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Clumber Spaniel Health Issues – Dog Breed Health and Care

Clumber Spaniel Health Issues: What Owners Really Need To Know

Big, mellow, and a little bit goofy, the Clumber Spaniel is easy to love. This large sporting breed is known for its soft expression, steady nature, and love of naps as much as walks.

Because of their body shape and features, Clumber Spaniels are more prone to certain health issues than some other breeds. Their heavy build puts stress on joints, their long back can strain the spine, and those droopy eyes and ears can trap moisture and cause irritation.

That does not mean your Clumber is doomed to be unhealthy. It just means you need to know what to watch for and how to support them. In this guide, you will learn the most common Clumber Spaniel health problems, early warning signs, and simple daily habits that help your dog stay comfortable, active, and happy for as long as possible.

Common Clumber Spaniel Health Issues Owners Should Know About

Every breed has a “health profile,” and Clumber Spaniels are no different. When you understand the common trouble spots, you can spot problems early and get help before your dog is in serious pain.

Most Clumber Spaniel health issues fall into a few main categories:

Joint problems
Their wide, heavy frame on shorter legs puts extra stress on hips and elbows. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia can lead to arthritis, stiffness, and pain.
Spinal problems
The long back of a Clumber can strain the discs between the vertebrae. This can lead to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can cause back pain, weakness, or even paralysis.
Weight problems
Clumbers love food and are naturally laid back. That combination makes obesity a real concern. Extra weight makes every other issue worse, especially joint and spine problems.
Eye problems
Loose skin around the eyes can cause entropion (eyelids rolling inward) or ectropion (eyelids drooping outward). Both can irritate the surface of the eye and increase the risk of infection and corneal damage.
Ear infections
Heavy, floppy ears create a warm, moist space where yeast and bacteria can thrive. Many Clumbers have recurring ear issues unless owners stay on top of cleaning.
Skin and allergy issues
Allergies to food, fleas, or the environment can cause itchy skin, hot spots, and ear problems. Untreated itching often leads to skin infections.
Hormone problems like hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid is fairly common in the breed and can lead to weight gain, low energy, and skin or coat problems. The Clumber Spaniel Club of America’s health information notes that hypothyroidism often shows up along with skin and ear issues.

Not every Clumber will have all (or even many) of these issues. Some live long, healthy lives with only minor problems. Still, it helps to know the risks so you can ask better questions, plan regular vet checks, and build good habits that protect your dog’s long-term health.

Why Clumber Spaniels Are Prone to Certain Health Problems

Clumber Spaniels were bred as sturdy hunting dogs that move through dense cover at a slow, steady pace. That design comes with tradeoffs.

A few key traits explain many of their health risks:

Heavy body on shorter legs
Picture a low, solid athlete carrying a lot of weight across joints that are not very tall. That design puts pressure on hips and elbows and can speed up wear and tear in the joints.
Long spine
A longer back means more stress on the discs between the vertebrae. Over time those discs can bulge or rupture, which is what happens in IVDD.
Droopy eyes and loose skin
The soft, droopy Clumber expression is cute, but loose lower eyelids can roll in or out and expose the eye surface. This raises the risk of irritation, tearing, and infections.
Long, floppy ears
Heavy ears cover the ear canal like a lid, trapping heat and moisture. With less air flow, yeast and bacteria can grow more easily.
Calm nature and love of food
Clumbers often act like “couch potatoes” if allowed. Combine that with strong food motivation and you get a breed that gains weight easily.

Good care reduces the impact of many of these risks. Weight control, early checks, and timely treatment can turn a scary diagnosis into a manageable condition for many years.

Most Frequent Health Problems Seen in Clumber Spaniels

Here is a quick snapshot of the common issues you will see explained in more detail below:

Hip dysplasia
Poorly formed hip joint that leads to pain and arthritis.
Elbow dysplasia
Abnormal elbow joint that causes lameness, especially in front legs.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Discs in the spine bulge or rupture, causing back or neck pain and sometimes paralysis.
Entropion and ectropion
Eyelids that roll inward or droop outward, leading to red, irritated eyes.
Chronic ear infections
Recurring yeast or bacterial infections in the ears.
Obesity
Extra weight that stresses joints, heart, and lungs and shortens life span.
Allergies and skin problems
Itching, redness, hot spots, and hair loss from food, flea, or environmental triggers.
Hypothyroidism
Underactive thyroid gland leading to weight gain, low energy, and coat changes.

