Treeing Feist

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense, smooth

A neat, close coat on a small, agile hunting dog; a long or shaggy coat is not allowed by the UKC standard.2

Personality what they are like

A bright, busy little hunter that uses both nose and eyes and moves quietly on a trail, then barks steadily once game is up a tree. At home it tends to be relaxed, loving and fun, with a terrier's watchful streak toward strangers.23

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Medium to high; around an hour a day of walks, runs and games keeps it happy.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Easy care: brush once or twice a week, bathe only when dirty, and keep nails and teeth tended. Sheds moderately.3

Company who they like around

Forms strong family bonds and does well with children when raised and trained with them.3

The story where it all began

Feists were developed in the rural American South by crossing hunting hounds with terriers to get small dogs for squirrels and vermin. The type grew scarce in the 20th century until enthusiasts began preservation efforts in the 1980s, and the UKC recognised the Treeing Feist in 1998.21

Recognised by the official bits

UKC

Terrier Group; recognised 1 Nov 19982

National Kennel Club (US)

Registers feists4