Malvern College’s Resident Good Girl: Della the Glasybont Gundog Labrador

Nestled within the historic, hallowed grounds of Malvern College in Worcestershire, a very special resident brings joy and a wagging tail to the students and staff of one of its boarding houses. Meet Della, a magnificent yellow Labrador Retriever from the renowned Glasybont Gundogs kennel in Herefordshire, who serves unofficially as the much-loved house dog.

The Perfect Boarding House Companion
Della isn’t your average family pet; she’s a working-line Labrador, known for her intelligence, gentle temperament, and boundless enthusiasm—traits that make her the perfect addition to a busy boarding house environment. She resides with the housemaster and his family, but her presence is felt by every single student.
“Della is more than just a dog; she’s part of the fabric of the house,” explains the housemaster. “She provides invaluable emotional support. On a tough academic day, a quick five-minute cuddle or a toss of a tennis ball with Della is the perfect stress reliever. Her Glasybont breeding really shines through; she’s wonderfully calm and intuitive, always knowing who needs a bit of extra attention.”
Her days are a delightful mix of chasing toys on the sprawling grounds, joining students for walks after prep, and perhaps most importantly, being a warm, furry presence in the common room. Della is a true ambassador for the Labrador breed, showcasing the loyalty and steady nature that Glasybont has championed for generations.

2026: A New Arrival from Glasybont!
The excitement at Malvern College is set to double in 2026, as the boarding house prepares to welcome a new four-legged member to the family, also hailing from the prestigious Glasybont Gundogs.
In a carefully planned succession, a new Labrador puppy is scheduled to arrive next year. This ensures that the tradition of having a loyal and well-bred canine companion at the heart of the boarding house can continue for many more years. The specific lineage from Glasybont is yet to be confirmed, but it is guaranteed to possess the same excellent working temperament and health that Della embodies.
The current students are already looking forward to the arrival of the new puppy, affectionately nicknamed ‘Little Glasybont’ for now. Not only will the new arrival provide endless amusement, but it will also offer a unique, hands-on opportunity for students to observe the care and early training of a top-tier working dog—a valuable lesson in responsibility and companionship.

The Glasybont Legacy
Glasybont Gundogs are well-respected across the UK for producing Labradors that excel both in the field and as loving family pets. Their selective breeding focuses not only on physical prowess but, crucially, on temperament and trainability. Della is a testament to this philosophy, seamlessly balancing her lively working instincts with a respectful and serene nature within the boarding house.
The anticipation is building for the arrival of Della’s new companion. Until then, students and staff will continue to cherish their time with their beloved, tail-wagging house dog, knowing that the tradition of the Glasybont Lab at Malvern College is secure for the future.