Unfortunately, the Mountain Feist is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Italian-Bichons are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Agile
Lovely
Swift
Alert
Spirited

Playful
Agile
Sensitive
Intelligent
Affectionate
Gentle
Companionable
Cheerful
Athletic
Mischievous

Mountain Feists are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Italian-Bichons are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Mountain Feists make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Avoid Italian-Bichons as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Terriers, Scent Hounds

Bichon Frise and Italian Greyhound

17th Century

2000's

Brown
Amber

Brown

Black
Brown

Black

White
Silver
Blue
Fawn
Isabella
Cream
Red
Brown
Gray
Black
Brindle
Sable
Pied

Cream
Fawn
Sable
White

Mountain Feists have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Italian-Bichons have short coats.

A Mountain Feist can have a litter of 10-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Italian-Bichon can have a litter of 2-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Mountain Feists have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Italian-Bichons are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Mountain Feists are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Italian-Bichon breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Urolithiasis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Allergies

Cataracts
Shaker Dog Syndrome

X-Rays
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Urinalysis
Blood Count
Ophthalmologic Examination
Blood Chemistry

Mountain Feists' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Italian-Bichons are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Mountain Feist has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Italian-Bichon has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Mountain Feists require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Italian-Bichons need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Mountain Feists sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Italian-Bichons have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

The Mountain Feist is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Italian-Bichons bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mountain Feist, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Italian-Bichon, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Mountain Feists usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Italian-Bichons usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

The Mountain Feist has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

The Italian-Bichon requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

The average cost of a Mountain Feist is somewhere $0.80 - $1.10 per day.

The average cost of an Italian-Bichon is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

The average per month expenses of a Mountain Feist is between $21 - $28. This makes an average of $252 - $336 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Italian-Bichon is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Mountain Feists are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

The Italian-Bichon is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Mountain Feists are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Italian-Bichons are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Mountain Feists are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Italian-Bichons are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Mountain Feists are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Italian-Bichons are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Mountain Feists are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Italian-Bichons are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.