Despite the Clumber being in Britain for over 200 years, the breed is very scarce and rarely witnessed in this country. In 2015, there were only 214 Clumbers registered with the Kennel Club. Although this isn't the lowest figure to date, it means that the breed still finds itself on the vulnerable native breeds list.

Jackie Sheppard, who is a breeder of Clumbers and has owned them for more than 10 years, can vouch for their fantastic temperament and doesn't understand why they aren't more popular. "They have so much character, a real laid-back attitude; they're a great size, and generally a very calm dog - they've got similar qualities and traits to other spaniels, but they're not as hyper as other spaniels can be," said Jackie. "They're loving and like to know where you are, but they're not what I like to call a ‘Velcro dog' - they don't have to be stuck by your side all the time.

"However, they do shed a lot (you find their hair in places where they haven't even been!), and they are heavy dogs, which may put some people off. Maybe they aren't athletic enough for some people, as those who want a big dog often want to do lots of activities with them. Clumbers will still have a go at activities, such as agility, but they're not really competitive."

Clumber Spaniel character

Clumber Spaniel history

The Clumber Spaniel is one of the oldest breeds of spaniel and was brought to Britain by the Duke of Newcastle more than 200 years ago where they were bred at his family home of Clumber Park, in Nottinghamshire. These dogs are commonly associated with royalty, as during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries they found themselves in the home of several British royals - first Prince Albert, and then Kings Edward VII and George V. King George V bred many working and show Clumbers at his Sandringham estate, including a champion called Sandringham Spark. However, the breed's numbers declined after the First World War until the mid 1960s, when its fate was in the hands of a few dedicated breeders who managed to maintain the qualities of the breed. Despite this, the Clumber Spaniel is still on the vulnerable native breeds list. The Clumber is one of the oldest breeds of spaniel.

Clumber Spaniel size

Clumber Spaniel health

Clumber Spaniel activity levels

It's important not to over-exercise them when they are puppies because they are heavy dogs who grow quickly. You don't want them running around with other dogs for prolonged periods of time, or clambering up the stairs. This doesn't mean that they can't go out and socialise though, as this is important. Although they are big dogs and can go for long walks, they are not for someone who wants to go out and do loads of intense activity, however they can still have a go at a wide range of activities, including agility.

Clumber Spaniel special care