Mountain Feist

The Mountain Feist's origin is attributed to the southern region of North America, specifically the Southern Appalachian and Ozark Mountains. It was commonly used to hunt small game like rabbits, birds, raccoons, and squirrels, as well as bigger animals like foxes. It is not known how long exactly the Mountain Feist has been on the continent. However, they were used by early American pioneers in their exploration of the North American continent. Also, they are referenced in literary works or documentation from U.S. presidents like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The Mountain Feist is related to the terrier, as well as the larger cur dog breed. 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 generally described as a sleek and compact canine with a visually appealing appearance. The coat of the dog is short and smooth, with a unicolor, bicolor or tricolor scheme. Common color combinations include red, black, white, red and white, black and tan, blue and white, and red brindle. The head features small and dark eyes, wedge-shaped ears, black and self-colored nose, and slightly tapering muzzle of medium length. The head is connected to a strong neck of medium length. 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 hind legs and curved nails in particular are instrumental in its ability to climb trees and chase down elusive small game. 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).

Personality

The Mountain Feist enjoys a reputation as a high-spirited, intelligent, physically active, and lovable dog. This makes it ideal for companionship, as well as for hunting. It is a very vocal dog, with the tendency to growl, bay, and bark frequently. A calm yet confident and firm owner is required for optimal breeding and behavior.

Breed Characteristics

Mountain Feist Build Information

The Mountain Feist is generally described as a sleek and compact canine with a visually appealing appearance. The coat of the dog is short and smooth, with a unicolor, bicolor or tricolor scheme. Common color combinations include red, black, white, red and white, black and tan, blue and white, and red brindle. The head features small and dark eyes, wedge-shaped ears, black and self-colored nose, and slightly tapering muzzle of medium length. The head is connected to a strong neck of medium length. 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 hind legs and curved nails in particular are instrumental in its ability to climb trees and chase down elusive small game. 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).

Behaviour and Personality

The Mountain Feist enjoys a reputation as a high-spirited, intelligent, physically active, and lovable dog. This makes it ideal for companionship, as well as for hunting. It is a very vocal dog, with the tendency to growl, bay, and bark frequently. A calm yet confident and firm owner is required for optimal breeding and behavior.

Appearance

Since Mountain Feist dogs are short-haired, they don't require a lot of grooming. However, if they get messy, usually as a result of going into the bushes or splashing into a mud puddle, they would require a good washing. Otherwise, all this dog needs is an occasional brushing to get rid of shed hairs.

Mountain Feist Common Health Conditions

There are no common or major health issues associated with the Mountain Feist. However, regular exercise or activity should be encouraged to ward off possible obesity.

Mountain 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

The Mountain Feist is a dog of North American origin. It is also known as the Treeing Feist, American Treeing Feist, and American Feist. The dog is not known as a specific breed; in fact, it can be considered as a mixed breed, partly due to occasional mix-ups with the rat terrier or Jack Russell Terrier.