jogs may be required every day, mixed in with some ball or frisbee retrieval. People who are couch potatoes might be better off rescuing an older dog with an already-established calm temperament but even still, all Labs need to have some exercise. It is not fair (even for an older Lab) if they are kept inside all day and not given a daily walk (at very least).

Labs also need mental stimulation in the form of regular training and other activities that encourage them to use their brains. Labradors that are not given these things can sometimes cause trouble around the house out of sheer boredom. Puppies and younger dogs are the normal culprits of these types of mischief, while more mature members of the breed are more considerate of your home and possessions. Either way, however, a Lab should never be kept in a crate or other confined space all day with nothing to do.

One of the breed’s hallmarks is their happy, outgoing personality. Their popularity today has a lot to do with how friendly, sociable and even-tempered the breed is. Many are considered “bomb-proof” meaning that it takes a lot to frighten or shake them. Because of this, they are usually excellent with young children. Most Labs are also great with other dogs – aggression is not often seen. Their paramount temperament is one reason why the Labrador is often recommended for novice owners. 

Despite their friendly temperaments, many young Labs are so boisterous that they require firm, consistent training to keep them from leaping up on people and greeting people rudely. Many also need early leash training because they tend to pull excitedly when out for a walk. Their large size and bulky muscle means that they are very strong dogs – most people agree that trained Labs are much easier to live with than untrained ones! Luckily, training Labradors is generally a breeze! These dogs are very intelligent, have a strong focus, and often love to learn new things. They pick up commands quickly and are almost always ready to practice.

Labs love to retrieve, but they also love just holding objects in their mouths. Carrying things around from room to room is a common pastime, often without even causing damage to the object, as they were bred to have a “soft mouth”. However, some Labs take their oral fixations too far and will chew things up, especially puppies. This should be trained out of them as soon as possible. There are also many Labs who try to take advantage at feeding time, insisting that they are still hungry despite being fed normal rations. When left unchecked, Labs can become overweight quickly!

This breed is not generally a nuisance barker, although most will bark when someone comes to the door. Their large size and often-deep bark is usually enough of a deterrent for a would-be burglar, which is good because the Lab is definitely not a guard dog! This breed is far too trusting of strangers for that type of job, and many would greet an intruder with licks, tail wags and happy greetings! Here at The Academic Hound, we have experience with Labrador Retrievers. If you live in the Austin, TX area and are looking for a dog trainer, give us a call!

The English Setter is one of four breeds from the setter family. Setters are essentially pointing breeds, bred to work with hunters whose quarry is birds. Besides being beautiful, intelligent and great companions for hunting, English Setters are also terrific family dogs. Loyal beyond compare, the breed is completely devoted to their owners.

When it comes to strangers, most are very friendly. Level-headed and dependable, they are also excellent with children. Lastly, the breed standard calls for them to be gentle in temperament at all times. Because they are such good-natured dogs, the English Setter is probably not the first choice for someone searching for a protection dog. They will bark when someone comes to the door, and then normally quiet down once they get the “ok” from their owner that the stranger is welcome. This said, if someone were to break in and threaten their owner, the English Setter might react more aggressively although this would only happen in the most dire of circumstances.

Most English Setters are fairly easy to train, although the more complex commands you teach, the more the difficulty will rise. Although the breed is very smart and learns many things quickly, they are also somewhat independent. They were bred to work with people… but also to make their own decisions while out in the field. This conflict will start to show (in some dogs) when simple commands start turning into more intricate commands. The English Setter has a sensitive nature and should never be trained with unnecessarily harsh techniques. It should be mentioned that males often are more willing to please, while females are more likely to test their owners.

This is not a noisy breed, in fact they are very quiet and mellow in the house. Since English Setters do best inside the house anyway (they are not good kennel dogs or outside-only dogs), this is ideal for most owners as well. The best situation for this breed is to be a house dog with access to a fenced yard (and plenty of time with their owners). It is possible to keep an English Setter in an apartment, but they will need even more exercise in this situation. Whenever out, they need to be kept on-leash because their high prey drive may send them running to the first scampering rodent or flying bird.

