Feist

The Feist is known by many different names. There is Gray’s Trigger, treeing, American treeing, and American Feist. Although known by many different names, there is one breed of Feist. The name Feist is also spelled different ways, spelled ‘fice’ or ‘fyce’ depending on the region and time period of the dog. The Feist comes from the Ozark and Southern Appalachian Mountains. The dog is thought to have originated centuries ago, dating back to the time of the first President of the United States. It is not known how long the breed has been in existance, but it can trace its roots in America to the days of the early pioneers.

The Feist is a relatively small dog, standing no more than 22 inches at the withers. The heaviest accepted weight of the breed is 30 pounds. The dog has a deep, strong chest and a straight back. Its forelegs should be straight and not bowed. The hocks are bent slightly and well muscled. The head of the dog is wedge-shaped and small. Ears are set to the sides of the head, and the eyes are small. Accepted coat colors of the Feist are red and white, black and tan, black, red, blue and white, white, red brindle, and tricolor with spots.

Personality

The Feist is a strong-willed dog that does not tend to be recommended for the first time dog owner. The dog must be taught early on that the human is the leader or it will quickly develop behavioral issues. Feists are high-spirited but lovable. Because the dog is a hunting breed, it should never be left without a job to do; a bored Feist is a destructive Feist. These dogs excel in sports like obedience, agility and flyball.

Breed Characteristics

Feist Build Information

The Feist is a relatively small dog, standing no more than 22 inches at the withers. The heaviest accepted weight of the breed is 30 pounds. The dog has a deep, strong chest and a straight back. Its forelegs should be straight and not bowed. The hocks are bent slightly and well muscled. The head of the dog is wedge-shaped and small. Ears are set to the sides of the head, and the eyes are small. Accepted coat colors of the Feist are red and white, black and tan, black, red, blue and white, white, red brindle, and tricolor with spots.

Behaviour and Personality

The Feist is a strong-willed dog that does not tend to be recommended for the first time dog owner. The dog must be taught early on that the human is the leader or it will quickly develop behavioral issues. Feists are high-spirited but lovable. Because the dog is a hunting breed, it should never be left without a job to do; a bored Feist is a destructive Feist. These dogs excel in sports like obedience, agility and flyball.

Appearance

The smooth, short coat requires minimal grooming. A quick brushing is all it takes to maintain a clean coat.

Feist Common Health Conditions

The Feist is a relatively healthy breed of dog with few issues. Of the health concerns that do plague the breed, luxating patellas are the most common. This is a condition that causes the kneecaps to dislocate easily. Other health concerns are cryptorchidism, heart defects and hypothyroidism. Like most small breeds, the Feist may be prone to dental issues.

Feist Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Exercise is a must to maintain the physical and mental health of the Feist. Daily runs and mind-engaging lessons are a must for this breed, making it best suited for a family with an active lifestyle. The Feist is always up for a good chase and is surprisingly agile. The breed gets along with small children and pets when socialized from the start. Feists are effective guard dogs, readily alerting their humans to visitors and intruders. The dog is best suited for a home where there is plenty of space to run and play.