Overview
The Treeing Feist is a compact hunting dog from the American South, developed from terriers and hounds to pursue squirrels and other small game. It is quick, alert and driven, with a voice used to tell the hunter where the quarry has climbed.
Today it is still mostly a working companion for hunters, though its cheerful nature also suits an active family that understands a small dog with a big hunting drive.
History
In the 19th century, settlers in the mountainous Southeast developed small, tough dogs from terrier and hound stock to hunt squirrels, raccoons, opossums and rabbits. The word feist comes from an old term for a small, spirited dog.
By the 20th century these dogs had become uncommon, and in the early 1980s enthusiasts formed clubs to keep them going. The United Kennel Club recognised the Treeing Feist in 1998 and later listed the Mountain Feist as a separate breed.
Appearance
A small, athletic dog with a short, dense coat and usually pricked or semi-pricked ears. The tail may be left natural or docked in some places. Size varies, with the UKC standard allowing roughly 30 to 46 cm at the shoulder and a light, wiry build.
Temperament
Bright, energetic and keen, the Treeing Feist loves to work and to be with its people. It is typically affectionate at home but intense outdoors, with strong prey drive and a tendency to follow its nose and voice.
Care and exercise
Needs daily vigorous exercise and a securely fenced yard, since it will chase squirrels and other small animals. Mental work such as scent games suits it well. Grooming is minimal: a weekly brush and occasional bath.
Health
Generally robust and long-lived, with no widely documented breed-specific disorders. Routine care, dental checks and watching for injuries from hunting are the main concerns.
