Overview
The Mountain Feist is a small hunting dog from the Appalachian and Ozark regions of the United States, used to locate squirrels by sight and scent and hold them in a tree by barking. It is a short-coated, long-legged little dog, usually white with patches of black, tan or brindle, with upright or folded ears and a lean, athletic build. Few exist in Britain.
Feists are friendlier and less combative than most terriers, having been bred to work alongside other dogs and live close to the family. They are energetic, quick, alert to movement and inclined to bark when they find something interesting.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a quarter a day in two active walks suits most adults. Feists like to run, scan the treetops and investigate every rustle, and a route with woodland and open ground keeps them engaged.
The short coat gives little protection in cold rain. A coat on bad days and a quick dry afterwards.
On the walk
- Squirrels: The dog will spot them before you do and want to pursue to the tree and bark. Call it off early or expect a standoff at the trunk.
- Recall: Fair when trained, weaker when game is in view. Use a long line in woodland and save free running for enclosed ground.
- Other dogs: Generally sociable and used to working in company. A good candidate for group walks.
- Barking: Treeing barks are loud and persistent. Keep moving and reward quiet rather than waiting it out.
Tips for professional walkers
- Bring a ball; many feists love a chase and it gives the hunting urge a target.
- Use a harness so a sudden lunge does not hurt the neck.
- Carry a coat for the dog on cold wet days.
- Walk routes away from gardens where barking at squirrels will cause complaints.
What to ask the owner
- What does the dog chase, and does it bark at the base of trees?
- Is recall reliable, and where do you let it run?
- Does the dog wear a coat, and how does it cope with cold rain?