When it comes to exercise, like most of the hunting breeds the English Setter does require somewhat vigorous daily “work outs”. A short walk is not enough, this breed needs a minimum of 30 minutes a day of running, jogging, hiking, or any other energetic activity. Think of this breed as an athlete that needs to be regularly conditioned, and you might have an idea of the exercise requirements. A well-exercised and well-trained English Setter can also participate in many different dog activities such as hunting, therapy, obedience, conformation, agility, rally, tracking, and CGC.

The coat of the English Setter does need a lot of care in order to keep it looking nice and free of mats. Coats should be brushed 3-4 times a week, and bathed anywhere from every 2-6 weeks. It is also worth noting that the beautiful patterning of the coat is not completely natural, and will need trimming in order to maintain the “look”. It is also important to keep nails trimmed, teeth cleaned, and ears free of dirt and debris (their ears can be prone to infections if not taken care of properly).

Normally, both male and female English Setters get along well with other dogs. In fact, because they don’t like to be alone it is recommended that they live with another dog if their owner is often at work. While most English Setters would prefer human companionship above all else, another dog can be a good substitute. This breed can also live in harmony with cats and other small pets, but only if the other animals live inside (so as not to trigger their prey drive).

Perhaps their biggest fault is the fact that English Setters like to eat, as well as to chew. They are very orally fixated! The breed can become master counter-surfers, as well as champion trash-diggers, if they think they can get at food. On a different, but related, note they may also chew up small items left around the house. This is where training will come into play! Establish the rules of the house from an early age and this won’t be as much of an issue. Do you own an English Setter? Are you looking for a dog trainer in the Austin, TX area? Call us today and tell us about your dog!

“Engelse setter”. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The Cocker Spaniel has charmed countless people – owners and admirers alike. As one of the most popular breeds in America, almost everyone has met a Cocker at one point in their life and many have fallen in love and hoped to one day own a Cocker of their very own. But as rich in personality as this breed is, they are certainly not for everyone. As with any breed, it is always highly advised to research the breed first, before buying.

The first thing to be aware of, in considering owning a Cocker, is that they have a LOT of hair! Not only does their hair naturally grow very long, but it is extremely thick as well. Even those who choose to keep their dog shaved down will find that they still need to spend a good amount of time keeping it clean and brushed out regularly. Cockers who are shaved down very close to the skin often develop skin irritations, so it is best to keep it on the longer end for the sake of the dog. Cockers with the full coat will need weekly baths and require a lot of brushing. Always remember to add ear cleaning to the grooming routine, as their long ears can easily become infected from dirt and grime.

The next subject is to emphasize just how important it is to obtain your Cocker from a good source, such as a responsible breeder. Unfortunately, as with all very popular breeds, there are many uninformed backyard breeders and puppy mills that breed dogs with no regard to health or temperament. Cockers that come from these sources often have nasty temperaments and/or crippling health problems. If you have ever met an aggressive or fearful Cocker Spaniel, 9 times out of 10 it came from bad breeding. Getting a dog from a responsible breeders vs. a pet shop or backyard breeder will make the difference of night and day.

This is a breed that loves their family, and wants to be close to them at all times. It is not rare at all for a Cocker to follow their owner from room to room… even the bathroom! They also generally tend to love strangers which does not make them suited to be guard dogs (although they do make great watch dogs – barking whenever anyone comes to the door).

This is a gentle and sensitive breed that doesn’t tend to overwhelm guests with relentless barking and jumping. It should be noted that most Cocker Spaniels also get along very well with children. Since they are small and not normally extremely exuberant, they don’t tend to knock kids down as with some larger breeds. However, they still make great play companions and are more than happy to run and play outside with children.

Tail almost always wagging, Cockers are a very happy bunch! Affectionate and loving, it is hard not to smile when a Cocker is by your side – their optimistic nature can be contagious! One thing that they are often optimistic about… the prospect of food! Most of them love food almost as much as they love people, and many will go to great lengths to try to steal human food whenever possible. Luckily, this is easily remedied with training.

As a result of their love of food (as well as genetics), Cockers tend to gain weight easily and must be exercised on a regular basis to keep them from becoming fat. This said, even slim Cockers need exercise! These dogs were bred to run in the fields with hunters all day so they do have a lot of energy that needs to be burned. As long as their exercise needs are met, they can live in apartments.

