The Mountain Cur Feist is a unique and fascinating breed. They originated in the southern United States and are known for their small size and big personality.
These dogs were bred to hunt small game like rabbits and opossums, and as a result, they have a strong prey drive and are naturally skilled at tracking and chasing. They are also highly intelligent and energetic, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Mountain Cur Feists are a relatively small breed, typically weighing between 20-40 pounds and standing between 10-14 inches tall.
Quick Facts
The Mountain Cur Feist is a breed that originated in the United States, specifically in the Appalachian Mountains. They are a small to medium-sized dog.
This breed is part of the Terrier group, which is known for their energetic and alert nature. Their short, smooth coat comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brindle, and tricolor.
On average, a Mountain Cur Feist can live for 12-14 years. With proper care, they can be a long-lasting companion.
Health Needs
Mountain cur feists are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues.
Hip dysplasia is a common problem in mountain cur feists, where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort as the dog ages. This can result in lameness, stiffness, and arthritis.
Elbow dysplasia is another orthopedic condition that affects mountain cur feists, primarily in large and fast-growing breeds. It involves a malformation of the elbow joint, leading to pain, lameness, and reduced joint flexibility.
Allergic dermatitis is a skin condition caused by a dog's allergic reaction to environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or certain plants. Symptoms include itching, redness, skin inflammation, and in some cases, hair loss.
Allergies can also be triggered by certain food elements, such as proteins like chicken or grains. Symptoms can include skin issues, digestive problems, and ear infections.
Regular nail trimming, ear checks, and dental care are essential for maintaining your mountain cur feist's overall health. Brushing their teeth a few times a week can help promote good dental health.
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They are very energetic dogs that require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. A minimum of one hour of exercise per day is recommended, but ideally, they should have several hours of exercise each day.
Here are some potential health issues to be aware of:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Allergic dermatitis
- Allergies to certain food elements
Overview
Mountain Feists are small to medium-sized terriers that originated in the Appalachian Mountains. They're known for their spirited and intelligent nature.
Their compact yet sturdy build allows them to navigate challenging landscapes with ease. They're versatile canines that were originally bred as hunting companions.
Mountain Feists have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brindle, and tricolor. They're visually appealing companions that exude a lively and alert demeanor.
Their keen senses, boundless energy, and unwavering determination made them invaluable partners for early American hunters. They're generally healthy, but may be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye problems.
Here are the six different color variations of Feists:
- Red & white
- Red brindle
- Black
- Black & tan
- Blue & white
- Black, tan & white
Dog Characteristics
The Mountain Cur Feist is a versatile breed with some key characteristics that make them a great companion. They are generally small- to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 10 and 30 pounds.
Their size can vary, with some Feists reaching up to 22 inches in height. Feists come in a variety of colors, including red & white, red brindle, black, black & tan, blue & white, and black, tan & white.
Here are the different color variations of the Feist breed:
Dog Breed Characteristics
Feists are generally small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 10-35 pounds. They come in a variety of colors, including red & white, red brindle, black, black & tan, blue & white, and black, tan & white.
One of the Feist varieties, the Mountain Feist, is specifically mentioned as being small- to medium-sized dogs. They stand between 10 and 22 inches tall.
Feists have a short coat, with some varieties having a more wiry or smooth texture. Wally, a Feist mentioned in the article, has a short coat and weighs 38 pounds.
Here are the six different color variations of Feists:
- Red & white
- Red brindle
- Black
- Black & tan
- Blue & white
- Black, tan & white
Personality
Mountain Feists are incredibly friendly and loving towards their families, but they can be a bit wary of strangers.
They're true hunting dogs at heart, which means they may chase and even kill small animals like squirrels when outside.
Early training and socialization are key to bringing out the best in your dog, as they can be a bit stubborn.
They make great watchdogs, but it's essential to remember that they're loving with their families and may not always come immediately when called, especially if they're focused on prey.
Mountain Feists need plenty of exercise and stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to trouble.
In households with small animals, it's best to avoid adding a Mountain Feist, as they may view them as prey.
Exercise and Training
A mountain cur feist needs at least one hour of physical exercise per day, but two hours are better, especially if they're active in the mornings and late afternoons like Wally.
You'll want to incorporate activities like backpack walks, bike rides, and agility training into their daily routine to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Playing games with them and providing them with appropriate dog toys is also essential to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Here are some activities you can consider for your mountain cur feist:
- Backpack walks and hikes
- Bike rides
- Agility
- Nose work
- Hunting
They'll thrive on mental stimulation, so be sure to practice tricks and play games like "find me" to challenge their minds and reward them with verbal praise and tasty treats.
Exercise
Feist dogs are active and love to be outdoors, so be prepared to take them on long walks and hikes. They can adjust to living in an apartment, but a house with a yard is ideal.
One hour of physical exercise per day is a good starting point, but two hours are even better. They're most active in the mornings and late afternoons, so plan your walks and bike rides accordingly.