For a broader overview of breed health, you can also review Clumber Spaniel Dog Breed Health and Care on PetMD.

Joint, Spine, and Weight Issues in Clumber Spaniels

Joint and spine issues are some of the most important health concerns in Clumber Spaniels. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and watching their movement closely will help you catch problems early.

Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Problems: Signs Your Clumber Spaniel Is in Pain

Hip and elbow dysplasia are inherited joint problems. The ball and socket of the hip or the parts of the elbow do not fit together the way they should. This creates abnormal wear, pain, and early arthritis.

Common signs include:

Limping or favoring one leg
Stiffness when getting up after resting
“Bunny hopping” with back legs together when running
Reluctance to climb stairs, jump into the car, or go for walks
A swaying rear end or weak hind legs

These issues can show up in young dogs, often before two years of age, and tend to get worse over time if not managed.

Vets diagnose hip and elbow dysplasia with:

A physical exam, feeling the joints and watching your dog move
X rays under gentle sedation to see how the joints are formed

Treatment options depend on age and severity, and may include:

Weight control to reduce joint stress
Pain medicine and anti-inflammatory drugs
Joint supplements, such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids
Physical therapy, including underwater treadmill and targeted exercises
Surgery in moderate to severe cases, like joint repair or total hip replacement

Health screening for hips and elbows is a key part of responsible breeding. Before getting a puppy, ask the breeder about hip and elbow scores and any family history of joint problems.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Clumber Spaniels and Their Long Backs

Clumber Spaniels have long, low backs, which increases pressure on the discs that sit between the vertebrae. Over time, these discs can bulge or rupture and press on the spinal cord. This is called intervertebral disc disease, or IVDD.

Warning signs of IVDD can appear suddenly:

Sudden back or neck pain
Crying or yelping when picked up or when moving
Stiff, hunched posture or reluctance to turn the head
Weakness in the back legs or “wobbly” walking
Trouble jumping or using stairs
Sudden paralysis in one or more legs

If your Clumber cannot walk or is in intense pain, treat IVDD as an emergency. Seek veterinary care right away. Quick treatment gives the best chance for recovery.

Treatment choices depend on the severity:

Mild cases may improve with strict rest, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory medicine.
Moderate to severe cases often need advanced imaging, like MRI or CT scan, and back surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
Rehabilitation with controlled exercise, laser therapy, or hydrotherapy can help dogs regain strength and coordination.

To lower risk, avoid rough jumping, repeated stair climbing, and intense high-impact exercise. Simple changes, like ramps to the couch or car, can protect a Clumber’s back.

Obesity in Clumber Spaniels: How Extra Weight Hurts Joints and Heart

Many Clumber Spaniels act like they are always hungry. Combine that with a calm personality and you get a dog that can gain weight very quickly.

Extra weight does more than change how your dog looks. It can:

Increase pain from hip and elbow dysplasia
Raise risk of IVDD and slow recovery from back injuries
Strain the heart and lungs
Make heat intolerance and breathing issues worse
Shorten overall life span

Simple habits help control weight:

Measure meals instead of free-feeding. Use a measuring cup and follow your vet’s calorie recommendation.
Use low calorie treats such as small training treats or bits of carrot, and count them as part of daily calories.
Avoid table scraps and high fat snacks.
Stick to a schedule with regular meal times rather than constant snacking.

Ask your vet for a healthy target weight and how to use a body condition score chart. You should be able to feel your Clumber’s ribs with light pressure, but not see them from across the room.

Good exercise does not need to be intense. Short daily walks, gentle play in the yard, and some low-impact games are enough for many Clumbers. Soft ground and flat surfaces protect joints better than hard pavement or stairs. For ideas on routine care and healthy habits, many owners like to follow a Clumber Spaniel maintenance schedule.