The Cocker is normally a great student when it comes to training, as he is quite eager to please. He can be sensitive to overly harsh corrections so it is important to be aware that you aren’t pushing him too far, too fast. Cockers with iffy temperaments might go so far as to growl or snap at a trainer when given a hard correction. While this should never be accepted, it is still important to note. Those that are trained can compete successfully in many canine events such as obedience, hunting test & trials, agility, and tracking!

Cockers usually get along very well with other dogs and are great for multi-dog households. Cockers love to be around their “human pack” but if their owners are gone, another dog can help keep away loneliness. Being social is very important for this breed! If they have no outlets to fulfill their need for socializing, they may become bored and could get destructive through chewing, digging, or excessive barking. As long as you provide enough exercise, companionship and training, a well-bred and socialized Cocker Spaniel will be an amazing pet! Here at The Academic Hound, we have experience with Cocker Spaniels. If you live in Travis or Hays county, TX and are looking for a dog trainer, give us a call!

“AmericanCockerSpaniel wb”. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever was bred to mimic the actions that foxes take when they hunt birds. What does this mean, exactly? Wild foxes that live near bodies of water will naturally dash about, play, and act silly with the intent of enticing curious birds to come a little closer. When the birds get close enough, the foxes grab them! Hunters in Nova Scotia noticed this and wanted to breed a dog that could do the same thing, with the exception of retrieving the birds (after the hunters shot them), rather than the dogs killing the birds themselves. Although this all sounds like a story born out of a fairy tale, it is entirely true!

Although they might look like small Golden Retrievers, Tollers (as they are affectionately known) have an entirely different temperament. Reserved and somewhat more cautious than the Golden, it is only once they warm up to a new person that they will start to show their playful side. They should never be outright shy. A normal Toller personality is stable, as well as happy without being exuberant. Once they are comfortable in their environment, they often become the life of the party!

They are smart dogs and may require their trainer to keep up with them! Although very attentive, they do tend to get bored with “the same old training routine” and do better when the trainer mixes it up a bit. That said, they are one of the easier breeds to get motivated. Compared to dogs that are only food-motivated, or only toy-motivated, most Tollers will work for anything! The breed is also sensitive, meaning they do not learn well when too much force is used in training. Tollers can be trained to compete in many different competitions, including conformation, retriever tests and trials, canine good citizen, coursing, tracking, agility, dock diving, flyball, obedience, and rally. Because they are a breed that loves trying new things, especially activities with their owners, Tollers would love for you to try them all!

Tollers make great dogs for hunters, but they are equally as rewarding for families who are able to fulfill their natural needs in other ways. For those individuals who don’t plan on taking their dog out hunting, they can still make their Toller happy by playing fetch in the backyard or taking their dog swimming at the lake! This is a breed that loves to go on road trips and explore new things. He is the perfect hiking companion! Providing both mental and physical stimulation is a “must” for this breed. His energy needs to be channeled into appropriate outlets so that he doesn’t become destructive (and if he is bored… he will). The Toller is considered to be a med-high energy dog and, although not hyperactive, does best with an active owner. At night, after he has been thoroughly exercised, he will gladly sit with you on the couch to watch tv.

The Toller normally gets along very well with other pets, and is rarely aggressive even to strange dogs. Although they may chase the family cat from time to time, it is almost always as a game and they do not normally do so with the intent to hurt or kill. Tollers also do well with children, making them excellent family dogs.

Outright aggression is very rare in this breed, but particularly dominant and/or manipulative Tollers might try to take the title of “alpha” if no one in the household is firm enough. As with any dog, boundaries need to be set and house rules enforced so that this does not happen.

Because they are retrievers, they tend to be very orally fixated. This means that they like to pick up objects and carry them around… often in the hopes that you might throw it for them to fetch! It is an owner’s job to teach them what they are, and are not, allowed to grab. This should be taught in early pupphood, along with teaching them not to mouth at people!

For the most part, Tollers don’t bark excessively which makes them great for people with close neighbors. They do, however, often bark an alert when someone comes to the house (although they might run away if someone breaks in). They also make a high-pitched sound when they are excited which has been nicknamed the “Toller Scream”. For evidence of this sound, a visit to YouTube will provide many examples.

