Harrier

Harehound, Heirer

Purpose

trailing game

Breed Type : Pure Breeds

Breed Size: Medium

The Harrier is frequently mistaken for either a small English Foxhound or a larger Beagle. However, it is essential to understand that the Harrier is a distinct breed, historically bred as a scenthound for hunting foxes and hares. This breed is relatively rare and is believed to have its roots dating back to 1066 AD. Renowned for its loyalty, the Harrier exemplifies the ideal hound. It is an active dog with a playful nature and a strong tendency to vocalize. The Harrier expresses itself through a range of sounds, including moans, groans, mumbles, and grumbles, and, true to its hound heritage, it can also emit the characteristic loud bay associated with its breed.

Breed Origin

The Harrier is thought to have roots that date back to the medieval era, particularly around the time of the Norman conquest of England in 1066. During this period, dogs resembling the Harrier were brought in to aid in hunting hares. The earliest documented pack of Harriers in England, known as the Penistone pack, was established in 1260 and maintained its lineage for at least five centuries. Unlike Foxhounds, which are hunted on horseback, Harriers are pursued on foot by their handlers. Some specialists contend that the Harrier is not a direct descendant of the Foxhound; rather, it may have originated from a blend of Greyhounds and the now-extinct Southern Hound. Other hypotheses propose that the breed could have evolved from a mix of Bloodhounds, Talbot Hounds, and possibly Basset Hounds, or even from crossing Foxhounds with Fox Terriers and Greyhounds. Regardless of the ambiguity surrounding its lineage, the Harrier is undoubtedly a genuine hound, committed to its purpose. Acknowledged as one of the oldest breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Harrier gained official recognition in 1885. In 1992, the Harrier Club of America was founded to promote the breed and increase its visibility. Today, the Harrier is classified as a rare breed, ranking 165th in popularity among AKC-registered breeds. In terms of size, the Harrier is smaller than a Foxhound but larger than a Beagle. It continues to be employed for hare hunting in both the UK and the US, as well as in fox hunts. This requires the Harrier to embody all the essential characteristics of a scent hound and to be robustly built, enabling it to traverse challenging terrains without quickly tiring.

Breed Appearance

The Harrier is distinguished by its short, dense coat that has a coarse texture. This coat should exhibit a shiny finish, steering clear of any lackluster appearance. The roughness of the fur is crucial for the Harrier's ability to traverse different terrains while pursuing hares or foxes, as it minimizes the potential obstacles that a longer or silkier coat might present. Moreover, this texture serves as a protective barrier against scratches from underbrush. While the coat is generally suitable for a range of weather conditions, the Harrier is not well-suited for extremely cold climates and should avoid hunting in excessively hot weather. The fur on the ears is softer, and there is a tuft of hair on the underside of the tail that should be slightly thickened rather than bushy. Common color variations include black, white and tan, lemon and white, and red and white. All these colors are acceptable and do not significantly affect a Harrier's performance in conformation shows. However, the black, white, and tan combination is the most commonly photographed, leading many to associate this coloration with the breed.

Care Routine

Caring for a Harrier is quite simple thanks to its short, dense coat. A weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or hound mitt is important; this not only helps spread natural oils across the skin but also removes dead hair. Regular grooming prevents loose fur from accumulating on your clothes, furniture, and floors. Bathing the Harrier is generally not required often; he typically needs a bath only two to three times a year, with additional baths as necessary. Nail care is also essential, requiring trimming every two to three weeks. You can use either nail clippers or a nail grinder to maintain the proper length. Since the Harrier has droopy ears, it’s vital to keep them clean and dry to prevent infections. Furthermore, dental care should be a priority, which includes using a veterinarian-recommended toothpaste and arranging for annual cleanings with a vet.

Behavior & Temperament

The Harrier is a lively and friendly breed, celebrated for its sociable disposition. This dog flourishes with human companionship and generally gets along well with other dogs. As a breed that thrives in packs, the Harrier struggles with loneliness, making a single-dog household less suitable for him. He is quite vocal and will express his needs to his family. However, he can be quite stubborn, often wanting things done his way. To ensure he responds to commands, training should focus on positive reinforcement combined with a firm and consistent method. A secure, robustly fenced yard is also vital, as he has a tendency to wander off in search of small animals. The Harrier requires a job or activity to keep him stimulated; without it, he may resort to mischief. With a talent for problem-solving, he can be quite a challenge for his owners! Additionally, he enjoys digging, so providing an array of toys is essential to keep him occupied.

Play & Exercise

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

2.5 Cups

Daily Activity

90 Minutes

Average Lifespan

11 Years

Origin

1066 AD

Type

Pure Breeds

Size

Medium

Origin Country

United Kingdom

Brush Frequency

Weekly

Coat Texture

Straight

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