Clumber Pei Dog Guide (Clumber Spaniel x Shar-Pei Mix)
If you have ever seen a wrinkly, low-slung dog with sleepy eyes and a big heart, you might have met a Clumber Pei without knowing it.
This rare mixed breed combines the calm Clumber Spaniel with the loyal Chinese Shar-Pei. It is not an official breed, so you will not find it in major kennel club lists. That also means good, clear information can be hard to track down. Many owners only discover the mix after a DNA test or a careful look at both parent breeds.
This guide pulls together what is known about the Clumber Pei, how it tends to look and act, and what kind of home it fits best. You will learn about its size, coat, temperament, daily care, common health issues, and training needs, all in simple, practical language.
If you are thinking about bringing home a Clumber Pei, or you suspect your “mystery mix” might be one, this is for you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvveo56g7dA
What Is a Clumber Pei Dog?
A Clumber Pei is a designer hybrid that comes from crossing a purebred Clumber Spaniel with a purebred Chinese Shar-Pei. Since it is a mix, not a standardized breed, there is no fixed look or personality that every Clumber Pei will have.
Some pups lean more toward the Clumber Spaniel side. Others look and act closer to a Shar-Pei. Many fall somewhere in between, with a sturdy body, soft or dense coat, and a loyal, slightly reserved nature.
Because there is little official data on this mix, most of what we know comes from owners and a few breed info sites. For example, Dog Breed Info’s Clumber Pei page describes it as a cross with a wide range of looks and temperaments, shaped heavily by the parents.
To understand this mix, you first need to understand the two breeds that created it.
Clumber Spaniel parent: calm hunting dog from England
The Clumber Spaniel comes from England and was developed as a bird hunting dog. It is one of the heavier spaniel breeds, built low to the ground with a long, strong body and a big, blocky head.
Adult Clumber Spaniels usually weigh between 55 and 85 pounds. Their coats are medium length, dense, and mostly white, often with lemon or orange markings on the ears and face. They were bred to work slowly and steadily through thick cover, which is why they are powerful but not very fast.
Clumbers are known as calm, gentle, and steady. Many are happy to nap near their people for hours, then get up for a slow, thoughtful walk. They are often friendly, polite, and a bit goofy once they relax.
In a Clumber Pei, this side of the family can contribute:
- A sturdy, low or medium-height body
- A relaxed indoor personality
- A soft, shedding coat
- A gentle, sometimes sensitive, nature
Some Clumber Pei dogs behave almost like slightly more watchful Clumber Spaniels.
Shar Pei parent: loyal guardian from China
The Chinese Shar-Pei has a very different background. This breed comes from China, where it worked as a farm dog, guardian, and all-purpose helper. Shar-Pei are best known for their loose, wrinkled skin and short, bristly coat.
Adult Shar-Pei usually weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. They are compact, muscular, and solid. They bond closely with their families, and many are naturally suspicious of strangers. They are smart and independent, which can sometimes feel like stubbornness to new dog owners.
Key traits from the Shar-Pei that might show up in a Clumber Pei include:
- A protective or watchful nature
- A more reserved attitude toward strangers
- Wrinkles or loose skin around the head and neck
- A shorter, thicker coat
- Strong-willed or independent behavior
This side of the mix can make the Clumber Pei more alert and more likely to guard the home.
Why some breeders create the Clumber Pei mix
People who intentionally breed Clumber Pei dogs often have a few goals in mind. They may want:
- A unique look that blends wrinkles with a heavier spaniel frame
- A calm but watchful family companion
- A dog that is not extremely high energy, but still pays attention to what is happening
Some breeders also hope that mixing two breeds may reduce certain health problems. That is not guaranteed. Mixed dogs can still inherit serious issues from both parents. Sites like Furry Critter’s Clumber Pei description stress that the best way to guess temperament and health is to study both breeds.
Ethical breeding should always include health testing, clean living conditions, and careful screening of homes. A responsible breeder will be honest about the risks, not just the cute parts.
Clumber Pei appearance: size, coat, and unique looks
Because this is a mixed breed, every Clumber Pei is a bit of a surprise. Even puppies from the same litter can look very different from each other.
Still, many owners report some common traits. Most Clumber Pei dogs are medium to large, with a solid body, broad chest, and a thoughtful, slightly serious expression. Their coats can range from soft and feathery to short and dense. Some have mild wrinkles, especially around the face and neck, while others have smoother skin.
Color also varies a lot. You might see white, cream, tan, fawn, brown, or patterns that mix these shades. Some dogs keep the classic white-and-lemon look of the Clumber, just with a thicker Shar-Pei style coat.