Eye, Ear, Skin, and Hormone Problems in Clumber Spaniels

Soft tissue and skin problems often go hand in hand in this breed. Allergies can affect ears, skin, and sometimes eyes all at once, and hypothyroidism can make them worse.

Clumber Spaniel Eye Problems: Entropion, Ectropion, and Red, Watery Eyes

The loose skin around a Clumber Spaniel’s eyes is cute, but it can cause extra work.

Two common eyelid problems are:

Entropion
The eyelid rolls inward and the eyelashes rub on the surface of the eye.
Ectropion
The eyelid droops outward and exposes more of the inner eyelid and eye surface.

Both can cause:

Red, bloodshot eyes
Watery eyes or constant tearing
Squinting or keeping one eye partly closed
Pawing at the face
Thick or colored eye discharge

If irritation goes on for too long, it can scratch the cornea and create painful ulcers, which can threaten vision.

Vets will check the eyelids and the cornea with special stains and lights. Treatment can include:

Lubricating eye drops to protect the surface
Antibiotic drops or ointment if there is infection
Pain relief for corneal ulcers
Corrective eyelid surgery in moderate to severe cases

At home, wipe away gentle discharge with a soft, damp cloth and keep hair around the eyes trimmed. Regular eye checks during grooming help you notice changes early. For more details on eye and coat care, you can refer to this Clumber Spaniel care and health guide from Easton Vet Clinic.

Long Ears and Ear Infections: Keeping Your Clumber Spaniel’s Ears Clean

Those long, heavy ears are adorable, but they also form a warm tent over the ear canal. Heat and moisture build up inside, which creates a perfect space for yeast and bacteria to grow.

Signs of ear infection include:

Scratching or rubbing the ears
Head shaking or tilting
Foul odor from the ears
Redness and swelling inside the ear
Dark brown, black, or yellow discharge
Pulling away or crying when you touch the ears

Your vet will look inside the ear with an otoscope and may take samples of debris to check under a microscope. Treatment often includes:

Thorough ear cleaning
Prescription ear drops, sometimes with both antibiotic and antifungal medicine
Oral medicine for more serious or deep infections
Treating any underlying allergies that keep the ear canal inflamed

Prevention is key. Check ears at least once a week. Clean with a vet approved ear cleaner, not alcohol or harsh products. Dry ears well after baths or swimming. Persistent ear infections often point to allergies or hormonal issues, which your vet can help you track down. The WebMD guide to Clumber Spaniels also highlights chronic ear infections as a common problem in the breed.

Allergies and Skin Problems in Clumber Spaniels

Allergies are common in Clumber Spaniels and often show up on the skin more than anywhere else.

Common triggers include:

Environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and mold
Food ingredients, often certain proteins or grains
Flea bites, even a few bites can set off intense itching

Signs of allergy and skin trouble:

Constant itching or scratching
Licking or chewing paws
Rubbing the face on furniture or carpet
Red, inflamed skin or “hot spots”
Ear infections that keep coming back
Hair loss or thinning coat

When a dog keeps licking and scratching, bacteria and yeast on the skin can overgrow and cause infection. You may notice smell, oozing, or crusts, which usually need antibiotics or medicated treatments.

Helpful steps at home include:

Regular brushing to remove loose hair and dirt
Year-round flea control
Bathing with gentle, dog-safe shampoo, not harsh soaps
Wiping paws after walks during pollen seasons

Your vet may suggest allergy medicine, special diets, medicated shampoos, or referral to a dermatologist. For a deeper overview of common Clumber conditions and how they relate, the Clumber Spaniel Club health page is a helpful resource.

Hypothyroidism in Clumber Spaniels: Low Thyroid and Low Energy

Hypothyroidism is one of the more frequent hormonal problems seen in Clumber Spaniels. It happens when the thyroid gland in the neck does not make enough thyroid hormone.

Thyroid hormone helps control metabolism, so low levels slow many body functions. Signs can include:

Weight gain without eating more
Low energy, sleeping more, or seeming “down”
Feeling cold and seeking out warm spots
Dull, dry, or thinning coat
Repeated skin or ear infections
Behavior changes, such as irritability or sadness

Your vet will run blood tests to check thyroid levels and rule out other problems. If your dog has hypothyroidism, treatment is usually simple. Daily thyroid pills replace the missing hormone.

