1. Quick learning – the most obvious attribute. The puppy walks and runs early; is rarely clumsy even as a pup, and picks up all lessons very quickly. (Read more on how to choose a gundog puppy.)
2. Problem-solving ability – easily works out how to do things such as carrying awkward objects or climbing fences; is usually a great escape artist.
3. Confidence – adapts to new situations; friendly towards strangers and other dogs; never cowers and rarely feels the need to bark.
4. Eye contact – looks directly at you and to you a lot; is quite happy to sit still watching you do things; always looks at you when hearing the whistle, being given a lesson, and so on. Does a lot of mutual adoration gazes with you (very gratifying). (Read: when is the best time to buy a gundog puppy.)
5. Scenting ability – always has nose down, wherever you are; finds and brings you stuff from miles away (apples from orchard, dead things); always turns nose into the wind when quartering and works a back wind correctly without having to be taught.
6. Concentration – is able to take direction on retrieves from a very early age; rarely forgets things and can hold a mark, sometimes for days.
7. Competitive spirit – always the natural leader of any group of dogs; doesn’t let other dogs have his retrieves; thrives on any sort of pressure.
8. Submission – the final, most elusive and most important quality of a top dog. Despite having huge natural self-possession and independent ability, it is willing to accept your leadership and to work as a team with you.

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This article was originally published in 2009 and has been updated.