A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics, temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function. Absolute soundness is essential. Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health, welfare or soundness of this breed. From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adversely, and judges and breeders are requested to refer to the Kennel Club website for details of any such current issues. If a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure. However if a dog possesses a feature, characteristic or colour described as undesirable or highly undesirable it is strongly recommended that it should not be rewarded in the ring. General Appearance: Active, graceful and well balanced, with gentle expression. Characteristics: Sporting, affectionate, absolutely fearless. Temperament: Gay, friendly, non-aggressive; no tendency to nervousness. Head and Skull: Skull almost flat between ears. Stop shallow. Length from base of stop to tip of nose about 3.8 cms (1½ ins). Nostrils black and well developed without flesh marks, muzzle well tapered. Lips well developed but not pendulous. Face well filled below eyes. Any tendency to snipiness undesirable. Eyes: Large, dark, round but not prominent; spaced well apart. Ears: Long, set high, with plenty of feather. Mouth: Jaws strong, with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws. Neck: Moderate length, slightly arched. Forequarters: Chest moderate, shoulders well laid back; straight legs moderately boned. Body: Short-coupled with good spring of rib. Level back. Hindquarters: Legs with moderate bone; well turned stifle – no tendency to cow-hocks or sickle-hocks. Feet: Compact, cushioned and well feathered. Tail: Length of tail in balance with body, well set on, carried happily but never much above the level...