A spaniel is a type of dog originally bred to help hunters find and retrieve birds. Spaniels have long, floppy ears, wavy coats, and eager, friendly personalities.

Different spaniel breeds were developed for different jobs. Cocker spaniels were small enough to flush out woodcocks (a type of bird) from thick bushes. Springer spaniels would “spring” forward to startle birds into flight so hunters could spot them. Water spaniels would plunge into cold lakes and rivers to retrieve ducks.

Today, most spaniels are beloved family pets rather than hunting companions. They're known for being enthusiastic, affectionate, and sometimes a bit silly. A spaniel greeting you at the door will often wiggle with so much excitement that its whole body wags, not just its tail. They love to play, swim, and be around people.

One famous fictional spaniel is Lady from Disney's Lady and the Tramp, whose proper, pampered life as a cocker spaniel gets turned upside down when she meets a scruffy street dog. The movie captures the breed's gentle, loyal nature perfectly.