Personality

Clumber Spaniels are odd-looking, bottom heavy dogs who usually have no idea just how big they really are. They will try to climb on laps, or will lay on feet, with complete disregard for the comfort level of the person they are smothering. They are a happy breed, eager to greet anyone and everyone at the door. Clumbers are not guard dogs, they'll happily walk away with a stranger if you aren't paying attention. Excited Clumbers will pick up the nearest item that will fit in their mouths and shake their entire rear end while tail-wagging, which can lead to hours of laughter. They are polite dogs who rarely make a nuisance of themselves and would much rather sunbathe than alert you that the mailman is approaching.

Activity Requirements

Clumbers are very lazy indoors and may need a bit of prodding to leave the house, but don't let their laziness fool you - Clumbers need lots of activity. Luckily, their requirement is easy to fulfill. Daily brisk walks will do it, as Clumbers are not runners. They love to fetch, and can be entertained for hours with a ball and someone willing to throw. They can be raised in the city or the suburbs, though city dwellers should have a large enough living space that this “bull in a china shop” can move around in without knocking things over.

Trainability

Clumbers are moderately easy to train. Positive reinforcement and a lot of treats are the only way to get a Clumber to do what you want them to do, but they pick up on commands quickly when they learn there is food in the deal. Treating a Clumber with a harsh hand will result in his absolute refusal to move. A Clumber who doesn't appreciate a trainer's tone will sit down and refuse to go any farther, so patience and enthusiasm must always be employed. Consistency is also very important when training a Clumber. They are like teenagers, always looking for a loophole in the rules and will test boundaries daily.

Behavioral Traits

Clumbers are easy-going companions with very few behavioral problems as a breed. Separation Anxiety can lead to destructive behaviors, however. Proper exercise and mental stimulation can keep anxiety from developing.