Thinking about a Clumber?
Meet the Breed
If you are thinking about getting a Clumber Spaniel, it is always a good idea to meet some adult dogs first.
All puppies are adorable, especially Clumbers!
But it is important to find out what they will be like when they grow up, and what life with a Clumber is really like.
Throughout the year, Clumber Spaniels and their owners attend a variety of ‘Meet the Breed’ events, where you can meet adult dogs, chat to their owners and find out more about living with a Clumber.
Meet the Breed events
Find the right event for you
Different events show different sides of the Clumber, so it is worth thinking about what you would like to find out.
Discover Dogs & pet shows
The Clumber as a family pet
These events tend to focus on Clumbers as family pets. They give you the opportunity to meet the dogs, get up close and talk to owners about their experiences.
Game fairs & country shows
The Clumber at work
Here the emphasis is more on the Clumber’s working abilities and the activities they can take part in.
Whichever type of event you visit, the people on the stand will be happy to tell you about the many joys of owning a Clumber, as well as being honest about some of the challenges. We will also explain the health issues you should consider before choosing a puppy, and there will be information to take away about the breed and the wide range of activities you can enjoy with your Clumber.
Dog shows
See Clumbers in the ring
If your main interest is showing your Clumber, then attending a dog show is the best way to see Clumbers competing in the ring.
Dates for these and other shows can be found in the events section of this website.
See upcoming eventsMeet Clumbers & their owners
Relaxed, friendly and sociable
There are two other wonderful ways to meet Clumber Spaniels and their owners. Whether you enjoy a weekend away with fellow Clumber enthusiasts or a leisurely walk with your dog, these events are a great opportunity to share experiences, make new friends and enjoy time together.
Annual weekend · Wiltshire
Clumberfest
An annual gathering organised by Peter Sheppard. The event takes place over a weekend, and many people arrive a day or two early to camp, making it a lovely opportunity for an extended stay with fellow Clumber enthusiasts.
Visit Clumberfest.org ->
Organised walks · all year
Walking With Clumbers
A programme of organised walks throughout the year in a variety of locations, organised by Rod and Barbara Weston — a relaxed way to explore the countryside with your Clumber and meet other owners along the way.
Find upcoming walks and how to register on the Walking With Clumbers Facebook page.
Visit Facebok ->What to ask a Clumber owner
There is no better way to find out
…than by talking to someone who already owns one! Clumber owners are usually more than happy to talk about their dogs — the things they love, the things that make them laugh, and occasionally the things that make them wonder what on earth they were thinking!
Meeting several Clumbers and their owners will give you a much better idea of the breed and help you decide whether a Clumber is the right dog for you. Here are some questions you might like to ask:
What is your Clumber like at home?
Are they as laid-back as people say, or does your Clumber have a rather more energetic side?
How much exercise does your Clumber need?
What sort of walks do they enjoy, and how much do they need as they get older?
What are they like with children and other dogs?
How easy are they to train?
What works best for your Clumber, and what definitely doesn’t?
How much grooming do they need?
And just how much hair should you expect to find around the house?
Do they drool?
It is always better to ask an experienced owner than to discover this for yourself!
What are they like when left alone?
What are they like around the house?
Do they sleep all day, follow you everywhere, or find their own ways of keeping you entertained?
What health issues have you encountered?
What would you recommend a new owner learns about before choosing a puppy?
What do you wish you had known before getting your first Clumber?
What is your favourite thing about owning a Clumber?
What is the most challenging thing about owning one?
And finally — would you have another Clumber? Why?
Don’t worry if you end up chatting for much longer than you intended — Clumber people are generally very good at talking about their dogs!
Making the right choice
Every Clumber is an individual
Experiences will vary. Meeting several dogs of different ages and talking to their owners will give you a much more realistic picture of the breed than simply looking at photographs of gorgeous puppies.
And remember, we want you to choose the right dog for you just as much as you do. A Clumber is a wonderful companion, but they are not the right breed for everyone. Taking the time to meet some adult Clumbers, ask questions and find out about the good and the not-so-good will help you make an informed decision.
Find a Meet the Breed eventAnd if you do decide that a Clumber is for you, you will have made some Clumber friends along the way!