With the right dose, many dogs regrow hair, lose extra weight, and get their energy back. Regular blood checks keep the dose correct over time. PetMD’s Clumber Spaniel breed health guide also highlights hypothyroidism as a common concern.

Preventing and Managing Clumber Spaniel Health Issues Day by Day

You cannot change your Clumber’s genetics, but you can make daily choices that protect their health. Think of it as a partnership between you, your vet, and your dog.

Healthy Routine: Vet Visits, Screening Tests, and Vaccines

Most healthy adult Clumber Spaniels should see the vet at least once a year. Senior dogs, often over seven years old, do better with visits every six months so issues are caught earlier.

Helpful screening tools for this breed include:

Hip and elbow X rays for dogs used in breeding or those showing lameness
Eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist
Thyroid testing, especially if there are weight or skin changes
Routine blood work and urine tests to check organs and catch hidden disease

Keep vaccines up to date based on your vet’s advice and your local risks. Year-round parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms supports overall health and reduces the risk of serious infection.

A dog with good basic health tolerates joint, skin, or hormonal issues better than a dog that is already struggling with preventable disease.

Daily Care Checklist: Diet, Exercise, Grooming, and Home Safety

A simple checklist makes Clumber Spaniel health easier to manage.

Daily:

Feed measured portions of high quality dog food.
Use treats wisely and keep them small.
Offer fresh water all day.
Take at least one or two short walks on soft ground.
Spend a few minutes on gentle play or training for mental exercise.

Weekly:

Brush the coat to remove loose hair and check the skin.
Look inside the ears and clean if needed with a vet recommended cleaner.
Check eyes for redness, discharge, or squinting.
Run your hands along the back, legs, and belly to feel for pain or lumps.

Home safety tips for long-backed dogs:

Use ramps for getting into the car or onto furniture instead of jumping.
Block access to steep or slippery stairs if your dog is unsupervised.
Place rugs or mats on slick floors so your dog does not slip and strain joints.

If your dog has known joint or back problems, talk with your vet or a rehab specialist about safe exercises and helpful tools, like harnesses or orthotic supports.

Working With Breeders and Rescues to Reduce Health Risks

The health of any breed starts with smart breeding choices. Responsible Clumber Spaniel breeders:

Health test breeding dogs for hips, elbows, eyes, and thyroid disease
Share health records and test results with buyers
Avoid breeding dogs with serious known issues or those that produce unhealthy pups

When talking with breeders, ask:

What health tests have you done on the parents, and can I see the results?
Have any dogs in this line had hip dysplasia, IVDD, hypothyroidism, or serious allergies?
What support do you offer if health issues show up later?

Rescue groups may not have full health histories, but many still screen for basic issues and can share what they know from foster homes. You can see real owner experiences with common problems in discussions like this Clumber Spaniel health thread on Reddit.

Even with the best breeder or rescue, no dog is perfect. Staying informed and building a good relationship with your vet keeps you prepared to handle whatever comes up.

Conclusion: Helping Your Clumber Spaniel Live a Long, Comfortable Life

Clumber Spaniels are at higher risk for joint, spine, eye, ear, skin, and thyroid problems, but knowledge is power. When you understand their weak spots, you can act early and often keep issues small instead of overwhelming. Healthy weight, gentle exercise, and regular checkups give your dog the best chance at a long, comfortable life.

Pay attention to changes in how your Clumber walks, eats, smells, or behaves. Your instincts matter. If something feels off, reach out to your vet and ask questions. A simple exam or blood test can clear worry or catch a problem before it gets serious.

Most of all, remember that good health care is an act of love. Your Clumber does not need perfection, just a caring partner who notices the small things. If you have not done it recently, schedule a wellness visit and start a simple health plan for your dog today. Your future self, and your sleepy, happy spaniel, will thank you.

Filed Under: Clumber Spaniel, Clumber Spaniel Dog Breed, Puppies Available