Denmark Feist
Also known as Denmark Treeing Feist
United States, Terriers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 38–46 cm
- Weight
- 11–16 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Muscular
- Driven
- Quiet hunter
- Tough
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Denmark Feist is a muscular, short-coated feist from Virginia, usually red or yellow and sometimes red and white. It has a broad muzzle, semi-erect ears and a short tail, which is natural in some dogs. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with Denmark; the name combines the first names of the two men who promoted it.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 38–46 cm
- Adult weight
- 11–16 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Denmark Feists live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is a determined hunting dog, said to work quietly on the trail and to tree game or hold it on the ground. Little has been written about it as a pet, so expect a typical feist: alert, keen and full of drive.
- Muscular
- Driven
- Quiet hunter
- Tough
Food
For a typical 13.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 790 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 540 ml–810 ml
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayA hunting feist needs plenty of daily exercise and ideally regular chances to hunt or track.
Grooming & shedding
The short, rough coat needs only an occasional brush.
Health
This is a rare breed, mostly kept by hunters in the south-eastern United States. Good recall and a secure garden are important given its prey drive. Very little is known about its health, so regular vet checks are sensible, especially after time in rough country.
The breed can be prone to
- Very little breed-specific health information is available
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary health check
Not every Denmark Feist is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
According to the breed's own story, the Slade family of Chatham, Virginia acquired a dog from a travelling salesman in 1917 by trading animal hides and a wagon wheel. Impressed by its hunting, they bred from it for decades. Mark Slade and Dennis Willis presented the line as a breed in 1984, and a breed association followed in 1986. The dogs are used on squirrel, bobcat and feral pig.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Promoted by the DenMark Treeing Feist Association; not recognised by the FCI, AKC, UKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Denmark Feist right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Denmark Feist FAQ
How big does a Denmark Feist get?
Adult Denmark Feists typically stand about 38–46 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–16 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Denmark Feists live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Denmark Feist need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Denmark Feist need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Denmark Feists easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Denmark Feists shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Denmark Feists good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Denmark Feist live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Denmark Feists have?
The breed can be prone to very little breed-specific health information is available. Not every Denmark Feist is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.