Read About Harrier

Harriers are sturdy little hunting dogs -- intelligent, observant, and friendly. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium-Large Dog

2. Weight:

   40-60 lbs

3. Coat:

   Short, very sleek, quite dense.

4. Shedding:

   Low-shedding, but needs regular brushing.

5. Temperament:

   Gentle, well-mannered dog; scent-hound, however, so the nose can get them into trouble. Happy, personable dogs with a great sense of humor.

6. Obedience:

   If your Foxhound is doing what he loves best -- scenting quarry -- he'll be very good at it. They can be obedient, but are easily distracted by interesting smells.

7. Ease of Training:

   In common with many hounds, the Harrier can be a bit stubborn. Training a reliable recall can be a challenge.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Hounds/1988

2. Size & Weight:

   19-21"; 40-60 lbs

3. Coat:

   Short, very sleek, quite dense.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The Harrier has a lovely rounded head and long, nosy muzzle. Muzzle is ideally the same length as the skull.

5. Body:

   Sturdy, compact, medium-sized, and well-muscled. Long, straight legs are complemented by small, tidy feet.

6. Colors:

   Usually a tri-color of black, tan, and white, but any hound coloration is appropriate.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years

8. Popularity:

   Hounds as a class are not very high on the popularity chart. Harriers are near the very bottom of the popular registered breeds list, ranking just above their virtual twin, the English Foxhound.

9. Habitat:

   Harriers need a great deal of exercise. They're most happy where they can get a good bit of running and sniffing in.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   England, to hunt rabbits

2. Historical Information:

   Developed in England, but some question as to when and how. Rabbit-hunters initially, they are now sometimes used to hunt foxes. Essentially a slightly smaller English Foxhound, they share a startling number of characteristics with that breed.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Gentle, well-mannered dog; scent-hound, however, so the nose can get them into trouble. Happy, personable dogs with a great sense of humor.

2. Behavior:

   Harriers have a "working" demeanor and a "casual" demeanor. Working, highly energized, alert, and dedicated to the chase. Off-duty, the Harrier will be a mellow, sweet personality with a great deal of fun.

3. Habits:

   Harriers are hounds, and will bay and yap sometimes.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Hip dysplasia and epilepsy have been reported in Harriers.

2. Exercise Needs:

   This breed needs extensive exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Minimal, but does need regular grooming and bathing with some extra attention paid to his ears.

4. Travel Needs:

   A well-built, dog-like dog, the Harrier is a good traveler.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Good with other dogs; iffy with prey-like pets; excellent with children

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy. Their easygoing nature will be evident, as will their scenting propensities.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy. Keep in mind that Harriers will hunt as far as their nose leads them, chasing and digging -- be sure their fencing is sturdy and reliable if they are off leash in a back yard.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is not anything that your Harrier can get into, pull out, or chew that is not safe for him.