7 things to know before bringing home a Mountain Feist puppy

If you’re thinking about bringing home a Mountain Feist, here’s what you need to know from someone who's spent plenty of time with active, outdoorsy dogs.

A Classic American Hunter with Heart

The Mountain Feist — also called the Treeing Feist, American Feist, or Mountain Terrier — is a small but mighty breed originally developed for hunting small game like squirrels and rodents in the southern U.S. They're quick, smart, and full of energy, but also incredibly loyal to their families.

Despite their rich history, Mountain Feists aren’t recognized by the AKC, so they’re often overlooked by first-time dog owners. But if you're up for the challenge, they can be one of the most rewarding companions out there.

What It’s Like to Live with a Mountain Feist

Energetic and Outdoorsy
These dogs live for action. Whether it’s a hike, a game of fetch, or just sprinting around the yard, a Mountain Feist needs daily exercise — and lots of it. They're not a good match for couch-potato households. If you’ve got a fenced yard, even better. And yes, they’ll happily go hunting with you if that’s your thing.

Small in Size, Big in Drive
They typically stand 12–18 inches tall and weigh between 10–30 pounds. Don’t let their size fool you — they’re muscular, agile, and fast. You’ll often find them climbing trees or darting through thick brush like pros.

Stubborn but Smart
Training a Mountain Feist can be a bit of a balancing act. They’re sharp and learn quickly, but they’ll lose interest if things get boring. Keep training sessions short, fun, and positive — lots of treats and praise. Harsh corrections won’t get you far. Patience and consistency go a long way.

Friendly, Especially with Their People
Unlike some terriers, Mountain Feists tend to be more easygoing. They’re affectionate, loyal, and great with older kids. They usually get along with other dogs too, but small critters might trigger that prey drive — no surprise, considering their hunting roots.

Care and Grooming: Low Maintenance, Big Payoff

Their short coats don’t need much — just a weekly brushing and the occasional bath if they roll in something gross (which they probably will). They do shed, especially in spring and fall, but it’s manageable.

Don’t forget the basics:

• Brush their teeth daily
• Trim their nails regularly
• Clean their ears weekly (they’re prone to infections)

Grooming time is a great chance to check for any bumps, scratches, or other issues — always better to catch those early.

Health & Nutrition Tips

Mountain Feists are generally healthy and can live 10–15 years. That said, here are a few things to watch for:

• Hip dysplasia (rare but possible)
• Ear infections (keep those ears clean!)
• Bloat — avoid big meals followed by intense play

Feed them a high-quality dog food made for active breeds — about 400 calories a day for an adult. Puppies need more frequent meals (3–4 times daily until about six months). And always chat with your vet if you’re unsure about portion sizes.

Best Homes for a Mountain Feist

These dogs thrive in households that:

• Have a yard or access to outdoor space
• Spend a lot of time outside
• Can commit to daily exercise and mental stimulation
• Don’t leave dogs alone for long hours

They’re not ideal for first-time dog owners or apartment living unless you’re seriously dedicated to getting them out and about every day.

With proper training and early socialization, they can do great with older kids. Just make sure the kids know how to interact respectfully, and always supervise playtime.

Final Thoughts

The Mountain Feist isn’t your average lapdog. They’re working dogs at heart — energetic, clever, and loyal. If you’re an active person or family who loves outdoor adventures and has the time to train and engage your dog, the Mountain Feist could be your perfect match.

They're not for everyone, but in the right home? Total gem.