Feist — breed guide

A family of southern US squirrel dogs rather than a single breed — bred strictly on performance, so size and type vary a lot.

At a glance

Group: terrier
Size: Small
Weight: 5–14 kg (11–31 lb)
Life span: 10–15 years
Coat: Short and smooth

Living with a Feist

Very high energy — built for work and long days out.
Almost no grooming.
Light shedding.
Quick to learn.
Vocal when there is a reason.
Good with children.
Usually fine with a familiar dog; strange dogs need managing.
Not a safe bet with cats — this is prey drive rather than a training problem.
Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
Better with previous experience behind you.
Handles warm weather well.
Average cold tolerance.

Temperament

Gritty · Quick · Friendly · Treeing-mad

Health to watch

Patellar luxation
Allergies
Hip dysplasia

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Questions people ask

Is a Feist good with kids?

Generally yes. Feists are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.

Is a Feist good with cats?

Usually not. This is prey drive rather than a training problem — a cat that runs can trigger it in a dog that is otherwise impeccably behaved.

How much exercise does a Feist need?

Hours — this breed needs a job or a long day out.

Can a Feist handle hot weather?

It copes well with warm days.

Leash Life keeps a Feist's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.