The Feist Dog Breed Might Be Small, but Don’t Take It For An Answer: They’re Not Small At All. They are beasts of prey in a little body. If you’re looking to get one, or an existing proud owner, then maybe you need all the information you can get on these sweet dogs. We’ve compiled a 10 fun facts about the Feist hunting dog for you to devour.
10 Interesting Facts About the Feist Dog Breed — (Updated)
1. Gone to Old Roots, Little Mystery Awaiting.
The Feists’ origins loom large in rural south America, though it remains unclear just where exactly they came from. Here’s what we know:
‘They were probably descendants of little terriers that English miners brought to the US in the 18th and 19th centuries. Over time, they were mixed with other small hunting dogs such as Beagles and Whippets. The “Feist” is a Norman name meaning – “little dog”.
Fact of the Day: While they have existed for centuries, it wasn’t until the end of the 20th century that dog lovers began to work to formalize the breed.
2. Hunting Is Their Superpower
And the hunting is no play when these pups do their thing. Feists are born hunters, and are expert tree cutter squirrels and small prey.
They’re known for their:
- Sensitive nose and good eyes for prey detection.
- Up the speed to speed into woods and scrub.
- High treeing instinct because they bark to signal hunters.
The squirrel hunter John Thompson says: “The Feist hunts very differently. They dig in and wait until they stump their meal, then bark for you to know they’ve discovered something. For small game it is perfect.
3. Size Doesn't Matter
The Feist, when you first look at them, is another little dog with a few muscles for the adorable face.
- Height: 10-18 inches at shoulder.
- Weight: Between 12-30 pounds.
- Coat: Medium-length, silky coat in many colours and motifs.
They are small and that gives them a head start. They’re less intimidating, and can snarl in tight areas when you’re hunting. They are also easy to care for compared to bigger dogs.
4. They’re Smarter Than You Think
Feists are brilliant and they’re big learners. They like challenges, so training is imperative.
- They like the reward – treats, praise, play.
- They pick things up really fast, be it hunting instructions or simple tricks.
- Train early to avoid them getting into a habit later.
Sarah Miller – a dog trainer by trade – ‘Train your Feist from the start. They’re very smart dogs, and so loopholes are handy for them too if you’re notr reliable. Defend yourself early, and they’ll be happi to oblige”.
5. They’re More Than Just Hunters
Feist dogs are awesome hunters, sure, but they’re also adventurous enough to experiment with a bunch of other activities:
- Agility competitions
- Barn hunt trials
- Therapy work
- Family companionship
Let’s consider Max, a 5-year-old Feist who was a hunting dog until he became a therapy dog who brings smiles.
6. Limitless Energy
Feists are high-energy dogs. That’s why they need so much exercise to be healthy and happy.
They need:
- Go for walks or runs every day (at least 30-60 minutes)
- Interactive play sessions
- Access to off-leash play in safe spaces
Mental stimulation ideas:
- Puzzle toys and food-dispensing games
- Scent work activities
- Obedience training sessions
If you do not give your dog enough blay time, he gets bored. And bored they got intoo trouble.
7. They Live Long, Happy Lives
Feists are normal healthy dogs who live on average 10-15 years. But as with all breeds, they can have some medical issues including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye disease (i.e., retinopathy)
- Allergies
“Little breeds like the Feist can be prone to dental problems so don’t overlook their teeth when it comes time to get them checked,” says Dr. Emily Chen, DVM.
8. Full of Personality
We love them for being animated, feisty, and just downright “fighty”. Not only are they assured hunters, but also affectionate lap dogs at home. They’re good with kids, when introduced well enough, but are a bit withdrawn around strangers or small animals because they’re hunters.
9. Recognized by the Right People
The Feist doesn’t yet have a membership with the American Kennel Club (AKC), but they’re already known and respected by a lot of other clubs. The United Kennel Club (UKC) for example has had them registered since 1998, and most small game hunting clubs and associations celebrate the Feist for their hunting skills.
10. Cultural Impact
Feists are no Labradors or German Shepherds, but they are a part of history and culture. Remember how President Theodore Roosevelt had a Feist named Skip? He was his old hunting partner. Also, remember Old Yeller? Most think that the dog in the story was a Feist or a Feist dog.
The dogs`s have been written about in books, magazines and television programses too.
How to Treat Your Feisty Canine
You may be thinking of purchasing a Feist dog breed, but here’s how to look after them:
1. Exercise Requirements
They need physical activity every day – be it walking, playing, intellectual exercise.
2. Grooming Needs
All they require to keep their coat clean is a quick brush once a week.
3. Training Approach
Start early and use reward. The feists are great learners, so you’re in for a good time.
4. Socialization
Bring your dog into contact with people and other pets early on so that he/she develops into a confident adult.
5. Nutrition and Health
Visit the vet on a regular basis, take care of your teeth, and feed your Feist.
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