Overall, picture a dog around the size of a Lab or a large spaniel, but with a bit more squish to the face and a deeper, more watchful stare.
Typical Clumber Pei size and body shape
Most Clumber Pei dogs fall in the 40 to 70 pound range, sometimes a bit more if they take strongly after bigger Clumber Spaniel lines. They tend to be compact but heavy, with a broad chest and thick bones.
The body is often slightly rectangular, meaning longer than tall. Many have strong shoulders and hips, which is great for steady walking but can put stress on the joints if they gain too much weight.
If you know what a Labrador Retriever or a standard-size spaniel looks like, you can picture the Clumber Pei as similar in size, but often a bit shorter in leg and heavier in build.
Face, ears, and wrinkles you might see
The head of a Clumber Pei is usually broad, which comes from both parents. The muzzle can be:
- Longer and softer, like a Clumber Spaniel
- Shorter and more square, like a Shar-Pei
- Somewhere in between
Many Clumber Pei dogs have some loose skin on the face. This can create mild wrinkles on the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes. Most will not have the extreme folds of a show-style Shar-Pei, but you may still see a clearly “scrunched” look.
Eyes are often slightly droopy or heavy-lidded, giving a sleepy or thoughtful expression. Ears tend to be medium length, soft, and hang close to the head.
Extra wrinkles and loose skin can look adorable, but they need care. Moisture and dirt can collect in folds, which can lead to infections or eye issues. Owners should check the face and eyes often and clean as needed.
Clumber Pei coat type, shedding, and colors
Coat type in a Clumber Pei can fall along a spectrum.
More Clumber-like coats are:
- Medium length
- Soft and dense
- Clearly shedding
- Feathery on legs and chest
More Shar-Pei-like coats are:
- Short and thick
- Slightly rough or bristly
- Less feathery
- Sometimes low to moderate shedding
Colors can include:
- White or cream
- Fawn, tan, or brown
- Mixed markings, such as white with tan patches
A fluffy, Clumber-style coat will shed more and need more brushing, usually several times a week. A shorter coat will still shed, just in shorter hairs, and often needs weekly brushing plus more attention to the skin underneath.
Clumber Pei personality: is this the right dog for your family?
The Clumber Pei personality is one of the most interesting parts of this mix. You often get a blend of calm Clumber Spaniel charm and Shar-Pei loyalty and protectiveness.
In many homes, this dog is:
- Relaxed and quiet indoors
- Devoted to family, often choosing a favorite person
- Polite but reserved with strangers
- Smart, with a hint of stubbornness
A well-bred, well-socialized Clumber Pei can be a wonderful family companion. Still, it is not the best choice for people who want a very outgoing, always-friendly dog that loves every stranger at the park.
Energy level, play style, and daily behavior
Most Clumber Pei dogs are moderate energy. They enjoy walks, playtime, and short training sessions, but they usually do not want to jog for miles every day.
A typical day might look like this:
- Morning walk of 20 to 30 minutes
- Some sniffing, light fetch, or training games
- Long nap while you work or run errands
- Another walk or yard play in the late afternoon
- Quiet time in the evening near the family
Mental exercise is important. These dogs are thinkers. Puzzle toys, sniff walks, and short problem-solving games help prevent boredom. Without mental work, a Clumber Pei can get pushy, barky, or destructive.
Affection, loyalty, and guarding instincts
This mix tends to be very loyal. Many Clumber Pei dogs like to stay near their people, watching the room and quietly following from place to place.
From the Shar-Pei side, you may see:
- Natural guarding instincts
- Barking to alert when someone is at the door
- A reserved or cautious reaction to new people
This does not mean they are aggressive. With good breeding and socialization, they can learn that visitors are safe. Early socialization is key so the dog grows into a confident guardian, not a nervous one.
Most Clumber Pei dogs enjoy affection but may not be as clingy as a Golden Retriever. Some are more “serious” and prefer calm petting and quiet company instead of constant cuddling.
Living with kids and other pets
A well-socialized Clumber Pei can be a gentle, tolerant dog with respectful children. The Clumber side brings patience, and the Shar-Pei side brings loyalty and protectiveness toward the family.
A few important safety tips:
- Teach kids to pet gently, not to pull ears or climb on the dog
- Supervise all interactions, especially with young children
- Give the dog a quiet place to retreat when it needs space
Many Clumber Pei dogs can live with other dogs and even cats if introduced slowly. Some Shar-Pei mixes prefer a calmer home and do not enjoy rough, chaotic play. This mix often fits best with families who respect a dog’s boundaries and like a peaceful home.
