Dog – spaniel? (6)

I believe the answer is:

poodle

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This clue might be a double definition.

'dog' is the first definition.
(breed of dog)

'spaniel?' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both animals as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I don't see?

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for poodle that I've seen before include "Pet dog with clipped curly hair" , "Pet dog; obsequious chap" , "Curly-coated dog" , "Dog (seen in a parlour?)" , "5 [MANS BEST FRIEND]" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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