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A first time Clumber owner should carefully consider the genetic background of
the parents. Clumbers, like most "rare" breeds have a limited gene pool. They
are therefore sometimes diagnosed with eye and hip problems.
Some Clumbers have been diagnosed with eye problems. Retinal Dysplasia (RD) is a genetic defect present at birth in which the retina may be curved or
irregularly shaped and may also be detached. Responsible breeders
will check their litters by the age of 8 weeks, and will offer written documentation to the buyer, signed by a AVCO Board-Certified Veterinarian, of "clear eyes" or to the extent of any detected eye defects.
Most of the time, this condition if diagnosed in puppies does not get worse. For additional information on RD visit the CERF page on-line.
RD is caused by a simple recessive gene. It takes a defective gene from each parent to produce an affected dog; however, an unaffected dog could be a carrier of the gene. Dogs which are known carriers should not be bred.
Additionally, Clumbers are abnormally susecptible to eye problems known as entropion. Entropion is the rolling inwards of the eyelid, sometimes allowing the stiff rim of the lid to rub and irritate the eye. In Clumbers it seems to be the lower lids that cause the most problems. The lid may roll so far as to allow the hair on the lid to rub the eyeball itself. Depending on the dog this may cause considerable discomfort, corneal ulcers, infections and even blindness. For lucky owners the dog may be somewhat resistant to this abrasion.
Clumber owners should, on a daily basis, place a soaked warm washcloth over the
eyes, soften any crust or tear residue and wipe away. This process takes only
about a minute and should feel good to the dog. Several articles on entropion ,
causes and care, have been written and are available on-line for your
review.
Clumber Spaniels are equally at home in an apartment or a residential home.
They, like most spaniels, require some daily exercise. While they might prefer
ten acres in the country and their own pond to play in, many Clumbers thrive in
city settings. As the Clumber matures, brisk walks, bicycling, or ball-chasing
can keep the Clumber in excellent shape.
Clumbers, bred originally as working dogs, may require more exercise than a normal spaniel. Failure to provide sufficient excercise will result in an
overweight condition, atrophy of the muscles and a reduced lifespan.
As in most of the medium to large breeds, Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) affects
most Clumbers. Although the percentage of affected dogs is decreasing, the Orthopedic Foundation for
Animals (OFA) statistics for Clumbers shows that of the 124 animal
X-rays submitted for examination, between January 1974 and January 1995, only
2.4% of these animals had Excellent hips, with 45.4% being rated as Good or
Fair.
Anyone who is looking for a lifelong friend. They will lie around all day and then be ready to walk for miles with their owner. People involved in outdoor activities such as hunting, tracking or obedience. Clumbers are not Goldens. They tend to do things in their own manner and on their own time frame. They are easily trainable, but there has never been a OTCH Clumber. People who want a dog that is quiet when they are in its presence and is very good with children and other animals.
People who think they don't need a fence because they have acreage in the country. People without fences. People who expect a high degree of instant obedience out of a dog. People who don't like brushing a dog or scooping up dog hair off of the floor. People who have problems dealing with the ear and eye care needs of a modertly loose skinned dog with drop ears.
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