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Feist

NKC Breed standards for the Feist (tree dogs)

These standards were adopted through the majority interest of owners and breeders of the Feist tree dogs. It is hoped that these standards will improve the ability of this old line American hunting dog. These standards are designed to help the buyers, breeders, and show judges to develop a more versatile and pleasurable hunting companion and family pet.

General Appearance and Coat 10 Points
A well balanced, shorthaired, sturdy built small dog. This dog should be alert, attentive, and show a genuine hunting spirit, and should be a very loyal companion type dog. It should have a good coat of short hair, (no long or shaggy coat)

Head and Neck (teeth, jaws, muzzle, ears, and eyes) 15 Points
The head should be well muscled, ears short, slightly hung down (flopped ears and straight ears are acceptable). Cocked ears are very desirable, with a long keen muzzle, neck short and strong. Teeth should meet with little or no overbite or under bite. Eyes should be alert and watchful.

Front Quarters (chest, shoulders, front feet and legs) 15 Points
Good strong legs (bench legs acceptable). Chest and shoulders should be small, strong, and wiry indicating speed and endurance. Chest should be broad and deep with plenty of lung space.

Hind Quarters (hips, back, back feet, legs and tail) 15 Points
Hips and back showing strength and good muscle tone, back slightly arched. Legs need to be straight or benched. Tail either long or stub (however long tail preferred).

Special Characteristics of breed 15 Points
The Feist should appear very alert, well muscled, and eager to please the master. Primary colors should be white, tan, red, yellow to lemon, or any variations of these colors. Height standards for males are 10 to 18 inches, and females 10 to 17 inches. Weight limit for male or female dogs are up to 30 lbs. Dog should be virtually silent on trail and must tree only squirrel of coons.

Gait and Movement 15 Points
The dog should move in a free-swinging gait indicating speed, strength, and endurance. The head and tail should be carried erect. Jerky or awkward movements are a serious fault. When hunting, the dog should be very alert and watchful.

Temperament 15 Points
The Feist should appear bold, confident, trusting and loving with its master, neither too shy nor too aggressive, with a strong treeing and hunting instinct. Courageous fighters of that game work with other dogs or work alone.

Total Points 100