Have you ever heard of a Clumber Spaniel? It’s quite alright if you haven’t, because these regal dogs are a bit of a rare breed. Originally bred for hunting and game retrieval in England, Clumber Spaniels have since become favored companions among dog lovers worldwide due to their loyalty, gentle disposition, and distinctive appearance. But beyond their sturdy corpulence and sweet faces, there is one question prospective owners often ponder upon – does the Clumber Spaniel shed a lot?
Indeed, this is a key factor to consider when deciding to bring a dog into your home. After all, nobody wants to find their neatly arranged living room suddenly enrobed in a layer of dog hair in a blink of an eye. Well, brace yourself, because the truth is, yes, Clumber Spaniels do shed. Still, keep in mind that shedding is a natural process that all dogs go through, even our beautiful Clumbers.
But, let’s not stop here. Let’s dig deeper into why our beloved Clumbers shed, the amount of shedding to expect, and most importantly, how you can manage and deal with their shedding. Knowledge is power after all, and knowing exactly what to expect and how to handle it can greatly minimize the impact of this factor on your living situation.
Clumber Spaniels, like many other breeds, have a double coat. This means they have a dense undercoat beneath their visible outer coat. The purpose of the undercoat is to keep the dog warm during cold weather and cooler during hot weather. This means they will shed continually all year round and experience heavy shedding as the seasons change. Generally, expect an increased shedding during spring and autumn as the dog loses its winter coat and grow a shorter, lighter one for the summer or vice versa.
Now, shedding might seem bothersome, especially for those who love a spotless living environment. However, don’t let it deter you. There are ways you can effectively manage and even reduce your Clumber Spaniel’s shedding.
First, groom them regularly. Yes, grooming won’t stop the shedding, but it will help immensely in maintaining control over loose hair. A good brushing routine will help remove loose hairs before they end up on your furniture. Use the right grooming tools -a slicker brush or a deshedding tool is best for reaching into your Clumber’s dense undercoat. Also, avoid over-bathing your Clumber Spaniel as this can strip away the natural oils in their coat, causing them to shed even more.
Second, pay attention to your dog’s diet. A balanced diet, rich in essential fatty acids, can encourage healthier skin and fur. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are especially beneficial for dogs’ coats. Some owners may even choose to add fish oil supplements to their dogs’ meals for an added boost of these beneficial fatty acids.
Last but not least, hydration plays a crucial role in a dog’s skin and coat health. Ensure that your Clumber Spaniel has access to fresh water at all times to keep their skin hydrated and less likely to shed excessively.
While Clumber Spaniels may indeed shed a lot, don’t let it overshadow the stellar qualities that make them a truly wonderful dog breed. They are friendly, amiable and highly trainable, and in the right circumstances, these little shed-machines can make fabulous pets. Remember, keeping up with grooming, providing a balanced diet and ensuring they are well-hydrated can help manage and alleviate the shedding situation. This way, you can fully enjoy the companionship of your Clumber Spaniel without the excess hair spoiling your love affair.
