
The coat of the dog is short and smooth, with a unicolor, bicolor or tricolor scheme.


The Mountain Feist is generally described as a sleek and compact canine with a visually appealing appearance. Treeing Feist, American Treeing Feist, American Feist A calm yet confident and firm owner is required for optimal breeding and behavior. It is a very vocal dog, with the tendency to growl, bay, and bark frequently. This makes it ideal for companionship, as well as for hunting. The Mountain Feist enjoys a reputation as a high-spirited, intelligent, physically active, and lovable dog. Mountain Feists usually stand at 10 to 22 inches tall (26 to 56 centimeters) and weigh around 10 to 30 pounds (4.5 to 13.5 kilograms). The hind legs and curved nails in particular are instrumental in its ability to climb trees and chase down elusive small game. A fairly deep and well-ribbed check, straight and strong back and forelegs, muscular hind legs, small and compact feet with sharp curved nails, and a stubby tail complete the dog's profile. The head is connected to a strong neck of medium length. The head features small and dark eyes, wedge-shaped ears, black and self-colored nose, and slightly tapering muzzle of medium length. Common color combinations include red, black, white, red and white, black and tan, blue and white, and red brindle. In 1985, the American Treeing Feist Association (ATFA) was founded to promote the Feist as a dog that can climb trees to hunt fleeing game. The Mountain Feist is related to the terrier, as well as the larger cur dog breed. presidents like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Also, they are referenced in literary works or documentation from U.S. However, they were used by early American pioneers in their exploration of the North American continent. It is not known how long exactly the Mountain Feist has been on the continent. It was commonly used to hunt small game like rabbits, birds, raccoons, and squirrels, as well as bigger animals like foxes. Today, Feists are still valued by hunters, farmers and families for their great tracking and pest-control abilities, not to mention their steady temperaments.The Mountain Feist's origin is attributed to the southern region of North America, specifically the Southern Appalachian and Ozark Mountains. Feist Historyįeists (also called Mountain Fesists) originated in North America several hundred years ago, probably from crosses between English terriers and American Indian dogs. These are solid, healthy little dogs for the most part, but some can develop hip dysplasia and allergy problems. They will be happy living in an apartment as long as their daily exercise requirements are met.Ī healthy Feist can live as long as 18 years. Being an intelligent working breed, they also like constructive games and tasks to keep their minds sharp. Things You Should Knowįeists need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, whether through walks, jogs through the neighborhood or hikes in the park. However, they do have nose when it comes to intruders-they will bark and alert the family if they sense a threat. Their solid terrier genes can make them slightly territorial, but they are generally good with new people. They have gentle, adaptable personalities, and they know when to adjust the energy level.

They also love to play in the park and jog through the neighborhood.įeists get along great with children. And if you have a rat problem, they will soon make it go away. Easy to train and eager to please, Feists can help on the farm, in the field or in the yard. Traitsįeists have lots of energy, but around the home they aren’t likely to bounce off the walls-in fact, they are more than happy to cuddle on the couch. Overall, Feists have an alert and outgoing look. Feists have short, smooth coats that come in red brindle, red & white, black, black & tan, tricolor (black, tan & white) and blue & white. They have strong necks and shoulders, deep chests, sturdy legs and tails that are set high. They have slightly rounded heads, tapered muzzles, black noses and ears that stick up. Feists are small, compact and muscular dogs.
