When the dog is standing, the short, strong rear pasterns are perpendicular to the ground and, viewed from the rear, parallel to one another. FEET Good feet are essential for a working gun dog. Feet are compact, well-knit, and round to oval in shape. Toes are well arched. Pads are thick and hard.
Nails are strong.
Front dewclaws may be removed. The tail is a natural extension of the topline and is docked to about one-half its natural length or long enough to cover the dog's genital area when the tail is hanging down. The tail is thick and muscular at the base. When the dog is relaxed, the tail hangs down naturally. When the dog is moving or alert, the tail is carried level with the back or only slightly above level.