Clumber Pei care guide: exercise, grooming, and health
Caring for a Clumber Pei is not extremely hard, but it does require steady effort. Think of it as caring for a sturdy, medium-large dog with extra focus on skin, eyes, and weight.
Daily exercise and mental enrichment needs
Most adult Clumber Pei dogs do well with 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, split into two or more sessions. Good activities include:
- Easy to moderate walks
- Sniff walks where they can explore smells
- Short games of fetch or tug
- Light hiking on cooler days
- Structured yard play
Young dogs should not be pushed into hard running or jumping, especially while their joints are still developing. Too much impact too early can raise the risk of hip and elbow problems later.
On top of physical exercise, plan some brain work each day. A few ideas:
- 5 to 10 minutes of basic training
- Food puzzle toys
- Hide-and-seek with treats in the house
Grooming routine: coat, wrinkles, ears, and nails
Your grooming routine will depend on the coat type your Clumber Pei has.
If the coat is longer and more like a Clumber Spaniel:
- Brush several times a week to remove loose hair
- Expect regular shedding on floors and furniture
- Check behind ears, on the chest, and on the tail for tangles
If the coat is shorter and more like a Shar-Pei:
- Brush once a week to remove dead hairs and check skin
- Pay close attention to any folds on the neck, face, or body
For any Clumber Pei, make a basic care checklist:
- Wrinkles and skin folds: If present, gently wipe them with a soft cloth and dry them well. Watch for redness or odor.
- Ears: Check weekly for wax build-up, redness, or smell. Clean with a vet-approved ear cleaner if needed.
- Nails: Trim every 3 to 4 weeks, or as often as needed to keep them from clicking loudly on the floor.
- Teeth: Brush several times per week with dog-safe toothpaste.
Some dogs benefit from regular visits to a professional groomer, especially if the coat is thicker or the owner has trouble keeping up with shedding and nail trims.
Common Clumber Pei health issues to watch for
Because the Clumber Pei comes from two breeds with known health concerns, owners should stay alert and work closely with a veterinarian. Resources on parent breeds, like the Clumber Pei overview at Potty Registered Puppies, can help you understand possible risks.
Common issues to watch for:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: Look for limping, stiffness, trouble getting up, or reluctance to climb stairs.
- Eye problems such as entropion (inward rolling eyelids) or cherry eye: Signs include squinting, redness, or discharge.
- Skin infections in folds: Redness, odor, or brown discharge in wrinkles or between toes.
- Allergies: Itching, ear infections, licking paws, or rashes.
- Weight gain: Easy weight gain is common in Clumber-type mixes, which can stress joints.
Regular vet checkups, a healthy diet, measured meals, and sensible exercise go a long way. Many owners also choose pet insurance to help with surprise vet bills.
Training and socialization tips for a well-mannered Clumber Pei
Training a Clumber Pei is both rewarding and sometimes challenging. The Clumber side often wants to please, while the Shar-Pei side may ask, “Why should I?” before following a command.
With patience, kindness, and clear rules, this mix can become a polite, steady companion.
House training, basic commands, and manners
Start house training as soon as your dog comes home. Good habits to build:
- Use a crate as a safe, cozy spot, not a punishment
- Take your puppy outside often, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking
- Praise and treat when they potty in the right place
Teach basic commands like:
- Sit
- Down
- Stay
- Come
- Leave it
- Walk nicely on leash
Use positive reinforcement. That means rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, toys, or play. Avoid harsh corrections or yelling. These can damage trust, especially with a sensitive or independent dog.
Short, fun training sessions work better than long, boring ones. Aim for 5 to 10 minutes at a time.
Early socialization and handling for a confident dog
Shar-Pei mixes can become suspicious or shy if they do not meet enough people and dogs in a safe way. Socialization is your chance to teach your Clumber Pei that the world is mostly safe and friendly.
For puppies and new adults:
- Introduce them to people of different ages, sizes, and styles of clothing
- Visit quiet parks, pet-friendly stores, and safe neighborhoods
- Pair new experiences with treats and praise
Practice gentle handling so vet visits and grooming are easier later. Treat and praise while you:
- Touch paws and nails
- Look in ears and mouth
- Lift lips to check teeth
- Gently feel along legs and body
Keep sessions short and relaxed. The goal is calm acceptance, not forcing them to tolerate rough handling.
