General Appearance:

Should be of a symmetrical, active, powerful dog, a good level mover, sound and well put together, with a kindly expression, neither clumsy nor long in the leg.

Characteristics:

Biddable, intelligent and possessing natural working ability.

Temperament:

Kindly, friendly and confident.

Gait/Movement:

Powerful with good drive. Straight and true in front and rear. Stride long and free with no sign of hackney action in front.

Head and Skull:

Broad skull, well set on a clean and muscular neck, muzzle powerful and wide, not weak-jawed, good stop.

Eyes:

Dark and well set apart, very kindly in expression with dark rims.

Ears:

Well proportioned, of moderate size and well set on.

Mouth:

Teeth should be sound and strong, neither overshot nor undershot, the lower teeth just behind but touching the upper.

Neck:

The neck should be clean and muscular.

Forequarters:

The forelegs should be straight with good bone. Shoulders should be well-laid back and long in the blade.

Body:

Well balanced, short coupled and deep through the heart. Ribs deep and well sprung.

Hindquarters:

The loins and legs should be strong and muscular, with good second thighs and well bent stifles, hocks well let down, not cow-hocked.

Feet

Round and cat-like, not open or splayed

Tail:

Should not be carried too gay or curled at the tip.

Coat:

Should be flat or wavy with good feathering, a dense water resisting undercoat.

Colour:

Any shade of gold or cream, but neither red nor mahogany. The presence of a few white hairs on the chest is permissible. White collar, feet, toes or blaze should be penalised. Nose should be black.

Weight and Size:

The average weight in good hard condition should be:

Dogs:        Weight: 70-80 lbs (32-37 kilos)
                  Height at shoulder: 22-24 ins (55.88-60.96 cms)

Bitches:   Weight: 60-70 lbs (27-32 kilos)
                  Height at shoulder: 20-22 ins (50.80-55.88 cms)