It is important to note that these dogs do shed profusely a few times a year. They also tend to enjoy getting muddy or otherwise messy. They are not for clean freaks. If you have a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and are looking for a dog trainer in Travis or Hays county, TX, call us today!

The Clumber Spaniel is one of the first nine breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. Today, this old breed is still used for hunting but is also a delightful companion and house dog. The breed is very loyal and loving to their families, and their clownish sensibilities can provide constant amusement.

They are particularly good with children, although recommended only for older children who won’t be toppled over by the brute size of these dogs. They also generally tend to get along well with other pets. Some Clumbers love strangers while others are shy around guests. Either way, they do not make good guard dogs (or usually even watch dogs). Because of their love of people, Clumbers should not be “outside-only dogs”. They need to be around their owners in order to be truly happy.

A takeaway from their hunting heritage, many Clumbers enjoy picking up objects and carrying them around. Anything from their own toys, to your clothes, to whatever the nearest small object happens to be. This makes them excellent dogs for playing fetch and retrieve games! It should be noted that some Clumber Spaniels can be possessive of their toys/objects/food and it is vitally important to work with them as puppies and get them used to giving up these objects to humans. Because they enjoy having things in their mouths… it should go without saying that many Clumbers also like to chew. This can lead to all sort of destruction, including not only smaller objects but also furniture. Although furniture can be expensive to replace, chewed-up smaller objects such as clothing are usually more dangerous because they can lead to blockages and obstructions. Emergency surgery is required when a dog obtains an intestinal blockage, which is not only expensive in itself… but also very dangerous. Clumbers need to be trained to not chew/eat objects, but also should be supervised if they are particularly prone to this bad habit.

When mature, Clumbers do not require a great deal of exercise, which makes them great for people with a more sedentary lifestyle. This is not to say that they should never be taken for a walk – as all dogs should be walked or exercised regularly – just that they won’t need daily 3 mile romps. A short walk here and there, supplemented with a structured playtime, is usually sufficient for most Clumbers. In the house, the breed normally retains their easy-going couch potato mentality. Puppies, however, are more active.

As far as training is concerned, Clumbers are smart enough to get their own way. If they don’t feel like training, they will “dig in their heels” and flat-out refuse to work. For many people, this is enough to dissuade them from obedience training their dog. The trick is to recognize that if you work the dog through his stubborn faze, he will soon realize that training is the only option. This is not to say that one should be hard-handed with training, but only to be firm yet fair. Many Clumbers, despite their obstinate nature, are actually fairly sensitive animals and do not learn well when under stress. Once trained, there are many different competitive avenues to explore with your dog such as tracking, conformation, rally, therapy, hunting, obedience, agility and nose work!

Regular grooming is a must with the Clumber Spaniel. He should be fully brushed out 2-3 times a week, depending on his coat and lifestyle. The more he is brushed, the less he will shed, however… he will still shed no matter how much grooming you put into him. For some people, the amount of hair that he sheds is far too much. This is worth checking into if you are thinking about owning a Clumber. Coat care will also involve baths. Because he is low to the ground, he tends to get dirt and mud caught in the feathering of his belly and legs. If the coat care doesn’t dissuade you, make sure that you are ok with drool because Clumbers drool a lot!

Although not very tall (Clumbers are a medium sized breed), what they lack in added height they make up for in bulk. Males can weigh as much as 85 pounds! It is important to realize that this is normal for the breed, and although other breeds of that height would be considered obese at such a weight, it is typical for a Clumber. Because of their size, these dogs can eat quite a lot (and often will still try to steal human food left out on the counter).

Some female Clumbers are prone to submissive urination, especially when young. Luckily, this can be trained out in most cases. If this behavior doesn’t go away with behavior modification, it is worth taking your dog to the vet to rule out physical causes. Clumbers are healthy in many respects although some can be prone to bladder infections. While on the subject of health, it is worth mentioning that both hip dysplasia as well as entropion/ectropian are problematic in the breed.

Photo “Clumber spaniel glowa rybnik-kamien ppl” by Pleple2000