Difference Between Clumber Spaniel and Brittany Spaniel

There are many spaniel breeds around, both native to the UK and abroad, prized for their field abilities and as affectionate family companions. Two breeds worth considering for an intelligent, active canine companion are the Clumber Spaniel puppies and the Brittany Spaniel puppies. This guide compares their origins, temperaments, care needs, and suitability as pets.

Clumber Spaniel Origins

The Clumber Spaniel is one of Britain's oldest working spaniel breeds, originally bred for hunting in dense cover. It is believed the Duke of Newcastle named the breed after his estate, Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire. Some enthusiasts speculate French spaniels influenced the breed, but it is primarily considered English.

Brittany Spaniel Origins

The Brittany Spaniel hails from France, bred for pointing and retrieving game. English hunters visiting France interbred their dogs with local spaniel types, creating the Brittany. Today, the breed remains a highly prized working gundog in Europe and a popular family pet.

Clumber Spaniel Temperament

Clumbers are calm, even-tempered, and affectionate, making them excellent for first-time dog owners. They form strong bonds with family and enjoy participating in household life. While they can be independent, this should not be mistaken for stubbornness. Clumbers tend to be wary but not aggressive towards strangers.

Brittany Spaniel Temperament

Brittany Spaniels are energetic, intelligent, and affectionate dogs who flourish with plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They require higher exercise levels and attention but are wonderfully loyal companions. Their friendly nature makes them great family pets if their activity needs are met.

Shedding and Grooming

Clumber Spaniels shed considerably year-round with heavier shedding in spring and autumn. Their silky, dense coats require regular grooming to keep healthy. Brittany Spaniels shed less but still benefit from regular brushing, which helps manage their dense, flat, or slightly wavy coats with feathering on legs.

Training and Behaviour

Both breeds are intelligent and eager to please. Clumbers are patient learners, enjoying consistent but gentle training. Brittany Spaniels are quick learners but may pick up undesirable behaviours if not trained consistently from a young age. Early socialisation is essential for both breeds to foster well-rounded temperaments.

Exercise Needs

Clumbers require moderate daily exercise — about an hour is sufficient for adults, with young dogs needing less as their bones develop. Brittany Spaniels are high-energy and need at least two hours of varied exercise daily, including off-lead time, to remain content and well-behaved.

Children and Other Pets

Clumber Spaniels are tolerant and gentle with children and family pets, thriving in busy household environments. With proper socialisation, they generally coexist well with other dogs. Care should be exercised around smaller animals. Brittany Spaniels share these traits but may have a stronger prey drive; early socialisation is important.

Coat Colours

Clumbers typically have a white coat with lemon or orange markings, featuring silky, straight fur and feathering on legs and chest. Brittany Spaniels offer a wider variety, including orange & white, liver & white, black & white, tri-colour, and roan coats, with close-lying flat or slightly wavy fur and feathered legs.

Health Considerations

Both breeds have some hereditary health concerns. Clumbers can suffer from hip dysplasia, eye conditions (entropion, ectropion), and spinal disc problems. Brittany Spaniels may have hip dysplasia, epilepsy, luxating patella, Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), and ear problems. Responsible breeders screen for these issues to ensure healthier puppies.

Life Expectancy

With proper care and diet, Clumber Spaniels typically live between 9 and 15 years. Brittany Spaniels have a slightly shorter average lifespan of 12 to 13 years but remain vigorous with appropriate healthcare and exercise.

Responsible Ownership and Finding a Puppy

When considering either breed, it's vital to source puppies from reputable, reputable Clumber Spaniel breeders or Brittany Spaniel breeders who prioritise health testing and ethical breeding. This supports the long-term wellbeing of the dogs and helps ensure your new companion is a happy, healthy addition to your family.

Remember to prepare your home and lifestyle for the breed's exercise and social needs, and provide consistent training and socialisation from puppyhood onwards for the best results.