Treeing Feist
Also known as Mountain Treeing Feist · American Treeing Feist · Feist
United States, Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 30–46 cm
- Weight
- 5–14 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- Energetic
- Alert
- Bold
- Driven
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Treeing Feist is a small, quick hunting dog from the hills of the south-eastern United States. 'Feist' is an old Southern word for a small, plucky dog, and 'treeing' describes how it chases squirrels and other game up a tree and then barks to show the hunter where it is. It has a short, dense coat in any colour and usually upright ears.
Size
- Size
- Small
- Height at shoulder
- 30–46 cm
- Adult weight
- 5–14 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
12–16 years
Most Treeing Feists live 12–16 years. Like other small dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 9, 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
Feists are alert, energetic and keen, with plenty of hunting drive. They tend to be bold for their size and very focused on game, which can make them noisy and quick to chase.
- Energetic
- Alert
- Bold
- Driven
Food
For a typical 9.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 610 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 380 ml–570 ml
- a day, from all sources
- Small dogs burn energy quickly — two or three measured meals a day suit most adults, and toy breeds shouldn't go long without food.
- 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 dayThis is a busy little dog that needs a lot of activity: long walks, scent games and, ideally, chances to hunt or track. A bored feist will find its own entertainment.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat needs only an occasional brush.
Health
A secure garden and good recall training are essential, as a feist that spots a squirrel may not listen. Small pets such as rodents are not a good mix. Feists are rare outside the American South. See a vet for injuries picked up in the woods.
The breed can be prone to
- Very little breed-specific health information has been published
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella examination
Not every Treeing Feist is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Small dogs bred from terriers and hounds were used to hunt squirrels and other small game in the Southern mountains from the 1800s. By the 20th century they had become rare, and several feist clubs were founded from 1984 onwards to save them. The UKC recognised the Treeing Feist in 1998 and the Mountain Feist as a separate breed in 2015.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC (with the Mountain Feist recognised separately); not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Treeing Feist right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–16 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.
Treeing Feist FAQ
How big does a Treeing Feist get?
Adult Treeing Feists typically stand about 30–46 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–14 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Treeing Feists live?
Typically 12–16 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 Treeing 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 Treeing Feist need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Treeing Feists easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Treeing Feists shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Treeing 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 Treeing 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 Treeing Feists have?
The breed can be prone to very little breed-specific health information has been published. Not every Treeing 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.