The Clumber Spaniel is a very good looking dog. At first glance, they are affectionate and they are very loyal pets. They work well in most family situations and often with other dogs and pets that they do not see as their prey. They are not the right dog for everyone though. In fact, the Clumber Spaniel may not be for you if you are looking for a couch dog or lap dog. These dogs may look cumbersome and boring, but they are anything but. With their sharp mind and their key sense of adventure, you may be in for a surprise if you leave them unattended!

They May Irritate

If you have been studying these dogs or have learned about them in the Clumber Spaniel circle, then you may have heard about an interesting and often irritating quality of these dogs known as "counter surfing." Consider your kitchen counter tops as fair game for them. In fact, anything that is positioned out of their reach or is deemed not for them is fair game to them. They are widely known for doing whatever it takes physically and mentally to get what they want. They are inventive in that they will find a way to get into what you tell them they should not be getting into. It is not unknown for these dogs to open up kitchen drawers and use them to climb up to counter tops. You may even notice them pulling open your refrigerator door.

How can a dog like this accomplish these considerations? In truth, the Clumber Spaniel is a highly intelligent dog willing and able to find solutions to their problems or concerns. They are willing to work at finding a way into that refrigerator when you are not watching. On top of their agile mind, their bodies are just as willing to help out in this pursuit. As strong and agile dogs, they are able to get on top of counter tops and into drawers that you thought you had protected.

Other Conditions That May Not Be Pleasing

Consider the Clumber Spaniel as a dog with many gifts. Some other areas where you may be less likely to enjoy include the following. Their coat is dense and easy to grab onto. In other words, they often have burs and leaves attached to them when they come indoors and dust is easily attached to them as well. This means a bit more work keeping them clean. In addition, most will shed throughout the year rather than one or two times a year like other breeds. Finally, another less than quality factor about these dogs is their mouth. With that large, over hung lip, they often drool to their heart's content and you get to clean up what's left behind.

Although affectionate and smart learners, getting through these elements may not be what you are looking for. Consider these dogs when and if you decide that you can overlook their limited flaws. Clumber Spaniels are by all means a wonderful choice if you can overlook these qualities.