The Flat-Coated Retriever breed of dog is defined in large part by his easy going, enthusiastic and outgoing character. He is also an intelligent and elegant looking dog, although "elegant" is perhaps not the first word that comes to mind in describing his mischievous, puppy-like personality. Highly sociable and with a tail that rarely stops wagging, he loves and demands companionship. The Flat-Coated Retriever is lighter boned than other retrievers, with a moderately long coat of straight or slightly wavy and shiny hair. His legs and tail are well feathered. His noble carriage, attitude of energy and responsiveness, wagging tail, and overall appearance of graceful strength epitomize the breed. The long, clean head of the Flat-Coated Retriever breed of dog is adequate in size and strength to retrieve a large pheasant, duck or hare with ease. His skull and muzzle give the impression of being "cast in one piece," in light of the flat, clean cheeks and long deep muzzle. His brows are slightly raised and mobile, giving life to his alert, intelligent and kind expression. His almond shaped eyes are set widely apart, and are dark brown or hazel. His ears are relatively small, lying close to the side of the head, and are thickly feathered. His nose is black or brown (on liver dogs) with large open nostrils. Tight, firm and dry lips minimize feather retention when the dog is working. His jaws are long and strong, closing with a scissors bite. The neck of the Flat-Coated Retriever breed of dog is strong, slightly arched and somewhat long. His topline is strong and level, chest and rib cage are deep, with strong, muscular loins that are long enough to permit free range of motion. His tail is fairly straight, and carried gaily when the dog is in motion. His shoulders and hindquarters are muscular, but in a way that is wiry rather than bulky. Legs are straight and strong with medium bone. There are no rear dewclaws; any dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed if desired. His feet are oval or round, of medium size and tight with well arched toes and thick pads. The Flat-Coated Retriever's coat is of moderate density and length, with a high sheen. It may be straight or slightly wavy. As befits a working dog, the coat should protect against weather, water and ground cover. A mane of longer heavier fur on the neck and is typical, especially in the male dog. The Flat-Coated Retriever breed of dog may be solid black or solid liver. His gait should be efficient and strong, free and coordinated.