“Skipper” is the dog (8)

I believe the answer is:

springer

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'is the dog' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for springer that I've seen before include "Shown [AT CRUFTS]" , "hound" , "Breed of spaniel" , "Type of spaniel" , "Large spaniel with wavy silky coat" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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