Harrier

Hare hunting dogs were brought into England in 1066, where they were developed into harriers. The first harriers were noted in 1260. The breed was developed as a scent hound to hunt in packs. As they pursued their quarry of hare, hunters followed them on foot. Harriers made their way to America during the Colonial era. In 1885, the American Kennel Club recognized the harrier as a member of the hound group. Although the breed is still a popular hunting dog in England, it is rare in the United States.

Harriers resemble oversized beagles or undersized English foxhounds. Their build provides them with endurance and stamina to run and hunt for extended periods of time across a diverse range of topography. Harriers stand an average of 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. Their coats are short and may exhibit any colors, including tricolored, white and tan, lemon and white or red and white. Their triangular ears hang downward, and their long tails are carried upright when alert. The Harrier is a medium sized dog and related to the English Foxhound. It is compact and has heavy bones. It has a short, smooth coat that is easily cared for.

Personality

Harriers are friendly and outgoing. They are excellent family dogs that enjoy the companionship of their human family members. They get along with children and other dogs, but other household pets and backyard wildlife may be perceived as prey. The hunting instincts of this scent hound are strong. It is imperative to confine the dog to a securely fenced yard when outdoors. Harriers have boundless energy, and they require plenty of opportunities for daily physical exercise. Harriers make excellent sidekicks for active owners who hunt, hike or jog, and they are skilled participants in lure coursing events. Their exercise needs make them poor candidates for apartment life. Harriers are vocal dogs, and many of them bay in addition to barking. Since they are not territorial and are friendly toward strangers, they are not ideal watchdogs. The harrier is an active, moderately playful dog breed that is calm and friendly with children. It loves to trail, hunt, sniff and exercise and needs daily long walks or vigorous games. It needs to exercise in safe areas because it may be difficult to manage if it picks up a scent. They are reserved with strangers but friendly towards other dogs.

Breed Characteristics

Harrier Build Information

Harriers resemble oversized beagles or undersized English foxhounds. Their build provides them with endurance and stamina to run and hunt for extended periods of time across a diverse range of topography. Harriers stand an average of 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. Their coats are short and may exhibit any colors, including tricolored, white and tan, lemon and white or red and white. Their triangular ears hang downward, and their long tails are carried upright when alert. The Harrier is a medium sized dog and related to the English Foxhound. It is compact and has heavy bones. It has a short, smooth coat that is easily cared for.

Behaviour and Personality

Harriers are friendly and outgoing. They are excellent family dogs that enjoy the companionship of their human family members. They get along with children and other dogs, but other household pets and backyard wildlife may be perceived as prey. The hunting instincts of this scent hound are strong. It is imperative to confine the dog to a securely fenced yard when outdoors. Harriers have boundless energy, and they require plenty of opportunities for daily physical exercise. Harriers make excellent sidekicks for active owners who hunt, hike or jog, and they are skilled participants in lure coursing events. Their exercise needs make them poor candidates for apartment life. Harriers are vocal dogs, and many of them bay in addition to barking. Since they are not territorial and are friendly toward strangers, they are not ideal watchdogs. The harrier is an active, moderately playful dog breed that is calm and friendly with children. It loves to trail, hunt, sniff and exercise and needs daily long walks or vigorous games. It needs to exercise in safe areas because it may be difficult to manage if it picks up a scent. They are reserved with strangers but friendly towards other dogs.

Appearance

Harriers require very little grooming. Using a grooming mitt once a week minimizes shedding by removing the dead hairs from the coat. This process will also redistribute the skin’s natural oils to maintain the coat's healthy luster. Prevent ear infections by inspecting the ears weekly, cleaning them as needed and keeping them dry. Prevent periodontal disease and maintain overall health by brushing the teeth every other day.

Harrier Common Health Conditions

Harriers live average lifespans of 12 to 15 years. Since they have not been overbred, harriers are hardy dogs with very few known health conditions. One problem to be aware of in this breed is hip dysplasia.

Harrier Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

For a friendly, playful and active family companion, consider the harrier. Always ready to engage in physical activity, a harrier makes an ideal hiking buddy and childhood playmate. The harrier originated in England. The harrier is also known as a hare hound. The harrier is a sweet, cheerful and affectionate companion. The harrier stands 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 40 to 60 pounds. Harriers have high energy levels. Harriers require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for a harrier is 12 to 15 years.