Treeing Feist facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Treeing Feist

Other names	Mountain Treeing Feist American Treeing Feist
Origin	United States
Traits Weight 12–30 lb (5.4–13.6 kg) Height 12–18 in (30–46 cm) Coat Short Color Any color or color pattern
Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

Mountain Feist

Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

Have you ever heard of a dog that helps hunters find animals in trees? Meet the Treeing Feist and the Mountain Feist! These amazing dog breeds come from the southeastern United States. For a long time, people thought they were the same breed. But now, the United Kennel Club recognizes them as two separate and special breeds.

Discover the History of Feist Dogs

These small, brave dogs first appeared in the 1800s. They were developed in the mountains of the southeastern United States. People bred them from terriers and hounds. This mix gave them the best traits for hunting small animals.

Why Are They Called "Feist" and "Treeing"?

The word "feist" comes from an old term meaning a small, fierce dog. It was often used in the Southern United States. The "treeing" part of their name describes how they hunt. These dogs chase animals like squirrels or raccoons up into trees. Then, they bark loudly at the base of the tree to show the hunter where the animal is hiding.

What Do Feist Dogs Hunt?

Both Treeing Feist and Mountain Feist dogs are excellent hunters. They are known for finding small game. This includes animals like squirrels, raccoons, opossums, and rabbits. They can also help flush out birds, meaning they make the birds fly out of hiding.

Saving the Feist Breeds

By the 1900s, these unique dogs became quite rare. People who loved them worried they might disappear forever. So, in the early 1980s, a group of dedicated people came together to save them.

Several clubs were formed to protect and promote these breeds:

• The Mountain Feist Association started in 1984.
• The American Treeing Feist Association took its place in 1985.
• The Mountain Feist Breeder's Club joined in 1986.
• The Mountain Treeing Feist Organization began in 1992.
• The Traditional Treeing Feist Club was formed in 1999.

Thanks to these efforts, the United Kennel Club officially recognized the Treeing Feist as a breed in 1998. Later, in 2015, they also recognized the Mountain Feist as its own separate breed.

What Do Feist Dogs Look Like?

Both the Treeing Feist and Mountain Feist are small, active, and very alert dogs. They have short, thick coats that can come in almost any color or pattern. Their ears usually stand up straight, but sometimes they can be semi-pricked (meaning they fold slightly). Their tails can be left natural or shortened.

How Big Do Feist Dogs Get?

Originally, these dogs came in many different sizes. They could be anywhere from 10 to 22 inches (25 to 56 cm) tall. Their weight could range from 10 to 35 pounds (4.5 to 16 kg).

However, the United Kennel Club has set specific size guidelines for the breeds. Now, Treeing Feist and Mountain Feist dogs are typically between 12 and 18 inches (30 and 46 cm) tall. They usually weigh between 12 and 30 pounds (5.4 and 14 kg).