Solving common behavior challenges in Clumber Pei dogs
Some common behavior challenges in this mix include:
- Stubbornness: Break tasks into small steps, reward often, and keep sessions short.
- Pulling on leash: Use a front-clip harness, stop walking when they pull, and reward when the leash is loose.
- Barking at strangers: Teach a “quiet” cue and reward calm behavior when people pass by. Use distance to keep your dog under threshold.
- Guarding toys or food: Trade up with high-value treats, do not grab items by force, and work with a trainer if guarding is intense.
If you feel stuck, a positive reinforcement trainer can make a big difference. Consistency and patience really are the keys with this mix.
Is a Clumber Pei the right dog for you?
The Clumber Pei can be a great fit for some homes and a poor fit for others. Before you fall for a cute face online, take an honest look at your lifestyle, budget, and experience.
This mix often works best for people who like a calm, loyal dog that is not overly social with strangers, and who are willing to put in steady effort on training, grooming, and health care.
It may not be ideal for first-time owners who want an “easy” dog that loves everyone, or for very busy families with no time for socialization and regular vet care.
Pros and cons of owning a Clumber Pei
On the plus side, many owners enjoy the Clumber Pei’s unique look, gentle indoor energy, and strong bond with family. The dog can be a quiet presence at home, happy to nap nearby and follow simple routines. Moderate exercise needs make it easier to fit into many daily schedules than very high-energy breeds.
On the other hand, possible joint issues, eye problems, and skin care can lead to frequent vet visits and higher costs. Grooming, wrinkle care, and weight control take ongoing effort. The Shar-Pei influence also means you need to commit to early socialization and kind, consistent training so guarding instincts do not turn into fear or reactivity. This mix is best for owners who are ready to invest time, attention, and money into long-term care, not just the puppy stage.
Finding a Clumber Pei: breeders, rescues, and mixed-breed options
The Clumber Pei is rare, so finding one might take patience. Some specialty breeders focus on this mix, and a few websites, such as Clumber Pei: Breed Facts and Information at Potty Registered Puppies, share details about parents and traits.
If you go through a breeder, look for:
- Health testing on both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, skin where possible)
- Clean, home-style living conditions
- Honest talk about pros and cons of the mix
You can also look into rescues and shelters. Many “spaniel mixes” or “Shar-Pei mixes” in shelters may actually be similar to a Clumber Pei. Posts on sites like this Reddit discussion about a possible Clumber Pei show how often these dogs appear as “mystery mixes.”
Ask about:
- The dog’s temperament
- Any health history
- How it behaves with kids, dogs, and strangers
Being open to a similar mix, not just a perfect 50/50 Clumber Pei, can help you find a great match sooner.
Most Recommended Google Searches for Clumber Pei by Buyers
Buyers who are curious about this mix often search for:
- “Clumber Pei dog breed information”
- “Clumber Spaniel Shar-Pei mix temperament”
- “Clumber Pei size and shedding”
- “Clumber Pei health problems”
- “Clumber Pei vs Shar Pei”
- “Best food for Clumber Pei dogs”
- “Clumber Pei training tips”
- “Is Clumber Pei good with kids”
- “Clumber Pei lifespan and care”
- “Clumber Pei rescue near me”
These searches usually lead to a mix of owner stories, hybrid dog databases, and small breeder sites.
https://www.pottyregisteredpuppies.com/ offers Clumber Pei puppies and prices
Some buyers find Clumber Pei puppies through niche breeder sites such as pottyregisteredpuppies.com, which lists Clumber Pei puppies, prices, and basic breed facts. While this can be a starting point to learn about availability and cost, always look beyond price and cute photos.
Before you commit, ask the seller:
- Which health tests were done on the parents
- How the puppies are raised and socialized
- If you can see vet records and a contract
Use any breeder website as one part of your research, not the only source.
Conclusion
The Clumber Pei is a rare, eye-catching mix that blends the calm strength of the Clumber Spaniel with the steady loyalty of the Chinese Shar-Pei. Most of these dogs are medium to large, sturdy, and somewhat wrinkled, with moderate energy and a close bond with their families.
Caring for a Clumber Pei means steady exercise, regular grooming, attention to skin and eyes, and thoughtful training and socialization. It is a rewarding mix for owners who like a quiet, loyal dog and who are willing to manage possible health and behavior challenges with patience.
If you think this mix might be right for you, keep learning about both Clumber Spaniels and Shar-Pei, talk to vets and trainers, and meet individual dogs whenever you can. Every mixed breed dog is an individual, so the best match comes from seeing the actual dog, listening to your gut, and committing to kind, lifelong care.
