Spaniels aren't hardy enough for retrieving waterfowl in cold weather, but their energy and persistence make them fun - loving, tireless hunting partners. (cuteness.com)
The dogs served two purposes: to flush game out of brush and to retrieve waterfowl from lakes and ponds. (dogcare.dailypuppy.com)
In the early 19th century, the Duke of Malmesbury developed an interest in the breed and brought them to England to serve as gun dogs in retrieving waterfowl during hunts. (thesprucepets.com)