Mountain Feist
Also known as: Mountain Treeing Feist American Treeing Feist
The Mountain Feist is a distinctive breed. The Mountain Feist comes from United States, typically weighs 12–30 lb, and has a short coat. Individual Mountain Feists vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- United States
- Weight
- 12–30 lb (5.4–13.6 kg)
- Height
- 12–18 in (30–46 cm)
- Coat
- Short
- Colour
- Any color or color pattern
- Other names
- Mountain Treeing Feist American Treeing Feist
About the Mountain Feist
The Mountain Feist is a distinctive breed. Weighing 12-30 lbs, they stand 12-18 inches tall.
Overview
The Treeing Feist is a breed of feist from the Southeastern United States . Originally considered a single breed, Treeing Feist and Mountain Feist are now separately recognized by the United Kennel Club . Feist, originally bred to hunt squirrels, were separated into several breeds, often crossed with rat terriers. Several Appalachian breeders chose black Feists and bred smaller to tree, ''ring'' and retrieve squirrels.
History
In the 19th century a small type of dog developed in the mountainous regions of the Southeastern United States. Used to hunt small game, these dogs were bred from terriers and hounds . These dogs became known as the Treeing Feist; feist is a derivation of fist and is a term used in Southern America for a small fierce dog. The word treeing refers to their hunting style of running game up into trees and indicating to the hunter which tree the game has climbed. Both the Treeing and Mountain Feist breeds are used to hunt small game, particularly squirrel and rodents, as well as raccoons , opossums , rabbits and for flushing birds. In the 20th century these dogs became increasingly rare and in the early 1980s a group of devotees banded together to prevent their extinction. In 1984 the Mountain Feist Association was formed; in 1985 this was replaced by the American Treeing Feist Association, and this was joined by the Mountain Feist Breeder''s Club in 1986, the Mountain Treeing Feist Organization in 1992 and the Traditional Treeing Feist Club in 1999. In 1998 the United Kennel Club recognized the Treeing Feist as a breed, in 2015 they recognized the Mountain Feist as a separate breed.
Description
Both breeds are described as small, active, alert dogs; they have short, dense coats that can be found in any color, combination of colors or color patterns. They usually have pricked ears although semi-pricked ears are common and their tails can be docked at any length or left intact. Originally they could be found in a very broad size range, being anywhere between 10 and 22 inches (25 and 56 cm) in height and 10 to 35 pounds (4.5 to 15.9 kg) in weight. The United Kennel Club breed standards for both breeds restricts this somewhat to heights between 12 and 18 inches (30 and 46 cm) and weights between 12 and 30 pounds (5.4 and 13.6 kg) .
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Mountain Feist?
The Mountain Feist is a small to medium-sized dog breed, typically weighing between 20-40 pounds and standing 10-18 inches tall. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including black, blue, and tan. Their ears are erect, and their tail is usually docked. They are known for their energetic and agile nature, making them well-suited for hunting and outdoor activities.
Is the Mountain Feist a good family dog?
Mountain Feists can make good family dogs for active families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and attention. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require time to warm up to new people. Early socialization and training are essential to ensure they get along well with children and other pets in the household.
What health problems do Mountain Feists have?
Like many small breeds, Mountain Feists can be prone to health issues such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. They may also be susceptible to allergies and skin conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on.
How much does a Mountain Feist puppy cost?
The cost of a Mountain Feist puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 to $1,500 for a puppy from a reputable breeder. It's essential to research and find a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Where do Mountain Feists come from?
The Mountain Feist comes from United States. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Mountain Feist, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.