Feist dogs need mental stimulation too, so play games with them and provide dog toys. If they get bored, they can become destructive, so make sure to challenge them with food puzzles or games.
Some jobs that Feist dogs can perform include backpack walks, bike rides, agility, nose work, and hunting. You can also try trick training and play games like "find me" to mentally stimulate them.
Here are some basic obedience commands that Feist dogs should know:
- sit
- down
- stay
- leave it
- come
A tired Feist is a happy Feist, so make sure to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to tire them out.
Training
Training a Kemmer Feist is relatively easy, especially if you use positive reinforcement methods. Their high intelligence allows them to pick up tricks quickly.
To start, teaching basic commands like "leave it" and "sit-stay" is a great place to begin. I always put my dog into a "sit-stay" while preparing their meal, and then ask them to "leave it" once the bowl is placed next to them.
You can also incorporate commands like "sit" and "down" into your daily routine, even when walking your dog. This adds a level of difficulty, as there are many distractions outside, like other people and dogs.
Practicing basic obedience commands in public places like pet stores or shopping centers can also be helpful. My dog and I enjoy walking down aisles and practicing "sit" and "down" commands in different locations.
Grooming and Health
Mountain Cur Feists are known for being low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They have short, smooth coats that shed an average amount year-round.
They don't need haircuts, but occasional brushing to remove loose hair will be helpful. You should also trim their nails every 3 to 4 weeks and brush their teeth two to three times a week.
Their floppy ears need cleaning at least once a week, and they should only be bathed as needed, or every few months, as they can have sensitive skin.
Here are some grooming tips to keep in mind:
Mountain Cur Feists are relatively healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as allergies.
Feeding
Feeding your Mountain Feist requires careful consideration of their high energy levels.
An ideal Mountain Feist diet should be formulated for a small-to-medium breed.
You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Mountain Feist's diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs.
Their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years.
Coat Color and Grooming
The Feist's coat is a beautiful thing! They come in every color and combination imaginable, including black, white, gray, silver, blue, tan, red, brown, cream, sable, brindle, pied, Isabella, and fawn.
Mountain Feists have a short and smooth coat that sheds an average amount, year-round. They don't need haircuts, but occasional brushing to remove loose hair will be helpful.
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Feists are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they do prefer cooler weather. If it's snowing or very cold, you may need to put a jacket on your Feist.
Kemmer Feists have a similar coat to Mountain Feists, requiring only a quick brushing once or twice a week. They need a bath about once a month, or when absolutely necessary.
Here are the 6 different color variations of the Feist breed:
Feists are average shedders, but they do well with a few brushings per week. Regular grooming will help keep their coat looking its best and prevent matting.
Health and Conditions
Mountain Feists are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem, where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort.
Hip dysplasia can result in lameness, stiffness, and arthritis as the dog ages. Treatment may involve medications, physical therapy, or surgery to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Elbow dysplasia is another orthopedic condition that affects dogs, primarily in large and fast-growing breeds. It involves a malformation of the elbow joint, leading to pain, lameness, and reduced joint flexibility.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage these conditions. For example, feeding a raw diet rich in glucosamine and chondroitin can help keep joints healthy.
Allergic dermatitis is a skin condition caused by a dog's allergic reaction to environmental allergens. Symptoms include itching, redness, skin inflammation, and hair loss.
Food allergies in dogs occur when they develop sensitivities to specific ingredients in their diet. Symptoms can include skin issues, digestive problems, and ear infections.
By identifying and eliminating allergenic ingredients from their diet, you can help manage food allergies in your Feist. This may involve a trial-and-error process with hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets.
Here are some potential health issues to be aware of in Mountain Feists:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Allergic dermatitis
- Food allergies
Hunting and Interactions
Feist dogs are naturally inclined to hunt small prey, so they may not get along with smaller pets like cats and guinea pigs unless they were raised together from puppyhood.
It's essential to supervise interactions between your Feist dog and smaller pets to ensure everyone's safety.
Feist dogs generally don't get along with smaller pets, but with proper introduction and supervision, it's possible to introduce them to each other.
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Treeing
Treeing is a term that refers to a dog's ability to locate and chase small game, such as squirrels and raccoons.
Treeing Feists are known for their exceptional treeing ability, which is a key characteristic of this breed.
These dogs are small, weighing between 10-35 lb, and feature short ears, long and keen muzzles, and strong legs.
Their intelligence and loving personalities make them a great combination dog for hunting and family life.
However, some Treeing Feists may become overly nervous when introduced to unfamiliar people, dogs, or surroundings.
Animal Interactions
Feist dogs generally don't get along with smaller pets like cats and guinea pigs, unless they were raised together from puppyhood.
Supervising interactions between your Feist dog and smaller pets is crucial, especially if they're not familiar with each other.
Similarities and Examples
The Mountain Cur Feist is part of a larger family of breeds that share similar characteristics. They're known for their squirrel-chasing abilities, with the Mountain Cur being particularly skilled at tracking by scent.
