The Feist’s name was Skip, and the breed became more popular due to their connection with Roosevelt. The Mountain Feist was recognized by the United Kennel Club on February 1, 2015. Theodore Roosevelt went hunting with a Feist.
Today’s Mountain Feist is the result of generations of breeding for performance and is still primarily used to hunt squirrel, although they are also used to hunt raccoon, rabbits and more.
Like the Cur breeds, the Feist breeds were developed in the rural South by breeders who needed low-maintenance dogs to hunt small game and to eliminate vermin, Feist were often the result of crosses between hunting hounds and terriers. The word “feist” is an ancient one referring to a small, often noisy dog. Mainly used as a squirrel dog, the Mountain Feist is also good at hunting raccoons and tracking larger game. Both of these breeds, known for their intelligence, agility, and spirit, come together to form a mix that boasts unique characteristics and a rich heritage. Feist are very vocal dogs, communicating with growls, bays and barks.They are very protective around the people they know best. The Border Collie Feist Mix is a captivating blend of two distinctive breeds: the Border Collie and the Mountain Feist. Mountain Feists are curious, intelligent, alert and physically active dogs which are suited for hunting and as companion dogs. They have paws suited for climbing because of their strong hind legs and sharp curved nails. They have long pointy ears that stand upwards and button ears that fold over. They have a variety of colors but are mainly a light brown, black, and white. The Mountain Feist stand about 35 to 45 cm (14 to 18 inches) high.