Appearance: Gundog with flat-lying coat (lustrous black or liver), feathering on legs/tail. Distinctive long head (unique among retrievers) projects smart, kindly expression. Leaner, more elegant silhouette than Labs (though similar height).

Traits & Characteristics: 'Peter Pan' of Sporting Group, forever young. Happy, self-assured, willing to please; retrieves ducks or show ribbons equally well. Dogdom's champion tail-waggers, among happiest breeds. Mature slowly, retain puppyish mischief. Highly energetic, need lots of outdoorsy exercise.

Origins: England (relatively recent origin).