If you're looking for other breeds that share these traits, consider the Cajun Squirrel Dog, a mix of Feists and Mountain Curs with a natural treeing ability. They weigh between 20-35 lb and have a short coat that's either red, yellow, white and red or brindle.
Other examples of breeds that are similar to the Mountain Cur Feist include the Cur/Feist/JRT mix, which is known for its energetic and playful nature. This breed is often used for hunting and training purposes.
Similar Breeds
The Feist breed has some close relatives in the world of hunting dogs. Mountain Curs are known to be just as crazy for squirrels as Feists, but they track their prey by scent only.
One breed that combines the best of both worlds is the medium-sized Cajun Squirrel Dog. It's a mix of Feists and Mountain Curs with a natural treeing ability.
The Cajun Squirrel Dog weighs between 20-35 lb and has a short coat that's either red, yellow, white and red, or brindle. This unique coat pattern is a distinguishing feature of the breed.
You can also look into the Cur/Feist/JRT mix, which is a cross between a Cur, a Feist, and a Jack Russell Terrier. This mix is often seen in hunting dog videos, and can be quite entertaining to watch.
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See More Examples
If you're looking for more examples of the Mountain Feist, you'll find them in various categories. The Mountain Feist is often classified as a type of hunting dog.
Hunting dogs like the Mountain Feist are bred for their ability to track and chase small game. Their energetic and agile nature makes them well-suited for this task.
Cur dogs, a category that the Mountain Feist falls under, are known for their independence and strong prey drive. This means they can be quite stubborn at times, but it also makes them excellent hunting companions.
Feist types, including the Mountain Feist, are typically small to medium-sized dogs with a strong instinct to chase and catch small game. They're often used for hunting squirrels and other small animals.
If you're interested in learning more about the different types of game dogs, the Mountain Feist is definitely worth considering. Their compact size and energetic nature make them well-suited for hunting in tight spaces.
Here are some examples of Mountain Feist types:
- Kemmer Stock Mountain Curs
- Other Feist types
Understanding dog behavior is key to getting along with your Mountain Feist. By recognizing their natural instincts and tendencies, you can better meet their needs and build a strong bond with your dog.
Ownership and Compatibility
Kemmer Feists are social dogs that get along well with other pets, especially other dogs, as long as they're well-socialized.
They have a high prey drive, so it's essential to supervise interactions with smaller animals to ensure everyone's safety.
Feist dogs are intelligent and easy to train, but they require short training sessions that end on a positive note to keep them engaged and prevent problem behaviors.
Feists are great family dogs, perfect for families with children of all ages, as long as kids are taught to be respectful and gentle with them.
Pet Compatibility
Kemmer Feists generally get along well with other pets, especially other dogs, but it's essential to socialize them properly to prevent any issues.
Their high prey drive makes them less suitable for households with smaller animals, so it's crucial to consider this when introducing new pets to your family.
Feist dogs thrive when they have a job to do, which means they need physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy.
They're intelligent and relatively easy to train, but short training sessions with a positive ending are best to avoid overwhelming them.
Kemmer Feists are great family dogs, perfect for families with children of all ages, as long as the kids are taught to be gentle and respectful.
However, it's essential to supervise interactions between children and dogs, especially when it comes to playtime.
Mountain Feists are generally good with children, but their strong prey drive means they're not the best fit for households with small animals, like guinea pigs or hamsters.
They can get along well with other dogs of equal or larger size, and socializing them is key to a harmonious household.
Always supervise interactions between dogs and young children, and teach your child how to approach and touch dogs safely.
Do You Have a Dog?
If you have a Feist dog or know someone who does, you might notice they look similar to a potcake dog with the same features.
Feists are known for their high energy levels, with one owner stating her dog has two speeds: high energy or sleeping.
They're also ridiculously smart, with one owner's dog figuring out that if she's angry with him, he gives her his paw.
Feists are great with cats, but one owner was unsure if she would trust her dog past that, so it's essential to socialize them properly.
They're expressive dogs, with one owner's dog making a noise when he yawns that makes her laugh.
Feists are loyal to their families, with one owner stating her breeder raved about their family loyalty and fun personality.
If you're considering getting a Feist, be prepared for a lot of energy and activity, as one owner noted that her dog is a whole lot of crazy in the cooler weather.
Feists can grow to be around 70-75 pounds, making them a medium to large breed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Mountain Feist a good family dog?
Yes, a Mountain Feist can make a wonderful family dog, as they bond strongly with their family and thrive on interaction. However, they require regular attention and may not be suitable for households with long work hours or frequent absences.
Are mountain Feists rare?
Yes, pure-bred Mountain Feists are a rare breed, but their mixes with other breeds like Mountain Curs, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors may be more readily available.
What is a Mountain Feist mixed with?
A Mountain Feist is a cross between a Jack Russell Terrier and other treeing breeds, such as the Treeing Walker Hound. This unique mix of bloodlines gives the Mountain Feist its distinctive characteristics.
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